Why are we called the Vicus? By definition, the Vicus is the settlement that grew up outside a Roman fort. This settlement includes merchant stalls, craftsmen, and all the other sort of people that you would expect in such a place. The inhabitants included both Roman and Romano-British The reason why this name was chosen for our group is that it allows us to present a greater degree of living history to the public. So, there is a greater freedom for what kind of character or craft you would like choose The Vicus prefers to perform at historical sites, usually over a weekend. However, we also have been known to engage in film-work and at museums. We prefer to camp out, which does limit most weekends to the warmer months of the year, but we do hold events at heated halls over the winter. Events can be both for our own entertainment and for a client, such as English Heritage, when our task would be to occupy a site When there are monetary payments involved, we usually try to disperse it back amongst those that attend, but the group does keep some to cover such things as our insurance payment. During the warmer months of the year, we normally camp at events. Some of us have authentic tents or camper vans while others just use normal plastic tents. Sites are usually subdivided so that the authentic campsite, which is the one that everyone sees, is kept separate from the others. This ensures that the public get the most authentic living history experience that we can provide. You'll never have to pay for camping and facilities, such as toilets and water, are always provided. Some of the sites are really lovely too! What do you need to start? Well it's pretty simple really! Imagination, creativity and some enthusiasm. You don't need to be an expert on the history of the period, be able to speak fluent Latin or handle a spear to get the most out of the group. The majority of us learn from others in the Society. You will find that everyone is willing to help you learn so don't be afraid to ask questions even if you think it's really daft! You can either do this by posting on the forum or chatting to people at events. Equipment While it is true that some of the equipment can be expensive to acquire, you can also make it yourself with a little determination. Help will be given so don't panic! The basics that everyone needs, such as clothing, are very cheap to make (or even buy) and little items can be added over the following months and years. Those of us you see trundling about with authentic tents, tools, swords and armour have usually been at it for years! Many of us also pursue some sort of craft, to a greater or lesser degree of ability. These are usually authentic to the period and can be practised on site. Most of us have an idea of what we'd like to do, although the rest of us find that the craft chooses us! Britons vs. Romans We all generally know whom we want to portray before we start, some people are Britons by their very nature! Britain at this period was pretty much of a melting pot, with unconquered tribesmen, a number of legions with their military machinery together with the flotsam and jetsam of the empire that quickly followed a conquest to exploit new markets and ideas. The canvas can be very broad. It must be said it is more expensive to portray certain things, the most obviously expensive being a Roman legionary soldier. Although there are mechanisms to the ease the pain somewhat and we have spare equipment that can be loaned out. Combat We are, at present, the only society in which both Roman soldiers and British warriors can come to blows, competitively, with blunted metal weapons. Re-enactment combat is not real combat and is far safer than your average game of rugby, but it is still the closest that you will come to what it may have been like. You will be taught safety and basic combat rules. We are also the only society that allows ladies to join, and fight, as Roman soldiers (and of course, Britons). Children may fight at 16, with their parents being present and with their consent. Many of the younger children, though, are also armed with wooden swords and shields and often join in weapons practices! A Social Life Re-enactment is a very social hobby; it provides a sense of community that is lacking from much of modern life. The Vicus is very much a family group and our age range tends to be little older than some other periods. Yes, some of us might go out for a pint or two of an evening but most spend their evening talking around the campfire or over an authentic meal. Next Steps Click here for more membership information. There is an annual joining fee, but the membership secretary can be quite flexible if you join part way through the season. What we really need is your signature to enable you to be covered by our insurance. You can also contact us to discuss any concerns or ideas you may have. . If you want to read a report on a new members first event then click here To get you started there are some general, good books on the history of the period click here to look at some.