QuartermasterWe feel authenticity and historical accuracy are essential to living history and re-enacting .......... but these begin with YOUR ATTITUDE......... and not just your clothes. Welcome to our virtual bivouac. Drop your knapsack, put your rifle in the stack and join us at the fire, the coffee's brewing.
Here you will find our guide to the standards of dress and material that we expect from the members of Cleburne’s Mess. Its intention is to help you understand our goals and needs. Furthermore, it is meant to help you with choosing any clothing and kit you might purchase in the future. For experienced re-enactors it might help those looking to refine their impression.
However, it is stressed that members of the unit always have spare kit that can be leant between each other. For instance should we be adopting a specific impression for an event and you do not have a jacket, then you can be sure someone else will have a spare one and be happy to lend it to you.
However, what is more important to the unit is that you bring along the enthusiasm to belong to a group of living historians who wish to give the best impression of a Civil War soldier or civilian that they are able to. More often than not this is not just about what you might wear, but the way you wear it!
And please remember, you do not have to be a Civil War buff to give a good impression. The vast majority of the soldiers and civilians of the time would only have recognition’s of that which directly affected them and much of that would have been disjointed by the newspapers, rumours and political propaganda of the time. After all, why would a former farmer in the ranks of Cleburne’s division have any idea, or need to know, who commanded the 3rd Division at Gettysburg or how many Enfield rifles were imported into the States from Britain?
Our minimum standards and guidelines may at first appear to be high, but they are remarkably easy to achieve. What is most important is that we all enjoy ourselves and get from the hobby the sense of comradeship and achievement that the hobby can certainly offer.
AUTHENTICITY STANDARDS
The Volunteer Company has been formed to provide a more authentic alternative for re-enactors and, as such, it is expected that members of the Volunteer Company and men who fall in with or camps with the Volunteer Company are interested in an authentic living history experience. These standards have been created to achieve and maintain a high level of authenticity and provide a more-accurate impression of the original units as are portrayed by the Volunteer Company.
Although the Volunteer Company unit impression may change from event to event, the focus of the group impression is mid-1863. Unless a weekend scenario dictates otherwise, the impression is that of soldiers on campaign camp.
Improvement to our re-enacting impression should be an on-going process. Members are highly encouraged to upgrade their clothing and equipment as promptly as their circumstances allow. Although attitude is more important that equipment, an increased attention to correct construction and materials is both instructive and necessary in order to achieve the look of the soldiers we attempt to portray.A quality historical impression will concentrate on more than just "kit" and even the casual reader of these standards will notice the attention paid to non-material items. The re-enactor who is dedicated to authenticity will divide his efforts between facets of equal importance: man, methods, and material culture.
"Material Culture" refers to all the physical items that are part of the re-enactor's impression: weapons, uniforms, equipment, food, personal items, etc. The importance of high standards in this area is fairly obvious, since its elements can be seen at all times.
"Methods" answer the question, "How were things done?" By showing how the material culture was actually used. Drill is probably the best example, but there are many other methods that deserve consideration: how the soldiers cooked their meals, how they made their camp, how they cleaned their weapons, issued their rations, and passed the time.
Attention to the "Man" element is a hallmark of the highest-quality re-enactors. "Man" relates to the person in the uniform: his thought patterns, speech, mannerisms, and physical condition. The recent activity known as "first person impression" is an example of attempts to round out the historical presentation by creating a 19th-century social environment.
It is the Volunteer Company's philosophy that each of the above-mentioned "facets of authenticity" is equally important, and our members and guests should be prepared for a certain level of expectations in each category.
Actual items carried in the field are subject to review for correctness. It is intended that the Volunteer Company portrays and displays the correct look of the campaign soldiers we represent.
CONFEDERATE UNIFORM
GENERAL NOTES: Uniforms should be appropriately sewn, made of the proper materials, and constructed in the correct "cut". Proper stitching is encouraged, as are hand-sewn buttonholes. This applies for uniform jackets, pants, vests, shirts, and drawers.
Civil War uniforms were provided in a limited number of sizes, so STICK TO THESE REGULATION SIZES. Avoid the "cookie-cutter soldier" appearance provided by a tailored uniform. Instead, we want to preserve the "unaltered-just-as-issued" look that was typical of soldiers in the field.
Do not be afraid to cuff your trousers or blouse, or to wear "high-water" trousers. If the issue-size clothing does not fit you perfectly, then it is probably correct. This is important.
Headgear
· Civilian Slouch Hat - Black, Brown, or Grey. Edge of brim as well as hatband should be bound with silk ribbon, hand or machine sewn on. Leather or Cotton Duck sweatband should be hand sewn in. Cloth lining is highly recommended but not required.
· CS issue hat - Wool Felt, hand-stitched leather sweatband, label in crown, double stitched on brim 3. Hardee Hat - Black wool felt with hand-stitched leather sweatband, label in crown, double stitched on brim.
· Kepi or Cap - Grey jeanwool, tarred canvas or leather bill, leather or painted cloth sweatband.
Shirts
· Civilian Shirts - Fabrics must be woven of 100% natural fibre's, i.e. cotton or wool. Plaids and checks should be woven. Basic assembly may be machine sewn, but ideally exterior details and buttonholes shall be hand sewn. Buttons shall be of appropriate size and made of glass, bone agate or wood.
· Military Issue Shirts - Fabrics must be woven of 100% natural fibre's, i.e. cotton or wool. Military issue shirts were made of primarily of heavy unbleached muslin, osnaburg, or wool flannel. Basic assembly may be machine sewn, but ideally, exterior details and buttonholes shall be hand sewn. Buttons shall be of appropriate size and made of glass, bone agate or wood. In either case, no prints or machine stitched buttonholes.
Jackets / Coats
· Army of Northern Virginia Jacket - Richmond Depot style jacket. The time period of the impression shall dictate the proper "Type" of jacket. Spring '62 through spring '63 - "Type I" made of Jeans, Cassimere, Satinette, or Kersey; spring '63 through Summer '64 - "Type II" made of Jeans, or Cassimere; Spring '64 through Appomattox - "Type III" made from Blue/Grey Kersey (English Army Cloth / County Cloth K1 or K7). Jackets will be fully lined with cotton osnaburg with one internal breast pocket. The 9-button front is standard although 8-button fronts are acceptable in limited numbers. JNCO insignia should not be worn despite the rank within a unit. When rank insignia is worn, only cotton or woollen tape trim shall be used, which should be hand sewn directly onto the sleeves. Embroidered patch rank type insignia are not permitted.
· North Carolina State Issue Jackets - when doing a NCST impression. The time period of the impression shall dictate the proper pattern. Summer '61 through summer '62; 1861 Issue Sack Coat made from Jeans or Cassimere with trim on the shoulders. Spring '61 through winter '62; First 1862 Issue jacket with roll collar made from jeans or cassimere with optional trim on the shoulders. Fall '62 through Appomattox; Second 1862 Issue pattern jacket with a standing collar made from Jeans or Cassimere, having no trim and two inside pockets.
