Roman Camp Life

One of the most exciting parts of fielding with LEGXXII PR is the camp life.  After the battles, demonstrations and marching is over, we retire to our camp.  So what is this like and what does one do there?

Here are some basic areas of camp life:
Food – Roman food is great.  Many of our members have previously done American Civil War or Revolutionary War reenacting.  Frankly, the food at these events is terrible.  Hard tack and flour.  At Roman events, we eat as the Roman army did – with a great variety of good foods.  We grind our own flour, make our bread, and eat as basic staples, dates, figs, olives, fruit, fish, pork, goat, and beef.  The Roman soldier was given wine to drink daily and also enjoyed beer.


Camping – The soldiers slept in tents made of leather.  We make our own tents (from 70 goat hides for each tent!).  The tent is large enough for a squad of 8 men to sleep in.  We lie on sheep and deer hides and cover with blankets.  Our effort is to be as authentic as we can, but modern hygiene is observed and soldiers may keep a small “modern necessities” bag hidden among their belongings.

Camp tables, folding chairs, oil lamps and other normal camp items are present in our camp.  You will not find, pop cans, plastic bags, or modern conveniences.  The goal is to provide each member with as close to the Roman experience as possible.

Daily Life– The camp is run under military discipline.  We are each soldiers with commanding officers and a schedule for the day.  The days start with Roman style calisthenics (exercises designed to improve the strength and abilities of the soldier), practice with the sword, shield and spear, drilling with the unit, meals, and of course free time.

Camaraderie – The greatest thing about Roman camp life is the camaraderie.  Romans loved to drink, socialize and play games.  Games of chance, dice and action were well appreciated.  LEGXXII PR is committed to making each event an enjoyable time for all.

Personal Gear (beyond armor.weapons, clothing) – Each soldier carried a “T” shaped stick for marching.  On this stick, he slung his leather satchel (which carried money, toilet sponge, spoon and eating bowl, dice for gaming and any personal icons from home.).  He also had a bag with his foul weather cloak inside.  From the pole also hung his patera (cook pan) and a net bag for ground flour to make bread.  Aside from this pole, he carried an implement for construction or digging (either an axe, shovel, or pick).  The Roman soldier, besides being able to fight, also built roads and buildings along the way.  Many times he carried a sudae (4’ wooden stake with both ends sharpened).  These sudae were used when the army came to a stop for the night and a hasty defensive perimeter had to be constructed.  All this he carried along with his armor, shield and spear.