The recreated Maryland Loyalists was founded in 1991 and incorporated in 1997 by a local group who wished to recreate an often forgotten part of Maryland's colonial past. The intent was not only to educate people about loyalists, but to also present a balanced history of America's first truly "civil war" and to strongly encourage reliving 18th century history as a fun alternative to just reading about it. We participate in battle reenactments throughout the year and have traveled from Canada to Florida to do so. We take part in very intense living history events at many historical sites including Williamsburg, Virginia. Individuals from our unit go to schools and civic group meetings to speak about many varied historical subjects. The Loyalists have been involved in historical films for broadcast and for National Park visitor centers and have even done a commercial for television.

As an Infantry Unit of the period, we wear recreated uniforms of a British Line unit. We can also field in civilian clothes of the early part of the war. Each member of the Maryland Loyalists owns their own equipment necessary to provide food and shelter in the field. The unit owns some equipment of its own including a stand of Regimental Colours, a bell of arms (a tent to store muskets) and a dining fly. We also own a musket, uniform and equipment for use by new recruits while they acquire their own. The firearms that we use are historic reproductions of the weapons used in the war and are fully capable of firing live ammunition. Many of our members use these reproductions to compete in shooting matches at events all over the country. The unit has a music section (fife and drum) and campfollowers, which includes: wives, children and civilians that often accompanied the army in the field.

If you are interested in joining us, membership is open to anyone. Junior members, however, must have a participating adult parent or guardian accompanying them to events. Members are required to comply with certain standards of clothing and equipment, and our veterans will be glad to help you select acceptable reproductions. Generally, one year is allowed for new members to equip themselves. You will receive all the necessary training in the manual of arms and the marching drill. No previous military experience is necessary however the ability to tell left from right is helpful. If you would like to step back in time and join the British Army on the battlefield, encamp at historic sties throughout the thirteen American Colonies and be a part of a very rewarding hobby, take the King’s shilling and join us.

In service to the King,
We remain your Humble & Obedient Servants,

Capt Bruce McNeal, Field Commander
Jean Leatherwood, President
Maryland Loyalist Battalion, Inc.

Photograph by Grace E. McNeal.
This page last edited on February 18, 2007.