· Commutation Issue Jackets - for impression of troops in the commutation period, (April '61 through winter '62/Spring '63) any issue commutation issue jacket as identified as issued to soldiers in Virginia. Jackets shall be of appropriate type of and colour of material. Commutation jackets shall be hand topstitched and must have hand sewn buttonholes.
· Columbus Depot. These jackets are the most widely documented western issue jackets. They saw use from autumn 1862 through to at least winter 1864 in the Army of Tennessee and some examples made there way back east with Longstreet's troops after the Chickamauga campaign. This style of jacket was made in a variety of depots, not just in Columbus, GA, but also in most Mississippi depots. The main cloth should be of light grey to light tan wool jean (machine loomed with few slubs or inclusions). Collar and cuff facings (exterior only) in medium to dark blue kersey, and cotton osnaburg lining. By far the most common number of buttons for this jacket is 6 though a very small number with either 5 or 6 are acceptable. Buttons should be either US Enlisted, MS State 'I' Two-piece, script 'I' two-piece British import or block 'I' cast one piece. Columbus pattern jackets with an external pocket are slightly more common than those without, either a straight left breast pocket, which is positioned level with the third buttonhole from the top or a slanting left breast pocket, which is positioned level with the fourth button from the top. However, a 'plain' jacket is equally as acceptable. Generic mid-war Columbus Depot jackets should have curved lower front margins. The backs may be either cut straight across or have a mild "tail" in the back, the straight cut being less in evidence. The most popular stitching style was a standard single topstitch done with dark colour thread, medium brown being a common choice. However, Mississippi variants have topstitching as well as the setting of the lining and interior pocket(s) done by machine at a fairly long stitch length (7-9 per inch). Buttonholes should be closely stitched, rounded, and sometimes corded.
· Alabama Pattern Common elements of the Department of Alabama pattern jacket are: base material of light brown woollen jean, collar facings (exterior only) made in dark blue jeans with a brown cotton warp. Cotton osnaburg lining, straight lower front margins, straight back margin, no interior pockets, and a five button front. Variations in the jackets may include location of the exterior pocket and the presence or absence of a belt loop. Suggested buttons (as probably issued) are wooden buttons with a central concave depression and only two holes.
· Frock Coats - may be used in appropriate circumstances. Early war impressions may use identified militia style patterns. NCO's may use plain untrimmed frock coats at any time but discretion should be used to ensure that the frock coat would be appropriate for the specific time, place, and unit.
· Officer's Uniforms Uniforms worn by officers will follow identified patterns and materials. Frock coats of kersey, satinette or broadcloth are preferred during the '61 though '63 time period. Frock coats worn by officers should generally be trimmed. Identified examples should be used as a guide. Short jackets should be used as well during spring '63 through Appomattox.
· Civilian Frock Coats/Sack Coats These should look like poor farmers' coats of civilian style with turndown collar. Only correct period styles and materials shall be used. Hand topstitching and hand-sewn buttonholes are required. Authentic fabrics are required, with no modern synthetic blends or 100% woollen materials dyed with modern synthetic dyes. Linings may be osnaburg or Silesia (polished cotton), or patterned materials. Buttons may be brass coin buttons, cloth-covered buttons or 2-piece brass dome buttons ('Zouave Buttons').
Trousers
· Civilian Jean - Original patterns in grey, blue, brown or black. Hand topstitching, with hand-sewn buttonholes. Buttons of bone, composition or stamped tin.
· Civilian Wool - Identified style and pattern, hand-sewn button holes. Buttons of bone or composition.
· Military Issue - Richmond Depot style - Mule ear pockets, no yoke. Back belt with buckle. Made from jeans or cassimere for time period of spring '62 through winter '64. Wool kersey of the proper weight may be used for spring '64 through Appomattox. Buttons may be bone, composition, or japanned tin of the proper style. Confederate issue wooden trouser buttons are acceptable in limited numbers after spring '64. Hand finished topstitching and buttonholes.
· Military Issue - Other Depot Styles. Side seam pockets no yoke. Back belt with buckle, and made from jeans or cassimere. Buttons may be bone, composition, or japanned tin of the proper style. Confederate issue wooden trouser buttons are acceptable in limited numbers after spring '64. Hand finished topstitching and buttonholes.
· Federal Issue Trousers. These should be avoided under most circumstances, but discretion is granted when portraying units who have conclusive evidence that captured federal clothing was used by that unit at the specific time of the intended impression. Sky blue kersey of proper weight and weave, with hand finished buttonholes are required. Sky blue Richmond depot trousers will be allowed.
Suspenders / Braces
· Civilian - Any type of period civilian model with tin or brass buckles. No buckles of nickel - or other plated metal. Any stitching should be hand sewn.
· Canvas or Ticking - hand stitched with hand sewn buttonholes.
Drawers
· Civilian Pattern - Cotton Osnaburg or muslin, cotton or wool flannel. Bone, glass or wood buttons with hand sewn button holes.
· Military Pattern - Cotton Osnaburg or muslin or cotton flannel. Bone, glass or wood buttons with hand sewn button holes.
Socks
· Civilian Socks, particularly hand knitted cotton or wool
· Military Issue Socks, machine knitted cotton. Proper pattern and finishing.
Shoes
· Confederate Issue Shoes
· English boots or shoes - Military or Civilian Styles
· Identified Civilian boots or shoes - Boots and shoes of a civilian pattern, which have been identified, are permitted. For impressions after winter 1862, boots had generally limited use in most infantry units.
· Federal Issue Shoe - Generally limited Confederate use.
Waistcoats / Vests
· Civilian Made - Period civilian or military styles. Made from correct wool, jean, cassimere or satinette. Wool kersey and linsey-woolsey, or cotton. Fully lined, hand topstitched, with hand-sewn buttonholes.
AccoutrementsNOTE: All accoutrements should be worn at the proper height. The waist-belt shall be worn about the centre of the stomach (over the navel). Cartridge Box slings came in only one length, and when this sling is used, you will want to adjust the billets so that the top of the box rides just below the bottom edge of the waist-belt. Haversack and canteen straps shall be the proper lengths, so that the top of the haversack and canteen are approximately equal with the elbow. If necessary, straps shall be shortened for the haversack (cut and sewn shorter), and canteen (knotted up or cut-and-sewn). If a knapsack is used, it is recommended that the canteen strap be over the knapsack straps to facilitate both drinking and refilling the canteen while on the march.
Haversacks· CS Issue - Bag of identified CS pattern. Button or buckle enclosure.
· U.S. Issue - Bag of identified U.S. pattern. Tarred type with buckle and inner bag with hand sewn button hole(s).
Canteens
· To be used according to time period of impression
· Wooden Style - Made of cedar/cypress/cherry/etc. Various styles. Confederate and British manufacture.
· Tin Drum Style - Various styles and sizes. Avoid oversize or very large canteens of this type. With or without jean or wool cover. Strap may be cotton, linen or leather or a properly documented style. Leather straps must have proper hardware.
· U.S. Issue - Smooth side type - used throughout the war but more prevalent '61 - '63. Bulls Eye Type used after spring '63. With or without jean cloth or wool cover. Strap may be cotton, linen or leather or a properly documented style. Leather straps must have proper hardware
Cartridge Boxes
· Shoulder worn cartridge box slings shall generally be black leather, but painted canvas with leather end tabs are acceptable. Buff leather should be limited to early war and militia impressions.
