Midget Roman shoes

[Chlodovicus]

Sutoris,

I clicked on your link for legioxi earlier, and I came across photos of the young man in a military (red anyway) tunic accompanying soldiers in bare feet. That brings up a question for children re-enacting, especially around a camp setting. Is the barefoot boy portraying a particular function with the army? As he is without footwear, is he a slave or servant?

Thanks for the help.

I think part of the question is answered by the horn in the photograph. Although it is neither cornu nor buccina (perhaps a trumpet?), it seems he is portraying a signalist. I thought cornicines were all experienced soldiers and not boys, but I may be mistaken. Would the cornicen have a boy to carry the instrument? That may be a role for a child.

I imagine he could wear whatever shoes are appropriate for the event, but was surprised this boy was marching with the soldiers in bare feet. Just asking.