Most certainly early war and either red or black facings, the straps on the shoulders are most likely the straps for holding epaulettes, though I do not see evidence of a button or other attaching device. Most likely a pre-war militia uniform.
I would imagine some antebellum militia had their own insignia system
Most militia units were entirely local and as such were able to supply their own uniforms in whatever color or design they preferred, of course this gradually changed when the state stepped in and made recommendations as to color and form. When the state had militia uniform regulations it invariably allowed the individual units to continue to wear what they had, but replacement uniforms would need to comply with state regs, or reasonable facsimile.
The shoulder straps shows up on some enlisted men photos, so their not a Lt bar.
It was very common during this period for the straps on the shoulders to be in place for epaulettes, many militia groups had epaulettes for all ranks. They would be able to use the same frock for field or dress parade. Officers may have gold or silver strands, while rank and file white cotton strands for dress. Keep in mind this was the advent of officer rank straps or shoulder boards. I have two pre war militia uniforms with such straps, one an officer and the other enlisted; the straps are only sewn on the ends to allow the epaulette base to slide underneath.
Forum Host
Bringing the