· Any Army of Northern Virginia identified box.
· Richmond Arsenal
· English Made Imported Enfield Pattern Cartridge Box
· Christian S. Storms (CS Storms of New York, NY - Contractor box)
· Captured Federal issue 1855 .58 cal Cartridge Box - Early versions, general use. Later war issue, limited use. Model 1842 .69 cal. boxes and follows on variants for either belt or sling carriage.
Cap Pouches
· Any Army of Northern Virginia identified pouch. Generally black leather. Russet leather - limited use.
· Tarred canvas, limited Confederate use
· Federal Issue. Black Leather - Shield front or other common type.
· Imported S. Isaac's & Campbell
Belt Plates / Frames / Waist belts.
· Belts to be made with leather, black or russet. Painted canvas for later war use is acceptable. Buff leather should be used for very early war or militia impressions except imported British types.
· Any Army of Northern Virginia identified plate or buckle.
· Georgia Frame Plate
· CS "Forked - Tongue" Buckle
· Roller Buckle
· Richmond Arsenal - painted canvas - Roller Buckle or used with plate. Issued after summer '63.
Bayonet Scabbards· Bayonets shall have an appropriate scabbard in order for it to be carried. Scabbards shall have a proper metal tip.
· Any identified ANV frog and scabbard.
· Imported English frog and scabbard.
· U.S. non-regulation 7 or 8 rivet pattern. Limited use.
Knapsacks
· Mexican War Pattern
· Imported English - S. Isaac & Campbell Co. or Ross & Co.
· Confederate Issue - Manufacture of any above style.
· Federal Issue Double Bag - Limited Confederate use
UNION UNIFORM
GENERAL NOTES: Uniforms should be appropriately sewn, made of the proper materials, and constructed in the correct "cut". Proper stitching is encouraged, as are hand-sewn buttonholes. This applies for uniform jackets, pants, vests, shirts, and drawers.
Civil War uniforms were provided in a limited number of sizes, so STICK TO THESE REGULATION SIZES. Avoid the "cookie-cutter soldier" appearance provided by a tailored uniform. Instead, we want to preserve the "unaltered-just-as-issued" look that was typical of soldiers in the field.
Do not be afraid to cuff your trousers or blouse, or to wear "high-water" trousers. If the issue-size clothing does not fit you perfectly, then it is probably correct. This is important.
Headgear
· Civilian Hats: Appropriate, period-style civilian slouch hats are permitted on campaign and as otherwise appropriate for the scenario portrayed. Civilian hats shall be devoid of hat cords. Hats shall be devoid of insignia; as piece of civilian attire that was "tolerated. Civilian hats shall have a sewn edge binding, a silk hat ribbon, and a sweatband of leather or cotton duck. Civilian hats shall be made of fine wool felt and shall not include metal-trimmed vents or exhibit a "fuzzy" appearance. "Steamed fedoras", derbies, and shapeless hat blanks are forbidden. Acceptable hat colours are medium to dark grey, medium to dark brown, and black, with black as the preferred colour.
· Soft "smoking caps" are acceptable when soldiers are off-duty if the particular cap and material is correct for the period.
· Headgear for officers is at the discretion of the officer and shall be suitable for the scenario and portrayal. Acceptable headgear includes: U.S. Army dress hat, civilian hat, forage cap, and Kepi. Hats may be worn with or without embroidered branch insignia.
Shirts
· Federal Issue Shirts: It is preferred that all members have at least one grey or domet flannel Federal-issue shirt, as this was the shirt worn by the majority of Federal soldiers. Federal-issue shirts may be either depot-made or contractor-made. Domet flannel shirts will have three ½" diameter tin-plated buttons; one at the neck and one at each cuff; the fabric shall be a cotton warp and wool weft in an off-white colour. Please note that these shirts were originally supplied in only one size (no kidding). Resist the temptation to wear an inauthentic 'custom-size' issue shirt! The typical grey wool shirt will have 4 or 5 buttons, with two or three on a placket front and one on each cuff.
· Civilian Shirts: Fabrics must be woven of 100-percent natural fibre. Only period-correct prints (such as checked prints; note that paisley, no matter how historically correct, is strongly discouraged) may be worn. [EOG/US page 126] Fabric may be 100 percent cotton muslin or flannel. Shirts must have wood, bone, mother-of-pearl, glass, porcelain, or paper-backed tin buttons. Bone, glass, and porcelain were more common than wood buttons. Buttons are a conspicuous problem with inaccurate clothing. Antique or properly made reproduction buttons can be purchased from good sutlers.
· Members are encouraged to avoid using white muslin or linen shirts.
Uniform Coats and Jackets
· Fatigue Blouse ("Sack Coat") for Enlisted Men and Non-commissioned Officers: Required field-wear is the standard, New York or Schuylkill Depot-issue Federal four-button fatigue blouse. All jackets should be of indigo (dark blue) wool flannel material. Wool flannel shall exhibit a visible "wale" in the fabric and shall be a shade between a medium and dark blue colour; the colour shall not be a blackish, "navy" blue that fades to an even more-unacceptable purple colour. Lined or unlined blouses are acceptable. Unlined blouses must have all seams flat-felled. Lining can be lightweight brown flannel, linen, or jean in the body, and cotton muslin or linen shirting in the sleeves. Fatigue blouses shall have standard, medium-sized U.S. infantry buttons.
· U.S. Uniform Coat ("Frock Coat") for Enlisted Men and Non-commissioned Officers: The federal infantry coat is acceptable for field wear as dictated by the scenario. Frock coats shall be of dark blue wool broadcloth material; refer to "Fatigue Blouses" above for requirements on fabric colour. Frock coats should be lined with a mixture of alpaca, tow or some similar material as chest padding, polished cotton, and muslin or osnaburg in the sleeves. Frock coat trim shall be light blue piping or cording; "tape-trim" is not allowed. Frock coats shall have standard U.S. infantry buttons. Original frock coats were made with pocket in the skirts only; there should not be a factory-made pocket in the breast.
· New York State "Excelsior" Shell Jacket for Enlisted Men and Non-commissioned Officers: These are acceptable only when appropriate for the scenario. Shell jackets shall be of 18-ounce dark blue wool broadcloth material (refer to "Fatigue Blouses" above for requirements on fabric colour), lined with cotton or other period-correct material. Jacket shall have a stand-up collar, functional epaulettes, and a belt loop on the left side. Jacket shall include 1/8-inch sky blue piping around the collar, epaulettes, and belt loop. Jackets should have seven ¾-inch diameter New York State buttons.
