79th New York Highlanders Reg.

**macneighill** · 30th October 08, 06:40 PM

Originally Posted by Kilted Rogue

Do you have a source that says they didnt wear the Kilt?

and since we are being so specific that blue is called Kersy Blue.

If I may chime in here . . my first thought is, US Army regulations, 1861. But, as there were quite a few states that, issued their own special uniforms, or what are known as "non-regulation uniforms", not all uniforms were to exact Army regulations. You may also want to read the "Regimental History" of the 79th New York. And definitely, may I also recommend reading personal accounts from the officers and soldiers of the 79th NY (i.e. personal memoirs/recollections, official reports, etc.). Even reviewing period photos (and not just those of the 79th NY wearing the kilt). Most of the War time photos were "staged", per se. These were taken in some kind of a studio (whether out on the field under the cover or a sheet of cloth or branches or even a backdrop cloth with some props). You will notice that I said "most", not all photos were staged. These are the photos you see of a soldier with 3 pistols and a sword in his hand or, a group of officers/soldiers sitting in chairs/standing, each staring in a different direction (this was typical of the period).

Besides, I don't think that, kilts would have been very practical for fatigue duty or, even out on the field of battle during the American Civil War nor, that the Regiment would have wanted to wear them under such conditions. Here is an account (from http://www.celticpiper.net/79th.htm):

It is not clear if all of the pre-war companies (six companies of about 50 men each) were given the full-dress uniform with kilts. In common with other pre-war militia units, each company may have had a different uniform, and each soldier probably was issued various orders of dress. Whereas the full dress uniform consisted of Glengarry (Scottish cap), tunic, kilt, sporran (hairy purse), hose (socks), and buckled shoes, a second uniform consisted of kepi (typical Civil War cap), tunic (the same as the full dress tunic), tartan trousers, and normal Army shoes. When the regiment went to war in 1861 it was this second uniform which was worn. Numerous photographs and engravings show that the full-dress tunic and tartan trousers were worn on active service. As the war progressed and these unique items wore out they were replaced by standard Army-issue blue trousers and navy blue “sack coats”. By mid-war the 79th NYSM was scarcely distinguishable from any other Union regiment.