To “do” living history you must create a “history” to interpret. This history will be determined a great deal by the event you are participating in and the environment you have available to you, but even more so by your impression. Your clothes, props, and even your activities at events are dictated by your impression. Some events may require an impression specific to a time and place; however, the majority of events in Texas are not place and time specific, so a general impression will do for most Texas events.

Developing an impression does not mean exclusively participating in first person activities. An impression can facilitate public interaction and gives you a focal point from which to answer questions from the public, whether it is in first or third person.

Whether you decide to do first or third person, you will need to research your impression. You will need a basic understanding of the world and Texas of the mid-1800s—what your impression would and would not know, what they would experience and understand, their beliefs and attitudes. Other pages on this site will help you with your research. You do not need to know everything. Don't hesitate to claim ignorance on any appropriate subject; however, when you do impart information, make sure it's accurate.