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I apologize if these questions are too "basic", but I have searched the forum, and gone through numerous photos on the LoC site and books -- and while I have found some great information on U.S. Issue shirts, and the construction of civiian shirts, I'm not sure if I have found the answer to a couple of basic questions that I am looking for.
First, when civilian shirts were worn, how often were these shirts white linen, or unbleached muslin -- versus checks, other patterns, or solid colors?
I read in one thread on this site that white linen and unbleached muslin were the most common materials for civilian shirts. Does that mean an unbleached muslin shirt (no, not talking sutler row here) would have actually been P.E.C.?
Second, during the summer, were issue shirts more frequently found being worn than a civilian shirt sent from home or purchased from a sutler? Or would they have been disgarded along with their overcoat come spring? Unfortunately I do not have an eye trained to tell the difference between very many shirts in period photos.
I'd appreciate any information that can be given.
Thanks!
First, when civilian shirts were worn, how often were these shirts white linen, or unbleached muslin -- versus checks, other patterns, or solid colors?
I read in one thread on this site that white linen and unbleached muslin were the most common materials for civilian shirts. Does that mean an unbleached muslin shirt (no, not talking sutler row here) would have actually been P.E.C.?
Second, during the summer, were issue shirts more frequently found being worn than a civilian shirt sent from home or purchased from a sutler? Or would they have been disgarded along with their overcoat come spring? Unfortunately I do not have an eye trained to tell the difference between very many shirts in period photos.
I'd appreciate any information that can be given.
Thanks!
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