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:sarcasticHere is a link to an interesting ebay listing of a Republic or Texas regulation uniform ca. 1839. Correct me if I'm wrong, but does that look like extensive machine sewing to the quilted/padded chest? Looks like an awefully fine quality garment for frontier Texas. The belt rig looks good though.
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Christopher E. McBroom, Capt.
16th Ark. Infantry - 1st Arkansas Battalion, C.S.A.
Little Rock Castle No. 1
Order of Knights of the Golden Circle -
Re: c. 1836 Republic of Texas uniform on ebay!
I noticed the machine sewing, and wondered the same as you.
So I forwarded the link to a friend of mine knowledgeable on Texas history, uniforms, and such, and he has given me permission to repost his thoughts on the subject. I have also included his e-mail, in case anyone would like to continue the conversation personally with him, as he is not an A-C member. -Fred
As to the question on whether this is the real thing, he writes:
"Clearly not. Looks to be a late Victorian or Edwardian diplomatic coat – or some Mediterranean nation’s idea of mess dress. It looks like it hooks up the front. The lining looks machine done and is very consistent with linings found in late 1860's and beyond tailcoats, the back of the breast pieces are NOT faced with wool, which is common on most gentlemen's tailcoats from regency to 1840's. Collar shape, and height is also suspect and not what I would expect to find on a 1830's - early 40's coat.
I have attached the Republic of Texas regulations. The coat is not double breasted - but someone has made it so - I would be interested to know if they made the holes or replaced existing buttons. On second look, it looks like the buttons are sewn to the outside of the wool – which tells me they were added later.
The vest button holes - may be hand bound - but look like a machine made tailor's button hole to me.
The sash appears to be some kind of tri-color - consistent with a French Mayor's official sash - worn since Napoleonic times.
Can't see much of the trowsers save the buttons appear to be hard rubber or plastic - ie look like buttons I see on dress trowsers from 1890-1910. That they are fall front is kind of weird, but not impossible for late 19th century, especially if they are diplomatic clothing.
Caveat Emptor
Kirk D. Lyons
staff@differentdrummer.biz
PS I see the bidding is only up to $6000. If it were real it could fetch upwards of a $100K"Fred D. Taylor
Co. G, Portsmouth Rifles
9th Virginia Infantry
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