· Fatigue Blouse ("Sack Coat") for Commissioned Officers: The officer's sack coat is a loose-fitting blouse that should generally be longer than the enlisted fatigue blouse and are acceptable when appropriate for the scenario. Officers' sack coats were privately purchased and exhibited variation from one officer to the next. Sack coats shall be of dark blue wool flannel or broadcloth material (refer to "Fatigue Blouses for Enlisted Men and Non-commissioned Officers" above for requirements on fabric colour). Linings shall be appropriate to the original used as a pattern. Sack coat may have a four or five-button front; additional buttons are permissible. Sack coats generally had at least two outside pockets. Black velvet collars and cuffs were common and are acceptable on officers' sack coats. While there is documented evidence of officers on campaign preferring to wear the unadorned sack coats of private soldiers, the Columbia Rifles desire that an officer's impression include a jacket or coat that is of a pattern specific to commissioned rank. Exceptions would be made on a case-by-case basis if documentation exists for officers within the specific unit being portrayed.
· Frock Coat for Commissioned Officers: Captains and lieutenants' frock coats shall be single-breasted; field-grade officers may wear double-breasted coats. Frock coats shall be of dark blue wool broadcloth material; refer to "Fatigue Blouses for Enlisted Men and Non-commissioned Officers" above for fabric colour requirements. Frock coats should be lined with a mixture of alpaca, tow, or similar material as chest padding, and polished cotton; sleeves shall be lined with muslin or osnaburg. Officers are discouraged from wearing rank insignia on the sleeve unless correct for the portrayal. Frock coats shall have nine ¾-inch eagle buttons on the front, three 5/8-inch eagle buttons on each cuff, and a four- or six-button tail. Black velvet collars and cuffs were common and are acceptable on officers' frock coats. Officers shall not wear enlisted frock coats.
· Shell Jacket for Commissioned Officers: Many commissioned officers wore shell jackets. If worn by Members, commissioned officer shell jackets shall be of dark blue wool broadcloth material; refer to "Fatigue Blouses for Enlisted Men and Non-commissioned Officers" above for fabric colour requirements. Shell jacket lining shall be appropriate to the original used as a pattern. [
Trousers
· U.S. Army Infantry issue: Light blue kersey wool with a visible "wale" to the fabric. Pants shall not be pleated and shall have a watch pocket. For the veteran-soldier "as issued" look, wear one of the four issue sizes, unaltered. The cut is very important: many reproduction trousers ride like modern pants, with the waistband on top of the hipbones. The proper Civil War cut is much higher: the waistband should be just under the lower ribs. Federal trousers also were characterised by a straight out seam (actually an outdated cut by the fashion standards of 1860), which gives the trouser legs a period-correct "loose" appearance. Buttons shall be paper-backed tin. Pants should have a yoke or insert at the back to raise the waistband approximately 2 to 3 inches above the front of the pants. Fly shall be of kersey (not of white cotton). Preferred pants are Schuylkill Arsenal or J.T. Martin (period contractor from New York City) manufacture.
Suspenders/Braces· Civilian: Any type of period civilian model: all-cloth "poor boys", or adjustable with tin, brass, or japanned steel buckles. No buckles of nickel-plated metal.
· Canvas, drill, tapestry, embroidered, crocheted, woven, or ticking suspenders are acceptable.
· Leather-ends on suspenders must be 100 percent natural leather; synthetic substitutes are not allowed.
· Period-correct suspenders incorporating elastic components are allowed.
· Most issue trousers were furnished with only four suspender buttons; two in the front and two in the back. If you want to preserve the "unaltered-just-as-issued" look that was typical of soldiers in the field, use braces with only four suspension points.
Drawers
· Summer-issue drawers should be canton flannel material (plain cotton is also acceptable, although canton flannel was most common). Issue drawers can be of the Schuylkill Arsenal or New York Depot pattern. Issue drawers should have two or three-piece tin-plated buttons. Ties would be visible at the cuffs, unless they have been removed. Soldiers also cut the legs off their issue drawers in warm weather.
· Civilian drawers may have bone, wood, mother-of-pearl, or paper backed tin buttons. [
Socks
· Hand-knitted cotton or wool. No athletic socks. Elastic is not allowed.
· It is noted that the vast majority of large, general sutlers do not sell proper socks. Solid colours of socks can be worn, but should be correct for the period.
· Issue socks were very commonly machine knit and, to a lesser extent (which decreased as the war progressed) hand-knit in one of the following solid colours: off-white, grey, greyish blue, brown, or blue.
Shoes
· U.S. Military-Issue Bootee: Leather bootee per period specifications. Do not use modern, golden-coloured, oil-tanned "rawhide" bootlaces; black leather laces are the best bet. Bootees should have a slightly squared toe and have either pegged or stitched soles. Preference should be given to stitched-sole bootees, as it appears that the majority of shoes issued through the Schuylkill depot were of stitched-sole construction. The smooth side of the leather shall be towards the inside of the shoe. The rough side should be sheered and polished, giving the bootee a smooth appearance. Avoid shoes with a heavy, suede-like nap. While metal heel plates were not an issue item, they are recommended in order to prolong the life of reproduction shoes. Toe plates and hobnailed are acceptable as long as they are of a period pattern. Note that evidence suggests that "brogans" was not a period term.
· Gaiters: Canvas leggings are expressly not allowed unless documented as correct for the scenario. Leggings are correct for certain events and therefore their use is condoned for specific scenarios; Members will be advised in advance of events where leggings are appropriate. When worn, the only acceptable patterns are the two documented common "general-issue" versions: either white canvas with eyelets and leather reinforcements and laces, or all-leather construction with straps and buckles. Both versions of leggings should have a leather or canvas heel-strap. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of leggings with button closures.
· Be advised that tucking the trousers (called 'blousing') into the socks was (and is) not allowed in formal formations, such as parade, guard duty, inspections, etc.
· Boots: Although this item is under-represented in the ranks, members should use extreme caution if choosing boots for their impression. Many of the original soldiers discovered that a poorly made pair of boots proved to an agonising alternative for marching footwear. Re-enactors are even more likely to find this out today, for if anything, quality boots are even more difficult to find today. In fact, the Federal Army became less tolerant of straggling due to non-regulation footwear as the war progressed, and orders were periodically issued to give up boots and draw shoes instead. Boots, if worn, should me of two-piece top construction (the "full Wellington") with sewn or pegged leather soles and a fairly flat heel.
Waistcoat/Vest· Vests were not an army-issue item. Military-cut vests of dark blue or light blue kersey wool with brass buttons and cotton or linen back are acceptable, as are any period-correct style of civilian vest.
Overcoat
· U.S. "Foot" pattern: Light blue kersey wool, with white cotton or osnaburg lining in the sleeves and flannel or wool lining in the body (removal of the lining is acceptable), brass buttons (5-button front, 9-button cape), and preferably with hand-sewn buttonholes. Overcoats shall have standard U.S. infantry buttons.
· Overcoats shall be utilised only when appropriate for the scenario; especially in the second half of the war, overcoats were generally placed in storage from late April through mid-September and, as such, are generally not correct for scenarios during these months.
· Cavalry greatcoats are not acceptable.
· NCO chevrons shall NOT be displayed on overcoats. While there are original overcoats with chevrons, this practice is extremely detrimental to the plain, "nondescript" look that the 'progressive company is trying to achieve.
