Steven M. Gardner

BoRIA Director representing Military Societies

Born in Central Falls, Rhode Island, Steve moved to Warwick in 1967 when his father became a police officer and grew up in the Village of Conimicut Point. Steve began participating in re-enactments in 1975 while attending Gorton Jr. High School. He volunteered as a drummer in the Providence Grenadiers, a Rhode Island Militia Unit. After participating in parades and ceremonies with the RI76 Commission, Steve switched from drumming to carrying a musket. From there, Steve joined the Crown Forces – 46th Regiment of Foot out of Foster, Rhode Island.

Steve graduated from Warwick Area Vocational Tech, Tollgate High School, and joined the U.S. Navy where he was a Navigator on a Fast Attack Nuclear Submarine QM3(SS). Steve has Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering degrees and is now retired after a professional career with both Amtrak and General Dynamics.

Over the years, Steve continued to participate as a Redcoat in re-enactment and living history events. Steve has been involved in the planning, creating, advising, facilitating, and directing living history events in many historical locations throughout New England, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Steve’s work includes the tailoring and manufacturing of uniforms and equipment used by the re-enactment community, including hand sewing of uniforms, leather gear, and belting.

Steve is a Board of Trustees member for The British Brigade (BB) and an active member of the Brigade of the American Revolution as a field advisor. In Steve’s spare time, he also paints and illustrates the colorful history of re-enactment hobby.