Knapsacks & Blanket Rolls Redeux

[Justin Runyon]

It begs the question, why add more weight to your load by adding wood of all things?? I just can't see this as being a documentable practice.

[The Pigman]

I thought that the fed double bag was supposed to have a wood frame in it. It was just that they were thrown away so much that the gov stopped issueing them.

Thanks,
Mark C. Foster

[HOG.EYE.MAN]

It begs the question why add more weight to your load by adding wood of all things?? Justin,

Yeah, no kidding. Why? I remember at Pickett's Mill, I wanted to throw my whole pack away all together by late afternoon.

Richard,

Any documentation? I may be wrong, but it sounds a bit farby buddy.

I thought that the Federal double bag was supposed to have a wood frame in it. It was just that they were thrown away so much that the gov stopped issuing them. Mark,

Can you elaborate a bit more? What are you talking about?

[Justin Runyon]

I dont recall a wooden frame double bag (I may be wrong). There was the early war wooden frame hard pack, and a wooden frame was produced for the Federal single bag. But, and here's the big kicker, "It was just that they were thrown away so much"...Exactly. So even if we dig up some illusive double bag frame, buddy Im not carrying the thing.

[Gallo de Cielo]

"I dont recall a wooden frame double bag (I may be wrong)."

Justin and all,

I would speculate that this might be the style in reference, as per Marse Serio's website: http://missouribootandshoe.tripod.com/id15.htm

It's the first knapsack model pictured.

Thoughts?

I've toted a hardpack before and it was both heavy and inflexible and accordingly did its best to render my back and shoulders null and void. The thought of wanting add some sort of shelf or frame sends me reaching for the whiskey and tylenol III. Additionally, I'm with those that have replied questioning the correctness of adding a "shelf" or other such incumberance. Bottom line, pack it so that you don't need a shelf. At the least, if you do put the shelf in, at least add a few hooks to hang a nice assortment of cups and such from inside the knapsack. Or perhaps a period correct wine rack.

Regards,

Fred Baker

[billmatt04]

Hello all,
I am considering purchasing a painted ground cloth but had a few questions first. I used the search option, but my questions were not completely answered. To begin with, about what time in the war were these contract painted blankets/ponchos issued? How common were these compared with gum blankets? Would it be more appropriate for a western federal impression to have a painted or gum blanket? I was really hoping to get my hands on a Daley blanket but was too late. Do any of you know where I could get a good quality painted blanket aside from Daley? Sorry to bombard you all with these questions but if I am going to spend my money on something I want it to be right. Thanks again!

Sincerely,
Matthew Cassady
104th Illinois Vol. Inf.

[3alabama]

I would wait if you can and get one from Chris Daley. I believe he has more cloth on order. I would call him and ask him how long the wait would be.

[CJDaley]

I would wait if you can and get one from Chris Daley. I believe he has more cloth on order. I would call him and ask him how long the wait would be.

Sorry folks, but that's the last of the cloth for this year. More to arrive in 2005.

For those who have placed an order before they went out of stock, they'll arrive this week. The first batch were tacky and I've treated them with talc and they'll be in the mail by Wednesday.

[tenthmo]

I just bought a piece of unbleached canvas, approx. 3feet by 6feet, from the fabric store and painted it myself using flat enamel paint.

[BrianHicks]

I just bought a piece of unbleached canvas, approx. 3feet by 6feet, from the fabric store and painted it myself using flat enamel paint.

Robert,

I'm afraid that simply painting a piece of Canvas with enamel paint, doesn't quite meet the standards for an authentically created reproduction.

I'd encourage you to do some research into how original ground cloths were painted, and then try to recreate that method as close as possible.

You can start with the recipes found here:

http://www.geocities.com/union_guard/oilcloth_and_painted_accoutermen.htm

[KittyK]

I just wanted to caution people that the original ground cloths were made with linseed oil, which is highly flammable, and can spontaneously combust. Feel free to flame me for saying this, but I think that in this instance, I'm not willing to put myself in danger by being period-appropriate. (If you don't believe me, go to Google and type in "linseed oil" and "flame".)

Sincerely,
Kitty Kolb

Robert,

I'd encourage you to do some research into how original ground cloths were painted, and then try to recreate that method as close as possible.

You can start with the recipes found here:

http://www.geocities.com/union_guard/oilcloth_and_painted_accoutermen.htm

[Yellowhammer]

Kitty,

This topic has been covered ad nauseum on these forums. Do a search and check out some of the previous discussions.

Robert,

Brian is quite right. You should take his advice.

All,

In addition to Mr. Daley's Federal cloth, Tim Welch at LD Haning makes a very nice CS painted ground cloth.

[JerseySkilletLicker]

Andrew Martin also makes an excellent ground cloth with or without hand stitched grommets. He is a member of these forums.
I also sell the fabric and the grommets to do it yourself.

[David Lanier]

I use a blanket roll for mid- to late-war Confederate and a double-bag knapsack for Federal (Irish Brigade). When we do Sherman's "bummers" at the NC capitol and Averasboro, I wear a blanket roll.