ACCOUTREMENTSNOTE: All accoutrements should be worn at the proper height. The waist-belt shall be worn about the centre of the stomach (over the navel). Cartridge Box slings came in only one length, and when this sling is used, you will want to adjust the billets so that the top of the box rides just below the bottom edge of the waist-belt. Haversack and canteen straps shall be the proper lengths, so that the top of the haversack and canteen are approximately equal with the elbow. If necessary, straps shall be shortened for the haversack (cut and sewn shorter), and canteen (knotted up or cut-and-sewn). If a knapsack is used, it is recommended that the canteen strap be over the knapsack straps to facilitate both drinking and refilling the canteen while on the march.
Haversack
· Preferred U.S. Issue Haversack: Painted (black) canvas with buckle and inner canvas bag. Closure buckle shall be japanned, painted black steel, or unfinished iron; nickel-plated and stainless steel buckles are not allowed. The leather fixtures can be held onto the haversack with rivets or linen stitching. Maximum size of the haversack shall be 12 inches by 12 inches. Straps on period haversacks were generally approximately 42 inches in length.
· Items carried in the haversack should be period correct. The haversack was intended to carry food; personal items should largely be carried in the knapsack. Or pockets.
· Items in the haversack should be carried in small cotton or muslin "poke bags" with drawstrings or wrapped in period-style newspaper.
· Haversacks will generally not be worn at dress parade, modern parades, etc.
· Tin ware should be hitched to the outside of the haversack only when there is insufficient room for mess gear within the haversack.
Canteen
· U.S. Issue Model 1858 (Smooth-side), New York or Schuylkill Depot pattern: Tin-plated sheet iron oblate spheroid canteen with three strap keepers. One keeper may have a punched hole (to hold the cork attachment) per New York Depot canteen specifications; only canteens issued by the New York Depot had this hole. Corrugated canteen bodies (i.e. "bulls-eye" canteens) were issued only by the Schuylkill Depot and after mid-1862.
· Cover: Canteens shall have a grey or brown coloured cover of jean or satinette. Although original canteens exist with kersey covers, they were uncommon and are therefore grossly over-represented in today's re-enacting world; they are therefore strongly discouraged.
· Wooden Canteens: Confederates may also carry god quality wooden drum canteens of the Gardner pattern.
· Strap: Straps should be white cotton drilling, approximately ¾-inch wide and 72 inches in length. New York Depot canteens often used the same drill that was used to fabricate shelter tents, with a visible twill weave. The Schuylkill Arsenal usually used twill tape after 1862. In August 1862, the New York and Schuylkill arsenals largely discontinued use of leather canteen straps, although some leather straps remained in use in the field until at least the summer of 1863. Leather canteen straps should be russet-coloured (brown), ½-inch wide with a buckle closure. Leather canteen straps shall not be used for impressions after summer of 1863.
· Cork: Should be secured with galvanised (zinc plated) iron chain (correct for New York Depot canteens) or string.
· Stainless steel canteens are allowed, but the spout shall be pewter or tin; stainless steel shall never be visible.
Cartridge Box and Side-arm Accoutrements
· Black leather M1861 cartridge box for 0.58 calibre muzzle loading rifles, with leather sling. Cartridge box must be equipped with tins. Sling must have a brass eagle breastplate, and be made in the regulation length of 55 inches with two narrow 5 ½" long billets. The most common method of factory attaching the breastplate to the strap was to bend the loops over on the inside, without use of ties, wedges, etc. The cartridge box should have a brass plate reading "US" (state designations, such as "SNY" or "OVM", are not acceptable for brass plates) commonly attached with a leather "wedge" in the visual centre of the box flap.
· Pistol Box: May be worn only by commissioned officers that elect to carry side arms. Pistol box shall be black leather and shall have two belt loops sewn or riveted to the backside of the pistol box. Pistol cartridge boxes do not appear to have been universally used by infantry officers in the field. Since revolver ammunition was purchased in drilled wooden blocks, boxes of revolver ammunition were often carried in the haversack or pockets.
· Pistol Holster shall be worn only by commissioned officers that elect to carry side arms. Holster should be patterned after a corresponding original. Originals include open-top and flap holsters in brown or black leather, often with decorative tooling. Closures range from brass or silver-plated stud & straps to simple strap and loop. Preferred (common) holster is right side, butt forward (presumably, in battle an officer would have a sword in the right hand, and would therefore draw the pistol with the left hand from the right hip), although other holster configurations are also acceptable.
· Cap Pouch. Black leather cap pouch, M1855, with inner flap, cone pick loop and sheepskin liner.
Waistbelt and Belt Plate
· Federal-issue black-dyed (not painted) leather waist belt with standing leather loop keeper is preferred. The brass keeper is acceptable but not preferred. (Note: brass keepers were not the rule before the end of 1863 or early 1864; the standing loop belt is far more common until 1864). Minimum width of waist-belt shall be 1-7/8 inches; maximum width shall be 2 inches.
· Brass belt plate should read "US" (not, "SNY" or "OVM") and preferably be lead-filled (not resin-filled). "Snake head" hooks (now called "arrow hooks") to attach the plate to the belt were introduced relatively late in the war. Up to the beginning of 1863, the "puppy paw" or "mushroom head" studs were typical.
· NCOs may wear the Federal non-commissioned officer waist-belt with rectangular eagle plate closure. Belt shall be dyed black leather approximately 1¾ inches wide. The belt length shall be adjustable by means of a brass hook, and shall include a leather keeper. Buckle-closure shall be a brass rectangle with eagle insignia and hook to mate with the brass eye at opposite end of belt.
· Commissioned Officer Sword Belt: Officer's sword belts were black-dyed, brown, black patent leather, maroon, and embroidered cloth. All of the following dimensions are given as a guide only, because original sword belts have significant variations.
· Members are advised to copy an existing original that has a documented provenance.
· Sword belt for commissioned officers should be approximately 1-5/8 inches wide. Belt length should be adjustable by means of a brass buckle, and should include a leather keeper. Buckle-closure may be a brass rectangle with eagle insignia and hook to mate with the brass eye at opposite end of belt. Belt should include two square brass loops each approximately 1½ inches by 1½ inches, each fastened to the belt with two pieces of leather reinforcing sewn to the belt. Belt should include two 1-inch wide leather straps looped through the brass loops and secured with removable brass rivets. Each strap shall have a brass swivel snap (note: there are no known accurate reproduction swivel snaps;
· Members are encouraged to use original swivel snaps if available. The belt should have a 1-inch wide adjustable baldric (shoulder strap) with leather keeper and brass closure hook; the baldric may be removed at the officers' discretion.
Bayonet and Scabbard
· Scabbard: Acceptable scabbards patterns include the two rivet and the seven rivet types. Two-rivet pattern scabbards are preferred because they are an earlier-war pattern and were typical until the seven-rivet pattern was distributed starting in the spring of 1863. Both patterns were constructed of black-dyed (not painted) leather. DO NOT buy a two-piece English scabbard/frog. All scabbards shall be equipped with a brass tip for safety considerations; this tip should be attached to the scabbard body with from two to four small brass or copper brads.
