Uniform
This list is to assist the new member in what he needs for a
basic impression.
Later he can acquire the rest of his kit to
round out and personalize his impression.
Remember it is best to
consult a veteran before making a purchase!
4 Button Federal Blouse (sack coat):
Of dark blue flannel (wool) extending half the distance of the thigh. Made loose with or without body or sleeve lining.
4 brass eagle buttons evenly spaced down the front. No buttons on the
cuffs.
Trousers:
General order no. 108 headquarters of the army, December 16, 1861 authorized sky-blue as the color.
Wool kersey. Privates plain, no stripe or welt. Made loose fitting no plaits.
Sgt 1 1/2 in stripe, Corp 1/2 in stripe.
Braces/suspenders :
Period braces were made from ticking or cotton duck and attached via buttons. However, elastic did exist and are more comfortable.
All suspenders should attach with buttons NO METAL CLIPS!
Shirts:
Federal shirts were usually flannel (wool) or cotton white with one button closure. Most of the men
received shirts from home. All period styles, colors, and patterns are acceptable.
Socks:
Wool natural, brown, or gray preferably long enough to blouse pants.
No stripes at top. A soldier should have two pairs.
Shoes:
Brogans, Federal issue Jefferson bootee, square-toed, low cut shoes leather sole and heel stitched or
pegged. Black smooth or rough out uppers. Boots were expensive and sometimes confiscated off dead soldiers and if worn should be covered by the pants.
(probably one of the first purchases of the "fresh fish" a good pair of brogans is the start of a great impression and a comfortable,
enjoyable re-enactment. Most of the veterans have extra uniforms but few have extra shoes in a size to fit.)
Bayonet:
Suitable to fit your rifle with scabbard or frog and scabbard on the Enfield
... scabbard MUST have brass end cap!!
Cap Box:
Made of black bridle leather length & depth of 3 in. X 1 1/4 in. wide with an inner waterproof flap.
The finial to be made of unplated yellow brass. Made of strong leather so they do not collapse. A Gaylord style or front shield type is preferred.
Cartridge Box & Sling (strap):
Black leather cartridge box with US box plate mounted in center and
eagle breast plate on sling.
Canteen:
The US regulation canteen was made of tin with an outer covering of blue,
brown, or gray wool. White cloth strap on most but early models also came with a black leather
strap. The 50th encourages the use of stainless steel unless you like the taste of
rust. (One cannot go on the field without a canteen full of water.)
Haversack:
Regulation haversacks were black - tarred (oilcloth) with an inner liner.
