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Post by Greg Carter on Mar 13, 2004 1:27:10 GMT -5
Just for information of anyone interested, I plan to revise and lengthen my old article on US uniforms this weekend and submit it for posting on the main web page this week sometime.
GMC
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Post by pshrake on May 11, 2004 22:49:52 GMT -5
I have just read your new Article Greg and must say
FIRST RATE!!
Pete
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Post by Larry Koschkee on May 12, 2004 9:34:05 GMT -5
Read and re-read your excellent article, Greg. It gave me a stark image of the U.S. Army (circa 1832) under campaign conditions that I had never really gave much thought to. Does not appear to be much "spit and shine" here. Am I wrong in saying that it sort of conjures up a picture of a "rag-tag" bunch of foot soldiers?
There is a well used marketing statement in the fashion and garment industry. Clothes Make The Man! I wonder if the lack of good clothing or shoes had an effect on the moral or esteem of the foot soldier?
A few questions here:
1) General Scott's store estimate at Chicago listed "200 prs bootees" and "500 prs shoes." Is there a difference between the two?
2) Also, Scott listed "500 prs stocking" and I believe the article referenced "socks" somewhere Is there a difference between the two?
3) Any thoughts or information on practical laundry procedures or techniques to keep the wool garments clean.
Once again, I really enjoyed your article.
Larry Koschkee
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Post by Greg Carter on May 12, 2004 23:42:28 GMT -5
Larry and Pete,
Thanks both for your compliments! From guys of your immense knowledge on this period that makes my pride shine!
Some answers, I think:
Shoes vs. Boots- The US Army regulation footwear for enlisted men in 1832 was a boot or bootee similar in appearance to a Civil War "Brogan", only with straight lasts and a higher "upper" that rose to the calf rather than the ankle. I suspect the "shoes" are just that- low quarter shoes, perhaps for light duty or something.
Socks vs. Stockings- I don't have an answer here. I suspect they are the same thing, but I am afraid I have to defer to persons of higher knowledge than I. More research is definitely wanting.
I suspect in the field in 1832, the only practical way to keep the uniforms clean would be to wash them in any available water source, perhaps with soap or without. I recall a request for rations or something from either Scott or Atkinson specifically listing a large quantity of soap. On the bright side, since the 1821 winter service roundabout had no liner, so it dried fast!
GMC
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Post by Greg Carter on Oct 13, 2004 23:52:46 GMT -5
Larry's remark about the "rag-tag" appearance of the soldiers has prompted me to do some more research, from 1812-1840, comparing what I few accounts and remarks I can find. I hope to have it in print and on the OLRHS site in a week or so. I just have to apply the finishing touches.
The only preview I will note is this- more disturbing findings.
GMC
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