Opinion on boots:

[History36]

Hello all,

New to the forums here, but just curious to learn of any and all opinions regarding two photographs of boots worn by Joshua Chamberlain during this parade in c. 1900.

Regarding the first attached image shows a side profile of Chamberlain in which I've always wondered: did Civil War era officers ever have the option of a 'cover' (for the lack of a better term) over top of their boots for ceremonial / parade dress, by chance? Reason being, if you look closely, you can see what appears to be a 'cover' secured to the bottom heel portion of his left boot by a buckle that enables this 'cover' to ride all the way up to the top where it was then tied around the knee. In short, one may be able to tell that the boot itself (behind the 'cover') has a lot more creases in it than does the 'cover' itself. This has always piqued my curiosity whether a cover appears present or not, so I am curious to get your take on it if I may ask please.

And lastly, the second attached image shows Chamberlain in front of the Union Mutual Life Insurance Company Building on Congress street in Portland, Maine. What I find interesting is that: the boots, to me, are below the knee and have some form of point nearly centered where it gradually slopes downward toward his right (and the viewers left). In short, you can see where the double-breasted frock coat ends along the thigh, his exposed knee, and the boot below the knee that is not completely straight across at the very top in that it has some form of upper design(s), etc. I've often wondered what style of boot this could be, such as a lower cut cavalry boot perhaps.

Please see the attached image(s) and thank you for any and all input!

 

[Legion Para]

Welcome to the forum History36.

These are not boot covers.

They are hooded stirrups which are part of the saddle.

 

[History36]

Thank you for the welcome note + info.

I certainly appreciate the insight with regards to the stirrups, absolutely. However, what is buckled at the very base of the boot (as seen in the 1rst image) and why does it look as if something was placed on the very front face of the boots themselves? In other words, if it was part of the stirrups / straps, they would be running along the inner leg - not the very front of the boots that helps to make the boots appear straight / smooth. As you can see, he has a black strap running underneath the boot from this buckle and going back to the heal as if a spur. And, any input with regards to the 2nd attach photo, as well?

Thank you again for any and all insight...

 

[James B White]

I would have thought the little buckle and strap under the sole in front of the heel was part of the spur. The brass part may be hidden in shadow and not show bright, and the stirrup hood may cover the rest of the strap.

 

[7th Mississippi Infantry]

General Chamberlin appears very distinguished in this photo.
I can't help you with your question, but thanks for posting the image.

Welcome to CivilWarTalk.

 

[lelliott19]

Image 1 - Looks like he is wearing "half chaps" They give the appearance of tall dress boots but you can wear over paddock boots or similar to give the illusion of tall dress boots. Here are a couple of WWI era half chaps

Here's a picture of how they are made today with the advent of new materials, better zippers, etc elastic is now used extensively to create a better fit.

Still in common use.

 

[Legion Para]

Photographic interpretation can be a tricky business and the clarity of these images leave a lot to be desired.

I see no evidence of half chaps or boot covers being worn. Just my opinion.

 

[History36]

Laura - thank you for the info regarding the 'half chaps.' That was what I was thinking as well and I am inclined to agree with you because, with the bottom buckle, you can clearly see that: 1.) This cover / half chap actually threads through this specific buckle. For instance, look at the same level of shine (sun reflection) that runs from the very top of the boot down through this buckle. 2.) And, if you look at the contrast, the boot at the very front of this chap is much more 'wrinkly' and aged vs. the chap, which is practically brand new. In short, two different genres. Finally, you can see the strap at the very top of the chap that ties around the knee.

Anyhow, any thoughts regarding the 2nd pic? And, what could cause that angle / point at the very top? I think that it may be safe to say that Chamberlain is wearing shorter cavalry styled boots in this parade unless folks think otherwise...? Who knows, maybe it's the point of these half-chaps jutting out somewhat, lol. If these are, in fact, half chaps, it tends to give me the impression of a 'Prussian' feel to them (if that makes sense). Many thanks for the many replies / debates, as well as welcoming me to the forum once more!