Uniform question

[Robin C]

Looking for help concerning union chaplain uniforms. I know the black frock with stand up collar and 9 buttons in accordance with the 1861 orders. Question is could or would this uniform have been made custom as he would have been considered a officer?? Say, different cuffs,or pockets than issued frocks--

[Mississippian]

Re: Uniform question

Chaplains provided their own clothing, some of them mirrored uniform regulations, some of them preferred an almost civilian look, depending on their own tastes.

Will MacDonald

[Pennvolunteer]

Re: Uniform question

Did research on this a few years back. Regulations called for the black frock and trousers, but as in all things, you find variation from the rules. There are photos of Chaplains, early on especially who wore Captain's uniforms, the reasoning being as I understood it that they were paid the same rate as Cavalry captains. I even found a photo of a Chaplain who was almost indistinguishable from a line officer to include saber, but clearly not within Army Regulations. I also found variations in headgear; some wearing forage caps or Kepis with staff officer insignia, and some with a variety of brimmed hats.
Some of the variations I found; Group of Chaplains at Petersburg and note all different takes on the uniform frock, Chaplain Vogel of 61st NY and CH Michael Allen of the 5th PA cavalry;

[Robin C]

Re: Uniform question

Thank you for the help! Is there a meaning behind the 9 buttons that is known?

[Silas]

Re: Uniform question

Generally speaking, nine buttons in one row means line officer.