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No Civil War souvenirs here

A Hudson couple's mobile sutler store brings doses of reality to re-enactments in the South.

By LOGAN NEILL
Published January 19, 2007

If you ever take up the hobby of Civil War re-enacting, chances are pretty good that you're going to run into Bob and Debra Burnett.

Whether it's a Civil War-period camp stool, a brass cavalry insignia for a Confederate uniform or a leather cartridge box, the Hudson couple stock it in their mobile sutler store known as Loafer's Glory.

The Burnetts have spent the better part of the past 18 years as merchants of Civil War-period goods and supplies. On any given weekend from spring through fall you're likely to find the couple at one of dozens of re-enactments around the South. Dressed in period clothing, they smile and warmly greet visitors to their 1,000-square-foot canvas tent.

"We love everything about it - the traveling, the people - it's our life," said Bob Burnett, 58. In addition to running the mercantile, the retired contractor coordinates the other concession businesses at the Brooksville Raid Festival's Sutlers Row.

Burnett considers himself something of a student of the Civil War. Ever since childhood, he has been fascinated by the rich history and lore that surrounds the war's great battles and the men who fought them. After attending his first battle re-enactment about two decades ago, he decided it was a hobby custom made for him.

"In the early days it could be difficult finding equipment," Burnett said. "A lot of people made their own. If you didn't have those skills, you had to search for things like uniforms, muskets and tents."

Burnett started the business by making and selling period replicas of desks, stools and stands that were commonly found in officers' quarters. Before long, it expanded to wool uniforms, leather accessories, replica weapons and period civilian clothing.

Burnett is quick to point out that Loafer's Glory isn't a souvenir store. By selling only high-quality, handmade items, he and his wife have garnered a solid reputation among Civil War re-enactors.

At the Burnetts' store, wool uniform trousers sell for about $70. A double-breasted coat goes for about $225. And a replica musket can fetch upwards of $500. All of which makes outfitting a re-enactor far from cheap.

Burnett rationalizes that customers know they are getting what they pay for.

"There are plenty of people out there that are happy to sell you imported junk that's cheap but won't last long," Burnett said. "I couldn't do it. I have to be able to look those people in the eye next week."

For the Burnetts, one of the most endearing aspects of Civil War re-enacting has been the growing numbers of families involved in the hobby, either as participants or spectators.

"I love seeing the kids come out," he said. "It's an exciting way to discover and appreciate history. Hopefully, it will encourage them to keep it alive."

Logan Neill can be reached at lneill@sptimes.com or 352 848-1435.

[Last modified January 18, 2007, 23:43:42]