Les B: A "Farb" is someone deemed not to be "Authentic' in their presentation at a Civil War re-enactment. It is a term most likely bandied about by self-styled "authentic" re-enactors. It is considered an offensive term. Having said that, I have seen documentation of sutlers during the Civil War who specialized in renting instruments such as guitars to soldiers while they were in camp or garrison for extended times. The problem is that many of these so called authentics use authenticity as a power play. As a re-enactor, i got into it for the comradeship and the love of history. By the same token, I'm not going to get dysentery or smell like three day old pole cat. i don't want real minie flying my way. Troll; I don't know what events you've done but you can park it at my campfire anytime (12th US Co. A, USV) Yes, I sleep in an A-tent but I have done the bedroll thing. Yes I carry a Yamaha classical guitar. The case and tuner stay in my tent under a gray wool blanket. Keep in mind that the soldiers in this country haven't changed a lot in 140 years. They would have killed to sleep in a barn so the tent thing is a bit of a non-issue. You don't like my impression? Offer constructive advice. If you can't do that, leave me be. I don't need a ration of bovine effluvia from anyone when I'm out to relax. This is after all a hobby. If you want to jaw, stop by. I haven't turned anyone away from my fire yet or failed to offer them a cup of coffee. I try to play period music when I'm there. I include "I'm a Good Old Rebel" and "Tom Dooley" even though they are not strictly Civil War songs. Both were written shortly after the war but I want to include a well balanced repertoire that gives an idea of the conflicting emotion that the war caused. I'd love to play an authentic instrument but many of us just don't have that kind of money. In closing, I don't have anything against campaign style reenactors (Authentics although i understand the new term is progressive) I do have a big jones about people who deem it their right under the guise of authenticity to walk all over everyone they deem farbs. Kindest reguards to all, Neil There is debate as to whether or not uniforms had hand sewn button holes.