· Bayonet: Carbon steel bayonets correct for the weapon. Bayonet shall have a locking ring. Members should replace the reproduction locking-ring on their bayonet with an original locking ring. Remove the "INDIA" stamp from the bayonet with a file and emery cloth. Either leave this area blank or stamp in the letters "US". Sharpening of bayonets is expressly prohibited. Best results (durability) will be obtained through use of an original bayonet.
Knapsack
· Federal Issue Double Bag Knapsack: Painted (black) canvas or drilling with black-dyed (not painted) leather straps, mid-war pattern. Closure buckles shall be japanned, painted black steel, or unfinished iron; nickel-plated and stainless steel buckles are not allowed. Hooks shall be brass.
· Members are allowed to utilise blanket rolls ("mule collars") in lieu of knapsacks.
· "Hardpack" knapsacks and wood frames inserted into the double-bag knapsacks are discouraged unless specifically condoned for an event. These pieces of equipment were early-war items and their use in post-1862 scenarios is generally incorrect.
· Unless specifically dictated otherwise by the scenario, members are highly encouraged to wear knapsacks ("full marching order") to all marches, battles, and demonstrations where we are portraying soldiers on campaign. Knapsacks may or may not be worn when soldiers are detailed to guard duty (depending on the scenario); wearing of knapsacks is never required when actually posted as a sentinel.
· Packing of knapsacks for an event shall be as light as possible. Pack only what you can carry on a march of at least five hours. A knapsack is generally packed too heavy if it weighs more than 14 lbs. fully loaded, including the blanket, gum blanket, and shelter half.
· Knapsacks are not appropriate at dress parade, modern-day parades, and ceremonies.
Miscellaneous Items
· Eyewear: If corrective lenses are required, contact lenses are preferred. If glasses are worn, they shall be period correct. In no event shall eyeglass lenses be larger than one inch in diameter. Temple-pieces ("bows") should not loop around the ears (this was a post-war style). Nose-rest pads on eyewear are not allowed. Sunglasses are not allowed. No modern eyewear will is allowed at any time.
· Chevrons: NCO's are encouraged to wear chevrons commensurate with their rank. No member of the company shall wear a rank insignia above his official rank unless brevetted by the company commander. Company NCO chevrons shall be worsted wool; other chevrons as authorised by the battalion shall conform with the U.S. Army Regulations relative to material and configuration. NCO's on campaign were known to wear private's blouses until ordered to add their badge of rank: these improvised chevrons were often crude affairs of "tape" or light-blue wool from pants. "Factory made" chevrons are preferred but, if approved by the company commander beforehand, such improvised chevrons are acceptable for campaign scenarios.
· Insignia for Commissioned Officers: Insignia of rank should be worn by commissioned officers unless documentation suggests otherwise for a given scenario and portrayal. Generally, insignia should be shoulder straps. Straps can be embroidered or the Smith Patent laminated metal styles. Backing shall be fine wool or velvet, medium or dark-blue in colour. At the discretion of the officer, either double-border or single-border straps may be used. Miniature insignia may be worn on officer sack coats.
· Sashes: When required for the scenario and portrayal, orderly sergeants, principal musicians, and commissioned officers will wear sashes. Sashes for non-commissioned officers shall be red knitted wool, knotted at both ends, and approximately nine feet in length. Sashes for commissioned officers may be silk netting or knitted wool, shall be scarlet (maroon) in colour, knotted at each end, and approximately nine feet in length (commissioned officer's sash)] Other ranks shall not wear sashes.
BLANKETS, TENTAGE AND WATERPROOFS
TENTAGE
When on campaign, the Volunteer Company camp will typically be a bivouac. A bivouac may include the following shelters: improvised "shebang's", and other documented types of shelter used by soldiers on campaign. During fair weather, an even more prevalent practice was to bivouac without erecting any shelter at all. A campaign style impression shall be the norm in the vast majority of events. Shelter halves or small rain flies may be used if they are of the proper pattern.
· Type of Tent: Enlisted men, non-commissioned officers, and company officers shall use no tent larger than a shelter tent unless otherwise dictated by the scenario. Although accounts exist wherein soldiers carried more than one shelter half (sometimes in lieu of a blanket or gum blanket), this is discouraged for enlisted men and NCO's for practical purposes. Officers are allowed one shelter tent (two halves) per officer. The purpose-built triangular end pieces are forbidden, as there is little evidence that they were issued to the troops.
· Federal-issue Shelter Half: Should not have brass grommets (instead, shelter halves should have two 3/8-inch diameter hand-sewn holes at the corners), and should be 8 oz./yard cotton drilling or fine tabby-weave linen. The preferred shelter half is the three-panel model with single or double-side reinforcement preferably with bone buttons. Shelter tents for 1864 scenarios should preferably be of two-panel construction with paper-backed tin buttons. Late-war shelter halves may be constructed of "blue line"-type drilling or linen and should have a third set of grommet holes at the bottom of the third seam.
· Confederate "issue" rain fly - Cotton canvas grommets of appropriate size and material. Dimensions should generally be no more than 8 ft x 12 ft.
· Tent stakes should be of wood.
· Shelter tent poles (if used at all) should be wooden tree limbs foraged from a forest rather than brought to the event site. Bark should be left on. Finished timber used for tent poles is forbidden.
· Rope: The preferred rope used with tents is hemp. Manila rope is the minimum acceptable rope on tents.
· Common tents ("A-tents") housing a minimum of four men each will be used when appropriate for the scenario portrayed. Common tents shall be approximately six feet in height, eight feet in length, and seven feet in width, and shall have end flaps. Bell tents are not allowed. Hand sewn grommet holes with rope loops are encouraged in lieu of brass grommets or canvas loops.
· Notes: Modern quilts, sleeping bags, etc. are not allowed at any time. Air and/or foam mattresses are forbidden.
CONFEDERATE IMPRESSIONBlankets
· Civilian.100% Wool or Jean - no synthetic blends. Should be muted earth tones. Browns, greys, and blue are acceptable colours. Bindings should be hand sewn.
· North Carolina Issue or other Confederate State Issues
· Quilts - "Homespun" i.e. all hand made - All natural fibres. No "bright" or otherwise modern colours. No modern patterns. Size variable from 40"x72" to 50"x80".
· Captured U.S. Issue - U.S. Issue blankets of either grey or brown (refer to US guidelines).
Gum Blankets / Ground Cloths
· Linseed soaked cotton canvas - with or without grommets.
· Linseed oil & lampblack mix painted cotton canvas or drill - with or without grommets.
· Confederate Issue oilcloth - Canvas painted with oil or enamel paint. With or without grommets.
· Captured Federal Issue - Rubber blanket or poncho.
· Rubber coated linen or cotton sheeting.
UNION IMPRESSIONBlankets
· U.S. Issue blankets of either brown or grey wool/shoddy or mixed cotton and wool with end-stripes are preferred. Issue blankets should have the letters "US" sewn into the centre of the blanket in a period-correct pattern.
Gum Blanket/Ground Cloth
· Federal Issue Rubber Blanket: Gum blankets should have small (3/8-inch diameter) grommets. Gum blankets should be made of a rubber-coated drill or muslin material with an uneven pattern of grommets; along one long edge, the grommets were usually placed in a spacing that was supposed to be used for tying the blanket over the soldiers' shoulders. Use of ponchos is discouraged because ponchos are over-represented in the ranks of infantry re-enactors.
