Educate & Inspire
We share history through exhibits, school presentations, and conversations that make the past more accessible.
Preserving history. Honoring service.
Keeping the Story of the 122nd Alive
Discover the legacy of the 122nd New York Volunteer Infantry through living history, education, and preservation.
Living HistoryPeople. Stories. Perspective.
EducationEngaging every generation.
PreservationProtecting our shared heritage.
History with purpose
More Than Remembering.
Bringing History to Life.
The 122nd New York Volunteers, Inc. is a living history organization dedicated to educating the public and representing the life and times of the original 122nd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment.
Our mission connects the human stories of the American Civil War with the people who can help preserve them today.
Authentic Living History
We strive for accurate uniforms, equipment, drill, and camp life, with continual learning at the heart of our impression.
Protect Our Heritage
We raise awareness of Civil War preservation, including artifacts, battle sites, and the stories they hold.
Explore the 122nd
Discover Our Work
Meet the people, equipment, and experiences
that bring history to life.
The Regiment’s History
Discover the original 122nd New York and the importance of telling its story.
Explore historyUniforms & Equipment
Explore the material culture behind an authentic Union infantry impression.
Explore resourcesThe original regiment
A New York Story.
A Shared American History.
The original 122nd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment, also known as the “Onondagas,” served during the American Civil War.
Our living history work explores the people behind the uniforms: their daily routines, experiences, and relationships. Through careful interpretation, we encourage visitors to ask questions and look beyond the battlefield.
We aim to depict the 122nd New York at local events and provide accurate Federal impressions at other gatherings, guided by uniform and authenticity standards.
Learn. Participate. Preserve.
Step Into History With Us
Interested in living history events, a school presentation, or becoming a member? Start a conversation with our organization.
Details that tell a story
Building an Authentic Impression
Uniforms and equipment help interpret a soldier’s experience. Authenticity also means understanding how those objects were worn, used, and cared for.
- Uniform and equipment standards
- Manual of arms and safe drill practice
- Camp routines and civilian interpretation
- Continued research and shared learning
Prospective members should discuss requirements with the group before purchasing equipment.
A glimpse into living history
People, Places & Everyday Life
A visual introduction to the world we interpret.
Concept illustrations; replace with photographs from the organization’s collection when available.
Keep the story alive
There’s a Place for You in Living History.
Whether your interest is military history, civilian life, education, or preservation, we welcome your curiosity. Contact the organization to ask about membership, presentations, and participation.
Visit the Organization’s Current WebsiteFor current contact and participation information.
Good questions, thoughtful answers
Getting to Know the 122nd
What is living history?
Living history uses researched clothing, equipment, demonstrations, and interpretation to help visitors understand life in an earlier period.
Do I need equipment before joining?
Speak with the organization before making purchases. The group can explain its authenticity standards and help you understand what participation involves.
Is the focus only on military history?
The mission includes an authentic civilian section as well as military interpretation, public education, and preservation.