During the War of 1812, the general soldier’s uniform was designed for practicality and identification. A key feature was the “tombstone” shako cap. This tall, black headdress had a flat top and extended slightly outwards at the crown. Initially crafted from felt, these shakos were later produced using leather to enhance their resistance to various weather conditions. The cap plate prominently displayed the unit’s insignia, and it was adorned with a white wool plume for infantry, while artillery soldiers were distinguished by yellow tassels on a braided cord.
The primary garment was a single-breasted coatee. This coat featured ten metal button closures and a high, standing collar trimmed with white lace. While the regulation color was a dark blue, shortages of dye led to the utilization of gray, brown, and even green wools in some instances.
Layered beneath the coatee, soldiers wore a waistcoat, or vest, which also had a standing collar designed to be worn over the shirt. Summer waistcoats were made from linen for breathability, whereas winter versions were constructed from wool for added warmth. Shirts themselves were fashioned from linen and were designed to be long and loose-fitting, complete with long sleeves and a substantial collar, often serving double duty as sleepwear.
By the War of 1812, trousers had become standard issue, replacing earlier breeches and overalls. Mirroring the waistcoat, summer trousers were made of white linen, while winter trousers were typically gray-blue or white wool, providing seasonal adaptability to the 1812 Uniforms.
To complete the uniform, soldiers were equipped with gaiters. These leg coverings, made of black wool or canvas, served to protect the legs when navigating rough terrain and prevented dirt from entering the shoes. Worn over the trouser legs, gaiters reached just below the knee and were secured with a strap that fastened under the boot.
