Santa Fe, Feb. 15, 2009 -- The American Civil War was the biggest and bloodiest war on our home turf. From 1861 to 1865 a total of 3.5 million men fought for both sides.
The average northern Civil War cavalry recruit had never even been on a horse’s back. The horse soldiers had to be taught how to mount and balance in the saddle. Their rattling sabers often scared, or, worse yet, pricked their horses who reared up and threw, dragged or kicked them.
During the First Battle of Bull Run, some Rebel troops were wearing blue. Some Union troops were garbed in gray creating all kinds of friendly fire on the battlefield.
The industrialized North had a much easier time outfitting their troops than the rural South. Union cavalry dress was much the same as for the infantry. But, the horse soldiers had shorter jackets, boots instead of shoes and pants reinforced in the seat and legs for riding. Cavalry uniforms in the north were not as colorful as the Confederate.
On Oct. 28, Cowan’s, Cincinnati, Ohio, featured a Historic Firearms and Early Militaria auction. Included in the sale was a selection of Civil War Union uniforms. Here are some current values for uniforms.
Union Uniforms
Artillery Shell Jacket; 12 buttons; blue wool; with red piped trim; $1,840.
Frock Coat; Lieutenant’s nine button coat; dark blue wool; $2,185.
Frock Coat; epaulets and sash; 14 buttons; dark blue wool; belonged to Lt. Col. H. Kellogg; 123rd OVI; an uncommon late-war frock; with fold-down collar; $7,800.
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