CDV- Indian Wars Infantryman In Transitional Uniform – SOLD

Description

A fabulous image that redefines what “Regulation” meant in this early period of the Indian Wars C-1872. This soldier who’s regiment I can’t determine (being a two digit number within the loop of the horn), is wearing a number of uniform components that by regulation should not be done.

First this private is wearing his M1858 frock coat with shoulder scales, which would presumably have been replaced with the new M1872 coat by late ’72, early ’73.  The coat looks rather short for this soldier being so high above the knees The Hardee Hat was replaced the same year with the M1872 shako, seen here wearing the hat in the 1868-72 regulations with the right side brim turned up.

What is really hard to grasp is the M1872 enlisted cavalry mounted belt used with the brace system of that year. With all of these mixed items and considering the date of this image I have to assume that the bayonet scabbard must be a Hoffman pattern. with a 1855 bayonet used on the 1866 or 1868 Springfield Rifle.

The image was taken by J.B. Webster, Louisville, Ky., perhaps this soldier was with a regiment going to the west and had his photo taken in Kentucky on the way out.  Obviously, the right “regulation” uniform and equipment patterns had not caught up to this regiment.  A super image showing just how disorganized the quartermaster and ordnance departments were in getting the issue material to the troops in this early period of the Indian Wars.

There is some roughness at the bottom affecting the mount, but the image itself does have some issues; light, some soiling.  Still, most important despite the condition problems.

A must for the student of the Indian Wars.

From the Mike McAfee Collection.