The Regiment

The 85th Regiment of Infantry of Line is and was a veteran unit, both in the currect re-enactment world as it was in the Grande Armée of Napoleon. The 85th was one of those French units comprised mostly of German and Dutch speaking soldiers. The question: "But you are speaking Dutch?!" always has a quick answer.

However, the 85th is much more than that. It's history begins in the 17th century and the unit is dissolved only in the beginning phases of the Second World War, after France's capitulation. A unit with such a long history is exceptionally well suited to be re-enacted. There is always a story to be told. Though, its history during the Napoleonic period is most riveting. The Napoleonic age has given the unit is honours and earned its place in the history books of French military history. The regiment has acquired the most honours in this period than any other unit.

This is what the members of the 85th are trying to portray. By means of re-enactment our members try to tell this exceptional story to anyone who wants to hear it. Besides this, it is the best way for the re-enactor to experience how it would have been to be sent out into the field by Napoleon.

What is our vision on re-enactment? On the one side is authenticiteit. On the other side it is important to get a good amount of troops into the field. Uniform guidelines and drill are incredibly important, but they do not account to much if there are only a handfull of soldiers marching in a parade. This is why we always try to find a balance, or preferably a combination, between people in the field and authenticity. The 85th encourages its members and others to invite possible new members to come with us and just try it out. We will provide historically correct equipment and uniform parts for you. Women are also more than welcome as soldiers in our ranks!