RATIONS AND COOKING
· Only period-correct foods should be eaten in the campaign camp. Military-issue rations should make up the bulk of these items.
· In most campaign situations, rations are limited to salt pork (slab bacon), fresh or salt beef, hardtack, coffee and sugar. These were the government-issue "staples" that the soldier could (usually) count on receiving without resorting to procuring food from outside camp, additional issue items such as beans, peas, fresh or desiccated vegetables, etc. may also be used. Cornbread would be more suitable to a Confederate impression, hardtack having a limited issue to the southern soldiers.
· "Foraged" items should be limited to those items documented as having been appropriated by Civil War foragers.
· Use of canned goods is improper for campaign scenarios, as these items were expensive, heavy, and usually unavailable because sutlers normally disappeared during active campaigning. Avoid them where you can.
· All foods should be wrapped in period materials such as brown paper, newspaper, rags or cloth bags.
· Plastic or aluminium packaging is forbidden.
· Iceboxes are forbidden.
· Members are highly encouraged to minimise their cooking equipment. Those mess items that are used should be spread among the men of a mess and shared in common.
· If used, frying pans shall be made of tin-plated or unfinished stamped steel, riveted with a stamped steel or cast iron handle (skillet bodies of cast iron are not correct for the period). Frying pans should be small enough (8-inch diameter or less) to be comfortably carried while on campaign.
· Documentation shows that soldiers used canteen halves and tin plates as substitutes for frying pans. Skillets were improvised by using slit branches (preferably of green wood, for lower burning potential) for handles.
· Most meat was fried, boiled, or roasted. A forked tree branch over the campfire makes an excellent cooking implement for roasting meat.
· Knives, forks, and spoons must be of Civil War style. Civilian forks are generally three-pronged, and utensils should have either bone or wood handles. Federal issue flatware was hot-tinned-dipped, stamped sheet iron; issue forks had four tines. Avoid using any utensil of stainless steel.
· All Members should have a tin plate or canteen half and army issue tin cup or improvised boiler. Tin cups have reinforced edges and handle and are assembled with lead-free solder. Tin cups shall not have "crimped" bottoms (i.e. they shall not have a lip similar to a modern can).
· Members are encouraged to improvise coffee coolers to supplement or replace tin cups. The most popular style of cooler was a simple period vegetable can with a bail wire attached. If used, such cans must have smooth sides and shall not have "crimped" bottoms.
· Tin plates should be heavy-duty tin-plated sheet metal plates and not deep "pie pans".
· Stainless steel mess furniture is prohibited.
MILITARY CAMP
Military Camp Observed
· Camp will be run in a military fashion, in accordance with period protocols and manuals. Guard mount details may be posted (depending on the event) and fatigue details will be assigned.
· Soldiers will be subject only to orders from the units own Officers and NCO's. Nevertheless, all soldiers shall show proper military courtesy to the Officers and NCO's of other units within the organisation.
· Enlisted men shall salute officers.
· NCOs shall be shown the proper respect for their rank.
· All Members are expected to comply with orders for guard mount and fatigue details.
· When a member does not spend the night in the military camp, they shall endeavour to arrive in the military camp prior to reveille, to be present for morning roll call and to participate in the unit's activities. Absence from roll calls may result in members being placed on the Orderly Sergeant's "black list" and assigned additional duty.
· All Members shall fall in for roll call unless otherwise excused by the Orderly Sergeant. Members shall fall in for roll call with blouses fully buttoned (not just the top button), with headgear, and with hands free (i.e., no hardtack, coffee cups, etc.). When on campaign, members shall typically fall in for roll calls under arms (with musket and leathers on), unless weapons are stacked. When falling in under arms, members shall fall in at the position of Shoulder Arms. When falling in without weapons, members shall fall in at parade rest and shall remain quiet. When the Orderly Sergeant calls a member's name, the member shall answer with a firm, "Here" (NOT, "Here, First Sergeant!").
· As a general rule, only members who are present for a day's drill will be allowed to participate in the battles, marches, and scenarios.
Company Rolls and Absence from Camp
· On arriving in camp at the beginning of an event, members shall report to the Orderly Sergeant (or, in his absence, the ranking NCO) of the Company so that they can be added to the Company roll.
· If it becomes necessary to leave camp, members should obtain permission from the Orderly Sergeant or the ranking NCO present. Passes to leave camp may be required at Company events.
First-Person Impression
· We would highly encourage proper first-person impression. It is recognised that some members are more enthusiastic and proficient at first-person impression, and all members are asked to act accordingly when others use first person.
· To the greatest extent possible, conversation in camp should be that of the typical Civil War soldier. First-person impression should be used. When first person is not used, members shall restrict 21st-century speech to respectful tones and topics that will not adversely affect the living history experience of others.
Miscellaneous Camp Equipage
· Furniture, such as campstools, is forbidden because soldiers on campaign could not carry such bulky impediments, and wagon transportation would not have been wasted to move it. In camp, members are encouraged to use gum blankets/ponchos or logs upon which to sit. Members are also discouraged from using hay bales for camp furniture, because the modern small hay and straw bales did not exist during the Civil War.
Drinking
· All drinks of any sort shall be transferred to period vessels, and no modern beverage container shall be used or be visible in the camp. Members should remember that the consumption of alcohol was strictly regulated in many regiments and public drunkenness was usually punished. If members choose to risk the censure of their officers and temperate comrades, alcohol shall be consumed from appropriate jugs or dark glass bottles, etc.
Smoking
· If members smoke, they are strongly encouraged to smoke a pipe in lieu of cigarettes, Simple clay pipes or handmade wooden pipes were the most prevalent among enlisted men. Matches shall be used; modern lighters are not allowed. Use of period-correct tobacco is encouraged.
Women in the Ranks
· Women were not allowed to serve as soldiers in the armies of the Civil War era and, as such, visible 'female' soldiers in the ranks are prohibited.
Ladies and Civilians in Camp
· Women are not allowed within the Company Street (with enlisted men) unless a specific vignette has been established and/or approved by the unit commander.
Hair
· Period hairstyles are required. Soldiers generally wore their hair short for reasons of hygiene. Long hair or hair with an obviously modern cut or colour is forbidden.
Jewellery
· It is preferred that jewellery on soldiers be minimised. Wedding rings (simple, non-ornamental rings are preferred) are allowed, as are period-correct jewellery that a soldier may have worn on campaign (for example, a religious medal worn by a Catholic, etc.).
Watches
· Although watches were fairly common in the 1860s, obviously not all soldiers had one. Furthermore, the bugle and his superior officers regulated a soldier's day, thus minimising the necessity for watches. Period-correct watches should have a key wind and a roman-numeral face. Wristwatches are forbidden.
Medication
· Members who are on modern medication should bring them to events so that the member's health is not impaired. Modern medication should be carried in its modern container (containing the prescription information), but concealed in a period poke sack or period container.
