In line with the Northern Brigade emphasis on non-linear warfare, we will be returning to our ancient practice of the use of whistle signals. First, a disclaimer.

Whistle signals are easily documented. There are at least nine or ten examples of British regulars fighting to whistle signals in the Revolutionary War, and more than half of them are Hat, or Battalion Companies. So, existence being documented, we move on to actual practice. In this case, we have several actual whistle sets, from sources as diverse as Ferguson and Ewald¹. In fact, what we know suggests that EVERY UNIT had its own signals, and no other unit would have been able to understand them.

We will start learning whistle signals, and they will be standardized throughout the Northern Brigade. Please understand that our particular signals are MADE UP. They are correct in spirit and allow us to be authentic in that we will be able to maneuver to whistle calls. Since we are reenactors, not professional soldiers, fifteen note, two-tone signals are probably beyond us.

WHEN MOVING

1 Blast – HALT
2 Blasts – MOVE (or move FASTER)
3 Short Blasts – Rally on the whistle

1 Short, 1 Long blast – RETIRE (Think Re – TIIIIRE)
Short blasts, over and over – CEASE FIRE

WHEN HALTED and FORMED

3 Long Blasts – MAKE READY (Think MAKE READ-Y)
2 Long Blasts – PRESENT (Think PRE-SENT)
1 Short Blast – FIRE

If the NCO or officer is judicious in using his voice and hands, these signals will cover a great deal. Of course, there is room for confusion. So, for instance, I recommend the words “Firing by Whistle!” be called out, to prevent the three whistle blasts leading to everyone running in to rally on the whistle blower!

1. Ewald, Johann von. Diary of the American War: A Hessian Journal. Joseph P. Tustin, ed. and trans. (New Haven, Ct., 1979).

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