Manassas- Union Troops Dressed Up Based On French Uniforms!

[muzzleloader]

This is a fact-This was very much found in the Manassas Battle-They actually were very much in love with the French and emulated them- Maine and NY troops wore these red, blue and outrageous colored uniforms. Union troops had these unique uniforms - it was never all blue as Grant or Sherman wore.

[johan_steele]

Muzzleloader; units were garbed as Zouves throughout the entire war... ironically Zouves dress was based on North African tribesman serving w/ the French Army.

French uniforms were common on both sides of the Mason Dixon both Zouve style dress and elements of Regulation French Army Dress. Several North Eastern states issued full uniforms & kit that were French pattern. The CS issued many trousers & packs originally destined for the French Army.

French Arms were initially issued all over the place on both sides of the line... some were 1st rate arms; most were not.

The kepi... was a direct copy of a French cap.

French military practices were considered the epitome of the day and if copying is flattery the French should have been flattered.

[blue_zouave]

Let me tell you about zouaves...

This is a link to MY unit.
http://www.76thpenn.100thpenn.com/76thPennmain.htm

Zou

[billywilson]

The north had many zouave regiments,but the most practical

zouave uniform {or no uniform,if you wish} was Wilson's zouaves

of the 6th N.Y commanded by Col. Billy Wilson.

The uni consisted of a gray shirt coat and blue trousers

complete with slouch hat. From today's view point it makes sense to

wear such a practical uniform.

[Capt Coxetter]

A great site, and a right smart looking unit, Blue Zouave!

Capt. Coxetter

[Capt Coxetter]

Sounds like a practical uniform, Billy. But then, it also doesn't sound like Zouaves!

Capt. Coxetter

[samgrant]

Originally Posted by Capt Coxetter

Sounds like a practical uniform, Billy. But then, it also doesn't sound like Zouaves!

Capt. Coxetter

What's wrong with Billy's thing?

[samgrant]

Originally Posted by billywilson

The north had many zouave regiments,but the most practical

zouave uniform {or no uniform,if you wish} was Wilson's zouaves

of the 6th N.Y commanded by Col. Billy Wilson.

The uni consisted of a gray shirt coat and blue trousers

complete with slouch hat. From today's view point it makes sense to

wear such a practical uniform.

Billy, You seem to have some interesting info about the CW.

Why don't you introduce yourself at the "New Recruits Meet & Greet Area"?

[william42]

Let me tell you about zouaves

Great web site Zou... Looks like a well-organized group. I like the photo of your Sergeant Major.. he's hell-bent!

Terry

[Capt Coxetter]

Originally Posted by samgrant

What's wrong with Billy's thing?

Well, I don't know how to answer that one!

But as to the unit he's describing: how can they be a Zouave unit without having a Zouave uniform / costume / garb whatever you want to call it?

Capt. Coxetter