DRILL AND MILITARY MANUALS
All members of the Volunteer Company are encouraged to obtain and become familiar with all of the reference works listed below:
· Confederate impression: (Manual of Arms, School of the Soldier, School of the Company, School of the Battalion) will be in accordance with Hardee's Infantry Tactics, 1861.· Union impression: (Manual of Arms, School of the Soldier, School of the Company, School of the Battalion) will be in accordance with Silas Casey's Infantry Tactics, 1862.
· Camp procedures (i.e. guard mount, parade, discipline, etc.) shall be in accordance with the Revised United States Army Regulations of 1861, or the Confederate States Army Regulations, 1863 depending on impression of the event.
· Members are highly encouraged to obtain and become intimately familiar with Customs of Service for Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers (1864), by August Kautz.
· Members are highly encouraged to obtain and become intimately familiar with Parade, Inspection, and Evolutions of the Battalion, by Dominic Dal Bello.
· Members are highly encouraged to obtain and become intimately familiar with Instructions for Guards and Pickets, by Dominic Dal Bello.
· Members who portray officers are highly encouraged to obtain a copy of and become intimately familiar with the pamphlet, "Manual of the Sword" by Dominic Dal Bello.
WEAPONS
Firearms - Union
· Model 1853 Enfield Rifle-musket, .577 calibre: Preferred that Enfields be marked "Tower" (instead of "London Armoury").
· Model 1861 Springfield Rifle-musket, .58 calibre. The Springfield was the most common weapon in the hands of Union troops.
· Model 1863 Springfield Rifle-musket: These weapons are also acceptable but are not encouraged unless of course a late war impression is called for.
· Model 1842 .69 calibre Springfield smoothbores.
· Long-arms other than a .58 calibre Enfield or Springfield will be considered on a case-by-case basis as required by the scenario portrayed.
Firearms - Confederate
· US 1842 Harpers Ferry or Springfield .69 cal. Smoothbore. Stock finished in boiled linseed oil. Burnished finish.
· US 1842 Harpers Ferry or Springfield .69 cal. Rifled, rear sight. Stock finished in boiled linseed oil. Burnished finish.
· US 1855 Rifled Musket .58 cal. Maynard primer with alteration to standard percussion caps. Stock finished in boiled linseed oil. Burnished finish.
· US 1861 Rifled Musket .58 cal. Springfield or Government Contractor. Stock finished in boiled linseed oil. Burnished finish.
· US 1841 Harpers Ferry (Mississippi Rifle) .54 or .58 cal. Acceptable for NCO's and for unit impressions with documented use.
· 1853 Enfield, .577cal. British Manufacture. Blue or Burnished finish. Stock finished with boiled linseed oil.
· 1862 or 1863 CS Arsenal - "Richmond" Rifled Musket .58 cal. Burnished finish. Stock finished with boiled linseed oil. Appropriate for unit impressions with documented use.
· Virginia Manufactory musket - .69 cal. Altered to percussion. Burnished finish. Stock finished with boiled linseed oil. Appropriate for unit impressions with documented use.
· US 1816, 1822, or 1835 musket - .69 cal. Altered to percussion. Burnished finish. Stock finished with boiled linseed oil. Appropriate for unit impressions with documented use.
Notes:
· No two-band rifles shall be carried at any time.
· All original muskets must look new and be in safe and proper working order. Proper modifications of reproduction weapons must include removal of all anachronistic workings, burnishing of questionable parts, replacement of barrel bands, and stamping of correct markings. Weapon type should be appropriate for impression.
· All soldiers should posses a bayonet appropriate for the musket or rifle they are carrying. Bayonets shall have an appropriate scabbard in order for it to be carried.
· All rifle-muskets in the ranks of the Company shall have a functioning half cock and shall be capable of bearing the full weight of the musket when supported only by the trigger.
· All muskets shall be cleaned after firing. A weapons inspection shall be held prior to each firing demonstration and/or battle re-enactment. Unsafe and/or excessively unclean weapons shall not be allowed in the ranks due to the safety hazard they represent.
Safety
· In order to reduce the possibility of an accident or injury to a member of the unit, any guests, spectators or other re-enactors, the Company Commander shall ensure that each participant under his command is able to perform basic loading and firing drill in a safe and efficient manner. New members shall receive mandatory firearms safety indoctrination prior to participating in an event.
· In order to participate in an event, every participant shall submit to a weapons inspection. This inspection shall ensure that the weapon is in proper working order. This inspection shall require A clean and clear bore, no loose or unsafe parts, and that the lock/ safety performs in its proper manner. Hammers shall be inspected to ensure they are centred so they strike the cone evenly and do not crush or deform the percussion caps.
· A cartridge box inspection shall also be performed prior to the commencement of each day's activities. Cartridge boxes will have tins appropriate for the box. No worms, ball screws or other cleaning gear may be carried in the cartridge box.
· In case of a weapon malfunction while on the line, the soldier shall pass his weapon to a sergeant, who will inspect the weapon and attempt to determine if it can be safely repaired. After the weapon is cleared the sergeant will return it to user.
Ammunition (Blank Cartridges)
· Each man will have a full 40 rounds of cartridges in his cartridge box when the Company falls in for each Battle or firing display. Each man will have enough percussion caps in his cap box to fire the required 40 rounds in his cartridge box. The only exception to this rule is when the company participates in an event where carrying of ammunition and caps is prohibited.
· Each cartridge will contain no more that 60 grains of black powder.
· Blank cartridges shall not be carried loose in cartridge boxes; all cartridge boxes will have the proper cartridge box tins. For safety reasons, members must not carry cartridges in their pockets.
· Cartridges must be made of proper paper material. Newspaper, notepad paper, and other inauthentic materials shall not be used.
Rifle Straps
Members may choose to equip their rifles with straps (also known today as, "slings"). Rifle straps should be russet leather, 46 inches long and between 1 and 1-1/8 inches wide. A cast or sheet-brass hook should be sewn and riveted to one end. All loops to be sewn construction, with no staples or rivets used in the construction or attachment. Enfield rifle-muskets should be fitted with a U.S.-pattern strap with an extra hole or two added.
Prohibitions
· Long knives shall never be carried at any time.
· Only officers may carry pistols.
· Live ammunition shall never be carried by any member at any event
Commissioned Officer Weapons
· All officers on duty shall always carry a sword. Plain or engraved blades are acceptable. The hilt of the sword (where the blade meets the guard) should have a piece of leather of the same size as the head of the scabbard to act as a 'seal' when the sword is sheathed. Note that swords that have a "nut" on the end of the pommel are unacceptable. Use of officer's sword knot is at the discretion of the officer. Scabbards shall have a brass throat with a brass loop to attach to the swivel snap on the sword belt, and a brass drag with a second brass loop approximately one-third of the way down the scabbard. Scabbard for the Model 1850 foot officer's sword should be black glazed leather.
· Use of a side arm by commissioned officers is optional. Choice of side arm is at the discretion of the officer. The most common handguns appear to have been the 32 calibre 'pocket' pistols, small cartridge revolvers, and the occasional .36 Colt's Navy.
Copyright ©2005.
Website design by Keith Jackman
For site related comments and questions or to report any problems with this
site
please contact the Webmaster