GUIDE TO IMPRESSIONS

An "impression" is a portrayal of an historical figure, identifiable or anonymous, by recreating the dress, character and environment as it would have been at the time. Creating an accurate impression can take a great deal of study and research. Due to the age and scarcity of World War I militaria, reproduction uniforms and equipment are recommended, especially for field excursions.

The MGWLHA is compiling a library of indispensible reference books, internet resources and vendors to assist you with your impression. In time, we hope to expand this resource into an interactive, visual encyclopedia of World War I impressions.

A NOTE ON AUTHENTICITY

Of course, "uniform" is a loose term on a battlefield. Equipment that was part of the standard uniform of every combat soldier was lost or abandoned, then replaced with looted, repaired and improvised gear. Ernst Jünger was shot while wearing a British greatcoat.

That said, events held at the National World War I Museum are under the Museum's guidelines for authenticity and accuracy. Participants in Museum events must pass inspection by Museum representatives for historical accuracy and authenticity.

The MGWLHA hosts and supports numerous events throughout the year with a stronger allowance for individual expression. Event hosts set their own authenticity ratings, and we try to publish those on this site with our event announcements.

RESEARCH AND RESOURCES

This page is in its beginning stages, so we will start with a few basic categories. Feel free to contact us if you know of something to include.

GENERAL HISTORIES
Narratives, histories, memoirs, collections

Books

Web Resources

CENTRAL POWERS
Germany, Austria-Hungary, Turkey, etc.

Books

Web Resources

 

ALLIED POWERS
France, Britain, Russia, Serbia, America, Italy, etc.