A sutler is a civilian merchant who sells provisions to an army in the field, in camp, or in quarters. Sutlers sold wares from the back of a wagon or a temporary tent, traveling with an army or to remote military outposts.
The following is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all the possible suppliers of Civil War goods. However, these vendors are known for their solid research and for providing quality, authentic items of clothing and equipment at reasonable prices. Some can be found at almost every event, while others only deal directly with their customers. Be very careful before you buy to ensure items are period correct, unit correct and in good working order. Talk to the unit leadership to make sure what you get meets authenticity standards.
Also, used high-quality items are often found for sale on the Civil War Reenactor Forum and the Authentic Campaigner Forum. Both sites require registration, but joining is free.
Hats and Forage Caps
Uniform Coat (Frock)
Fatigue Blouse (sack coat)
Trousers
Shirts
Shoes
Drawers
Leather Items
Canteens and Tinware
Personal Items
Muskets and Bayonets
Springfield Rifle Musket, either the M1855 or M1861 model. Fall Creek is one of the few vendors of the ArmiSport M1855 Springfield Rifle musket, which is the better of the two affordable models of the weapon the Regulars carried at First Bull Run.
Note: Don't purchase a bayonet unless you have your weapon with you to test the fit. This simple precaution may well save you hours of filing and grinding in your
basement or garage!
Blankets
Haversacks
Shelter Tents
Miscellaneous Items
Eyeglasses:
Re-Enactment Eyewear
1738 East Third Street #346
Williamsport, PA 17701
Forms, Order Books, Etc.: Sullivan Press
P.O. Box 407
3405 Main Street
Morgantown, PA 19543-0407