Enlisted Uniforms 1874
The army made a number of strides to improve the look and life of the American Soldier with the 1872 line-up of uniforms and equipment. After these models went into the field, the quartermaster department sought feedback from the soldiers. The soldiers had lots to say and what they chose to use in the field spoke volumes. In 1874 a new effort was issued to the soldiers.
Our soldier has taken a very relaxed look to his "campaign" outfit. As the 1870's continued the army passed through a number of challenges in the west. The quartermaster department added a number of items through these troubled years. Seen around the soldiers waist is the 1876 cartridge belt, an official issue that replaced the soldier supplied thimble, or prairie belts, made or privately purchased. The 1876 belt was made of folded canvas over a leather belt and cartridge loops coated with varnish. Suspended from the soldiers belt is another attempt to supply the soldier with an entrenching tool, the 1873 Hagner entrenching tool.
The 1870's brought change to the country, the army, and even the individual soldier. During this time it is important to consider that the equipment and uniforms discussed to this point were all issued and used until the stocks were exhausted. The army of the time period, and especially at the far dispersed forts and camps of the west looked a bit odd, or un-uniformed as detailed by the Chief Quartermaster Marshell I. Ludington's circular dated Aug 4th, 1876 that listed the clothing supplied to George Crookes Big Horn expedition in March of 1876. In part it inventoried
80 Pattern 1874 blouses
102 Pattern 1872 blouses
1,149 pattern 1858 blouses.
Changes in uniform and equipment would continue in the following decade. This series of innovations would decide on what the soldier would wear and carry into the new century.
80 Pattern 1874 blouses
102 Pattern 1872 blouses
1,149 pattern 1858 blouses.
Changes in uniform and equipment would continue in the following decade. This series of innovations would decide on what the soldier would wear and carry into the new century.