1st Maryland Cavalry
Dismounts "Skirmishers"
The trooper in the 1st Maryland Cavalry will try to accurately portray both the mounted and dismounted cavalryman while on the reenactment field, demonstrating both mounted and dismounted tactics used by the 1st Maryland Cavalry during the War Between the States. The dismounted impression in the 1st Maryland Cavalry is that of a mounted trooper who is fighting on foot with his horse to the rear, thus the uniform and weaponry requirements are the same for both the mounted and dismounted trooper, however, the dismounted trooper will NOT carry his saber into the field as a skirmisher. While in camp the mounted trooper will also demonstrate to the public the many responsibilities of a cavalryman in regards to his mount (i.e. grooming, training).
Equipment List for the Enlisted Trooper—everything does NOT need to be purchased right away
A comprehensive list for the new reenactor
Uniform & clothing
Shell jacket: PREFERED:
Richmond Depot III in blue/gray kersey . ACCEPTABLE: Richmond Depot II or III in blue/gray kersey, medium gray kersey or gray jean cloth No trim!Buttons:
Block “C” buttons for mounted and dismounted cavalry; block “A” for artillery, “CSA” buttons all right for all branches, or Maryland, 3 piece, hollow muffin-style buttons for all branches.Trousers:
Federal sky blue is preferred, medium gray allowed in a few casesShirts:
unbleached muslin or woven pattern, prints are acceptable.Socks:
Rag wool or Confederate cotton.Suspenders:
Canvas with leather tabs .Shoes:
Brogans or Cavalry boots with heal platesVest:
No 19th Century man was completely dressed without a vest. Civilian vests are equally acceptable to military styles.Accoutrements
Waist Belt with buckle:
Maryland oval or CSA oval buckle with black leather belt. Or saber belt with shoulder belt and saber hangers and rectangular MD belt buckle.Cap box:
Black leather.Carbine Cartridge:
box, belt mounted, black leather.Canteen:
Tin drum or wood styles. Cavalry harness from Blockade Runner OK—a “must-have” item.Haversack:
Black "tarred" or white cotton.Eating utensils
: Tin cup, Tin plate , Knife, Fork, & Spoon.(stainless steel is acceptable in place of tin for all items)
Weapons
Carbine:
1859/63 Sharps, or Smith Breech loader; J.P. Murray, Cook & Brother, or Enfield Musketoon muzzle loaders. 3-bander Enfield, Springfield or Mississippi Rifle are also appropriate to a Confederate Cavalry impression.Revolver:
.44 cal Colt army/navy, .36 cal Colt army/navy or ’58 new army Remington, steel frame only—BRASS FRAME IS NOT AUTHENTIC--W/ black leather, right hip, butt forward flap holster.Tent
6 foot A frame 6' high & deep 8'4" wide
9 foot A frame 6' high, 9' deep
7 foot tall A frame 7' high, 9' deep w/ 1 door
All tents are canvas only. You will need to oreder a “set-up” kit if offered by the vendor, or construct a wood pole set for them and obtain iron stakes. Talk to a member on how to do this. You can order tents from R&K sutler or Blockade Runner on the internet.
Bed roll or cot.
Cots and sleeping bags may be used but must be covered with a wool blanket or subdued quilt, or secured from public view.Foul Weather gear
Greatcoat: gray wool (blue wool is acceptable) $ 165
Gum blanket: w/ neck slash.
This is a basic list to get you started you will undoubtedly find other goodies on the way.
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