Original Items: Only One Set Available. Between the early 1870s and early 1880s, a considerable lack of uniformity was noted in army clothing, particularly in the field uniform. A closer look at period photographs reveals that even within the same company, there were up to four different patterns and several variations of uniforms simultaneously. This lack of consistency was primarily due to the surplus of uniforms and equipment that the Army Quartermaster Department had at the end of the Civil War.

Initially, the surplus of uniforms and equipment seemed sufficient to last many years. However, by 1871, the Army faced a crisis as the stocks of the most needed sizes were depleted. This led to a shortage of essential items, such as shoes, blankets, and clothing items, which was becoming increasingly problematic. As a result, Congress was informed of the issue through the Secretary of War, and budget expenditures were authorized for the acquisition of new clothing and accouterments beginning in Fiscal Year 1872.

The acquisition of new clothing and accouterments was a significant step towards addressing the issue of the shortage of essential items. The items here would have been a part of this acquisition. The acquisition focused on ensuring consistency in the field uniform, which was a crucial step in ensuring that the army was well-equipped to face any challenges that may arise.

The items in this lot:
- Model 1889 Campaign Hat - “Snowflake” Vent Model: This example bears correct "snowflake" punched pattern vents on both sides. The brim has three lines of stitching with some stitching loss visible. The hat ribbon bows appear as being unwraveled. These felt hats became symbolic of the Army on the western frontier and today is one of the most highly prized pieces of military headgear. The cap no longer has a leather sweatband, though it does appears to have been intentionally removed. Overall condition is nice but quite worn.

- Pattern 1885 Fatigue Sack Coat & Trousers: U.S. Army Issue Pattern 1885 Fatigue Blouse (AKA “Sack Coat”). Standard Issue to every U.S. Army Soldier during the late Indian Wars and Spanish-American War, up through the transition to the Model 1902 Coat which was the 1887’s (last model) Successor. These were intended to be a loose-fitting garment for wear in the field, as opposed to a tailored parade uniform, these were utilitarian by design. Both items are offered in wonderful condition but are not without the expected moth nips, loose stitching and small tears.

- M-1874 Saber Belt With Holster: Dating from the Indian Wars in the 1870s and 1880s, this is known as a Model 1874 Waist Belt, as used by the U.S. Army for the last decades of the 19th Century. It is of simple sturdy leather construction, with a heavy U.S. Brass Belt Plate Buckle, with a hook on the back that attaches to the end fitting on the other end. The belt could be used to suspend holsters, ammunition cartridges, and other field gear items for use in combat. This belt is set up for cavalry use and has very nice sword hangers attached as well as a leather holster. While the leather is very fragile in areas, it is still in fantastic condition given the age.

- M1878 Canteen with Leather Shoulder Strap: US M1878 Canteen with a tan canvas cover with a very clear early style U.S. stencil on the front, in very good condition with the original issue sling. There is wear present but is otherwise presented in wonderful condition with the original cork stopper as well!

This is a wonderful opportunity to add a “ready to display” uniform lot! Comes more than ready for further research and display.

Approximate Measurements:
Collar to shoulder: 9"
Shoulder to sleeve: 24”
Shoulder to shoulder: 14”
Chest width: 18"
Waist width: 17"
Hip width: 18"
Front length: 30"

Pants:
Waist: 16"
Inseam: 30"