In 1572, war loomed large over the Kingdom of England. Queen Elizabeth I set in motion a plan to form militia units in every province of England, including the environs of the City of London. Called the Trayned Bandes, this organization was comprised of the men of the counties and the towns therein, who mustered periodically for training in the art of war.
The Blewe Regiment are a group of living historians which represents one of those Trayned Bandes as well as life in London in 1642, when soldiers began choosing sides and taking the field in favour of either Parliament or King Charles I. With members in PA, NJ, VA, DE and MD, The Regiment travels the Mid-Atlantic states with its display of English Civil War-era clothing and artifacts, educating young and old alike in the folkways and history of mid-17th-century England.
The Blewe Regiment is a very new group, founded in March, 2004. The Regiment has members which portray not only military life, but aspects from all walks of life in the period. One member is a brewer, another a talented seamstress. One is a damn fine cook, and another a gun smith. Musicians are members, and often we dance 17th-century dances to 17th-century tunes.
As you can see, we only drill with pike and musket when we have to, just like the original Blewe Regiment. You see, muster day for the Trayned Bandes was also a holiday for the entire family, giving a chance to meet and gossip with the neighbours, have a pint or two, and generally have a good time. This is what we try to portray, giving a pleasant break from the smoke and fire of the battlefield.
That doesn't mean we never take up arms! On the contrary, we field a unit of shot (muskets) whenever we get the chance and inclination. The Blewe Regiment is, after all, a Trayned Bande of the Cittie of London, and has a proud tradition of service.