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In building my first researched unit impression, I am trying to determine which English accoutrements, if any, are appropriate for the 1st Texas Infantry, ANV, during the spring battles of 1862. In doing research on the 1st Texas Infantry from 1861 into 1862, I am looking to determine what items were discarded (or had already failed) as new rifled muskets were issued, or were replaced to facilitate their integration. Particularly, I am wondering what the service life of the leather equipment - such as belts - might have been.
Members of the 1st Texas received some equipment by companies before leaving Texas, and may have picked up some items along the way in New Orleans and elsewhere. Since companies of the 1st Texas continued arriving in Virginia until October of 1861, differences in their equipment were sure to exist going forward, at least for a time. The gradual replacement of the frock coat is one example.
Robert Alton discusses items found at what appears to be a winter camp of the 1st Texas, which is seen in the famous photos discussed elsewhere. The images and finds at the site support forked tongue buckled belts. As a novice, I am unable to identify the bayonets or lead closure buttons Mr. Alton puts at the camp, so help with that would be appreciated.
My research questions, submitted for your guidance:
What records would be helpful in determining whether new leather accoutrements were replacing the more individualized company equipment? What items would typically accompany issue of the Enfield or other rifle musket? What would the service life of these accoutrements be?
Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Matthew Casey
Members of the 1st Texas received some equipment by companies before leaving Texas, and may have picked up some items along the way in New Orleans and elsewhere. Since companies of the 1st Texas continued arriving in Virginia until October of 1861, differences in their equipment were sure to exist going forward, at least for a time. The gradual replacement of the frock coat is one example.
Robert Alton discusses items found at what appears to be a winter camp of the 1st Texas, which is seen in the famous photos discussed elsewhere. The images and finds at the site support forked tongue buckled belts. As a novice, I am unable to identify the bayonets or lead closure buttons Mr. Alton puts at the camp, so help with that would be appreciated.
My research questions, submitted for your guidance:
What records would be helpful in determining whether new leather accoutrements were replacing the more individualized company equipment? What items would typically accompany issue of the Enfield or other rifle musket? What would the service life of these accoutrements be?
Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Matthew Casey