About Us
Founded in 1977, we are one of the UK’s largest French Napoleonic reenactment groups, portraying the 21ème Régiment d’Infanterie de Ligne.
The 21ème Régiment d’Infanterie de Ligne
ABOUT THE 21E
The 21ème Régiment d’Infanterie de Ligne is a UK-based Napoleonic re-enactment society with an active US contingent on the East Coast. Together, we portray the soldiers of Napoleon’s Grande Armée through historically informed living history displays, battlefield re-enactments, drill demonstrations, and educational public events.
We attend events across England, Wales, and mainland Europe, regularly taking part in major international commemorations alongside fellow Napoleonic groups from across the continent.
Alongside re-enactment, the 21ème has also contributed to film and television productions, providing extras and historical support for projects including Vanity Fair (1998), Weekend Warriors (2015), and Vanity Fair (2018).
Recently, the 21ème took part in an episode of Surviving History, showcasing the uniform, tactics, and daily life of a French fusilier during the Napoleonic Wars.
Our History
ABOUT THE 21E
The 21ème was originally formed in 1977 by a small group of British enthusiasts passionate about the Napoleonic Wars and French military history. Over the decades, the regiment has continued to evolve, constantly refining its portrayal as new historical research and source material become available.
In 2018, the regiment officially affiliated with the Napoleonic Association, becoming part of the Association’s French Brigade. Working closely with fellow French units in the UK and abroad, we continue to promote co-operation, authenticity, and continual improvement both on and off the battlefield.
Our Approach to Re-enactment
Historical authenticity remains at the heart of what we do. We are constantly researching and improving every aspect of our portrayal while ensuring the hobby remains enjoyable, accessible, and rewarding for our members.
Uniform & Equipment
Research into the uniforms and equipment of the French line infantry is always developing. As new information becomes available, we work to improve and update our kit, setting realistic goals each season to continually refine our appearance and accuracy.
Drill & Tactics
We dedicate extensive time to studying original drill manuals and period military practices, particularly the 1791 Règlement concernant l’exercice et les manoeuvres de l’infanterie.
Through regular training, we recreate the movements, formations, and battlefield tactics of the French infantry as accurately as possible, from École du Soldat through to larger battalion manoeuvres alongside allied units across Europe.
Camp Life & Living History
ABOUT THE 21E
Life in camp is just as important to us as battlefield displays. We recreate the daily experiences of the ordinary French soldier through historically inspired activities including inspections, roll calls, parades, pay distribution, and camp routine. These displays help educate the public on the realities of military life during the Napoleonic era beyond combat alone.
