A shell with tails...

[Spongebucket]

Re: A shell with tails...

The garment that the original photos and the one that Hodnett showed are a coatee. Note how the tail is part of the body. This was similar in the 1810 thru to 1852 (ish). Same construct was used in civilian garments. The blue-grey jean cloth one is a "cut-away" coat or like the NY walking coat. It is essentially a frock coat with the skirts cut back. It does give the look of a coatee...just some different constuction methods. All really cool though. Have always liked that coatee, both the photos and the original in the Sam Davis home.
Cheers,
Joe Blunt

[BrettKIllinois]

Re: A shell with tails...

Now my question is, where can I obtain a correct Coatee pattern?

-Brett

[GreencoatCross]

Re: A shell with tails...

My suggestion is that you track down and contact Jim Ruley. Jim has given lectures at the Ladies & Gentlemen of the 1860's conferences about period tailoring techniques and I know that he has made more than a few coatees for himself as well as customers. He's one of the few guys out there who has a complete understanding of Devere's patterning methods; needless to say, his work is absolutely outstanding. If you have the skill level to sew a frock you may be able to purchase a custom-drafted coatee pattern from him for a reasonable price...just make sure you give him all the details of your project (i.e. military style coatee, stand-up collar, non-functional cuffs, etc.) and you won't be disappointed.

Good luck!

[BrettKIllinois]

Re: A shell with tails...

Thanks a lot Brian.

[Palmyra Possum]

Re: A shell with tails...

Yes, I know I am posting on a thread that has been dead for over seven years.

I noticed the pictures of the Richard Alexander coat are no longer here. Anyone have these pictures? I'm interested in learning more about this coat. Also, this thread identifies him as Richard Alexander, Co. K, 2nd Tennessee. However, I have also seen him identified as Richard Alexander, Co. B, 6th Tennessee (http://yellowhammerrifles.tripod.com/davis.htm, here for example). The Soldiers & Sailors database lists a Richard Alexander in both of those companies. Can anyone confirm which one owned this coat?

[Bill52]

Re: A shell with tails...

This style of coat was still seen in state militia companies up to and after the Civil War. A few units, both North and South, adopted this type of coat in a rather plain style that differed from the more traditional dress style usually seen. Two examples were the 19th Alabama Regiment, and 2nd Hew Hampshire Volunteers.