Our Manifesto!
The Fort Boise Garrison Living History Association (FBG) is an historical research-based living history organization dedicated to preserving the military history of Fort Boise and the region it served. We preserve this history through a Facebook page and living history events that include living history encampments, historical displays, parades, tours of Fort Boise, and public speaking venues.
The FBG defines itself as a military living history organization where historical accuracy is paramount. We represent fighting forces of the Civil War, Indian Wars and Spanish American War eras. One may notice that the FBG may appear different in physical appearance, presentation and attitude. Our clothing, accoutrements, and weapons are reproductions that are as close to the originals as possible in both materials and craftsmanship. Our members adhere to written standards regarding these matters. With historical accuracy in mind, members provide their own clothing, accoutrements, and weapons at their own expense. These purchases must be based on research for historical accuracy and must be acquired within a rigid time frame. We do not make concessions with respect to authenticity. We owe it to the old soldiers to portray their life and times as accurately and as authentically as possible. Only by doing that are we the best and most accurate educators and historians possible.
We portray soldiers and civilians from the pages of history and members are expected to research and present portrayals of everyday life of these people. The FBG believes that authenticity is a journey. We are dedicated to continued improvement in our appearance, conduct, attitude and knowledge. We don’t pretend to have finished that journey nor can we hope to get it exactly right, but that is our goal. For us, this is more than a hobby, it is a mission and a sacred trust we have embraced to tell the stories of those we portray as accurately as we can.
Participating in the various FBG impressions may not be for everyone. Our mantra is to present our impressions with as much historical accuracy as possible. We have high standards and expectations and our members enjoy the satisfaction of knowing they are striving to be at the peak of the living history experience. Not only do we educate the general public through our historical accuracy, but fellow members learn from one another as well. If the FBG sounds like what you are looking for, join us.