The American Civil War era was marked by distinct uniforms that played a crucial role in differentiating between the Confederate and Federal armies. For enthusiasts and historical reenactors focusing on cavalry units, understanding the nuances of the Civil War Cavalry Uniform is essential. This guide, drawing from historical context, outlines the typical attire of both Confederate and Federal cavalry soldiers, particularly those who served in the often-overlooked Western theater, such as New Mexico.
The portrayal of Confederate soldiers, particularly in the New Mexico area, often deviates from the stereotypical “grey or butternut” image. Enlisted Confederate cavalrymen in this region rarely donned standard Confederate uniforms. Instead, practicality and availability dictated their appearance. Officers might have worn recognizable Confederate uniforms, but the rank and file frequently utilized captured Union clothing or civilian garments acquired in Texas and New Mexico. This resulted in a diverse and somewhat unconventional look for Confederate cavalry in the Southwest.
Historical Re-Enactors
Historical Re-Enactors showcasing the diverse attire of Confederate soldiers, highlighting civilian and captured Union elements common in the New Mexico theater.
Confederate Cavalry Uniform Components in New Mexico:
Due to supply shortages and opportunistic scavenging, the Confederate cavalryman’s uniform in New Mexico was often a patchwork of available items. Here’s a breakdown:
- Hats: Confederate cavalry headwear was far from uniform. Broad-brimmed felt or straw hats, similar to Union forage caps, were common for protection from the harsh Southwestern sun. Wheel caps and even civilian hats of the period were also utilized. Hardee hats, though more formal, could also be seen. For cavalry, a hat that stayed firmly on the head during maneuvers was crucial, making wider brims and secure fits preferable.
Confederate Soldier
Confederate cavalry impression demonstrating the use of civilian-style hat and jacket, typical of the resourceful adaptations seen in the Confederate army.
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Coats & Jackets: Captured Federal sack coats or shell jackets were incredibly common within Confederate ranks, including cavalry units. These practical and readily available items were invaluable. Civilian sack or frock coats were also frequently worn, reflecting the reliance on civilian supplies. Mexican War surplus clothing might have also been incorporated, adding to the eclectic mix. For cavalry, shorter jackets like shell jackets were more practical for riding than long frock coats.
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Shirts: Civilian shirts made from cotton, wool, muslin, or other period-appropriate materials were standard. “Battle” overshirts, designed for durability, and even captured Federal issue shirts were also part of the Confederate cavalryman’s wardrobe. Breathable and comfortable shirts were essential for the strenuous activity of cavalry service, especially in the heat.
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Trousers: Civilian pattern trousers, crafted from durable materials like wool, corduroy, cotton duck, or jeans cloth (a wool-cotton blend), were common. Captured Federal issue trousers were also widely used. Interestingly, Mexican-style vaquero trousers might have been seen, reflecting the regional influences. For cavalry, trousers needed to be robust enough for riding and the wear and tear of saddle life.
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Footwear: Military brogans or sturdy boots were the preferred cavalry footwear. Civilian shoes or boots were also used when military options were unavailable. Durable, supportive footwear was paramount for cavalry troopers who spent long hours in the saddle and on foot.
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Accoutrements: Confederate cavalrymen were adept at utilizing captured Federal equipment. Cartridge boxes, canteens, haversacks, belts, cap pouches, and bayonets from Federal sources were common. Belt knives were standard issue. Mexican War surplus equipment and civilian/homemade gear supplemented these captured items. Reliable accoutrements were vital for carrying ammunition, rations, and personal items during cavalry operations.
Confederate Solider
Another portrayal of a Confederate soldier, emphasizing the mix-and-match nature of their uniforms, incorporating civilian and military elements.
Federal Cavalry Uniforms in the Southwest:
In contrast to their Confederate counterparts in the New Mexico theater, Federal cavalry units, including California, Colorado, and New Mexico Volunteers, generally adhered to standard Federal issue uniforms. The Union army’s superior supply lines ensured that Federal troops had easier access to regulation clothing and equipment.
Confederate Soldier
Confederate infantryman illustrating the use of captured Federal overcoat and trousers, common within Confederate forces and highlighting the uniform variations.
Key elements of the Federal cavalry uniform included:
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Hats: Hardee hats and Union forage caps were regulation headwear. Broad-brimmed felt or straw hats also saw use, particularly in sunnier climates. Cavalry units often had distinctive hat cords and insignia to denote their branch of service.
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Coats & Jackets: Federal frock coats, sack coats, or shell jackets were all appropriate for Federal cavalry. The choice often depended on the formality of the occasion and personal preference. Shell jackets were favored for their practicality in the field.
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Shirts: Federal issue shirts were standard. Civilian shirts made from cotton, wool, muslin, or similar materials were also acceptable, particularly for officers or as supplementary garments.
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Trousers: Federal issue trousers were the norm for Federal cavalry. These were typically sky-blue kersey wool for enlisted men and darker blue for officers. Cavalry trousers often had reinforced seats for durability in riding.
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Footwear: Military brogans or boots were issued to enlisted Federal cavalrymen. Officers might wear civilian shoes or boots, often of higher quality. Cavalry boots needed to be robust and provide ankle support for riding.
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Accoutrements: Federal cavalry were equipped with standard Federal issue accoutrements: cartridge boxes, canteens, haversacks, belts, cap pouches, and bayonets. Belt knives were also part of their standard gear. Federal cavalry equipment was generally more standardized and readily available than Confederate supplies.
Federal Soldier
Federal soldier in standard uniform, showcasing the typical appearance of Union troops with Hardee hat and sack coat.
Federal Soldier
Another example of a Federal soldier’s uniform, highlighting the consistent and regulated appearance of Union troops compared to their Confederate counterparts.
Understanding the civil war cavalry uniform requires acknowledging the differences between the Confederate and Federal armies, as well as the regional variations, particularly in the Western theater. While Federal cavalry generally presented a more standardized appearance, Confederate cavalry, especially in areas like New Mexico, were characterized by resourcefulness and adaptation, resulting in a diverse and unique visual representation. For those interested in further detail, resources like cavalry guidelines provide more specific information.
