Expertise:  I am actively involved in Revolutionary War reenacting (1775-1783). I am currently the Vice President, Quartermaster, Webmaster and Lieutenant in a Pennsylvania Line unit. Living history organizations are one way we can keep the past alive, and instill into our youth what life was like in days long gone. There are several living history organizations out there, from Mideavil Times through World War II. The Civil War and Revolutionary War are two of the most popular. I can answer questions regarding how to get in contact with a living history organization, and what would be involved in getting into the hobby, from the cost of weapons and accoutrements to what you can expect during a weekend event.
I am relatively still a "young pup" in the hobby - 10 years. Many of the more seasoned ones have been in the hobby since the Bicentennial.