North-South Skirmish Association

The North-South Skirmish Association (N-SSA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to preserving the history of the American Civil War and promoting competitive shooting sports using firearms from the Civil War era.

History

Established in 1950, the N-SSA aims to commemorate the men who fought on both sides during the Civil War. The association is headquartered in Virginia and has a strong presence in the eastern United States, with activities extending across the Midwest and Northeast.

Organization

The N-SSA is structured around team-based participation rather than individual competition. Members belong to one of thirteen regions, each with approximately ten to fifteen teams. These regions organize annual regional championships, contributing to the national events held twice a year at Fort Shenandoah in Virginia.

Activities

Skirmish Competitions

N-SSA matches, known as skirmishes, focus on the accurate shooting of Civil War-era firearms, including muskets, carbines, revolvers, and artillery pieces. Unlike traditional Civil War reenactments, these events involve live firing at targets such as paper bullseyes, clay pigeons, ceramic tiles, and clay flower pots.

• Team Competitions: The core competition involves eight-man musket teams that shoot at breakable targets in timed events. The team completing the task in the shortest time wins.

• Individual Competitions: Members also participate in individual events, often against paper targets, with options for both experienced and novice shooters.

Living History and Education

In addition to shooting competitions, the N-SSA encourages participants to engage in living history and educational activities. This includes wearing authentic Civil War-era uniforms and participating in family-friendly events like BB gun matches for children and historical clothing contests for all ages.

Firearms and Ammunition

Competitors use both original Civil War-era firearms and approved reproductions. Commonly used firearms include the Remington, Colt, and Rogers & Spencer revolvers, as well as muskets and carbines. All muzzle-loading ammunition is prepared using black powder, with strict safety protocols in place.

Media and Recognition

The N-SSA has been featured on several television programs, including episodes on "American Rifleman Television," "Shooting USA," and "Lock & Load with R. Lee Ermey."

Mission

The N-SSA's mission includes preserving the history of the American Civil War through the active use of period-correct firearms, promoting educational activities, and honoring the efforts of those who fought in the conflict. It also supports the preservation of battlefields and historical artifacts.