Cpl. David Lanier
Co. I, 6th N.C. State Troops
CWPT, SCV

[KentuckyReb]

I bought one off Joseph myself some time ago and I've been pleased with it.

[SouthernRifle]

I use a pack about 75% of the time. If we're doing a non-specific event, or a living history. I'll choose a year, take the pack and equipment that they would most likely have had at that particular time and lay out a spread for the 'tators to come and ask questions about. I usually get it packed up in time for first call and I'll wear it on the field.
Now if we're doing a specific event, I go with what we do know they had at the time. So far, we've only found that the 3d Alabama had packs at one point in the war, from mid '62 to mid '63. They picked up frame packs discarded by members of the NYS Militia at Seven Pines. Other than that time period, I'll take a blanket roll.
Now, if I'm falling in with another unit, I'll use the Kibbler, just because it looks "kewyl" when worn over a Ricmond 2.

Rob Weber

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

After making several oilcloths myself...using the period recipee...I can tell you that as long as you do it in a well ventilated area...and keep the cloth stretched out...the hazards of doing it yourself are not that great. There are several threads on here discussing the period treatment which involves, linseed oil, lampblack, turpentine, and japan dryer. Feel free to PM me for more information or advice.

Paul B. Boulden Jr.

RAH VA MIL '04

[riverratmess]

I was reading the other night in Don Trionani's (sp?) book on CW uniforms and it was brought up that the Confederate depots in Richmond ran out of blankets to issue the troops and issued them carpets instead? Does anyone have any other info on this on have an idea where one might be purchased for an impression?

Much thanks

[Vuhginyuh]

My guess is they are coverlet or similar patterns that were used as rugs and runners.

http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1534&highlight=CARPET+BLANKETS


Look at the FHW carpet page and you will see coverlet patterns.
http://www.familyheirloomweavers.com/cat/Coverlets+and+Runners.html

[markj]

For your perusal and edification:

J‎ackson MS "Weekly Mississippian," 12 November 1862‎

An Appeal to the Ladies of Jackson and surrounding Country.‎
The following named gentlemen have been appointed agents of the Government to aid in ‎procuring covering for our soldiers. They therefore earnestly appeal to the ladies to cut up their ‎yarn carpets, 2 1/4 yards in length [81 inches], 1 1/2 [yards] [54 inches] in width, bind, hem, or ‎whip the edges, to keep from raveling, whipping is most easily done. Send them to the house of ‎Geo. Fearn & Co. with the name attached, where the party will be liberaly [sic] paid. Thread ‎will be furnished there to those who may not have it. We want blankets and comforts, and must ‎have them, or our men must suffer.--‎
Will all the ladies again go to work and [at] that immediately?‎

T. W. CASKEY,‎
GEO. FEARN, ‎
W. P. HARRIS,‎
C. B. DICKSON,‎
THOS. GREEN,‎
REESE HATCHER.‎

Note: Jackson County, Mississippi furnished companies to, among other regiments, the 13th and 18th Mississippi.

Regards,

Mark Jaeger

[Fishermans wife]

There is a letter of Thomas Jackson asking his wife to remove the carpets from their home for the soldiers.

Unfortunately I loaned my book out and do not have it here to quote.

[Vuhginyuh]

IN FURTHER REFERENCE TO THE CARPET(BLANKETS)...

I have a large, local manuscript that details the efforts of local societies, in particular the Episcopal (Saint James Church,Wilmington N.C.) and Baptist Home Missions, providing carpet blankets and bedsacks and many other common personal items to the depot in Raleigh and the Wilmington & Weldon RR Depot in Goldsboro. Thousands of items were collected at a time.
It seems there were may busy hands at home.

The goods collected in southeast North Carolina were picked up at the whistle stops and depots along the Wilmington & Manchester and added to the items from Wilmington. They were then sent on in bulk by rail to Goldsboro and Raleigh for distribution. Many of the items were already requistioned and sent directly to Richmond from Goldsboro for issue.
(The more I read about Goldboro the more I understand Sherman's desire to target the place.)

The papers also contain interesting references to slaves and local women making uniforms from lots received from various NC cutting houses.

[markj]

Here is an extract from an article in the Lafayette IN "Daily Courier," 24 February 1862 describing the arrival of 32nd and 41st Tennessee POWs, captured at Fort Donelson, in that town for temporary internment:

HOW THEY LOOKED.‎

The majority were young men—pale, beardless youths—mere boys. Each had more ‎or less equippage [sic] of the second hand variety store pattern, and nearly all were ‎provided with quilts, horse covers, pieces of carpet, or some sort of apology for a soldier's ‎blanket.....

Regards,

Mark Jaeger

[Emmanuel Dabney]

While not necessarily directly ANV related I looked through Vicki Betts' newpaper reseach and found the following:

Savannah [GA] Republican, September 3, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
"Blankets for the Rebels."—Under this head, the New York Tribune, of the 12th inst., editorially says:
A gentleman who has recently arrived from Mobile states that there is not a single carpet to be found in any house in that city, every one having been given up last winter to be used as blankets by the army. The rebels began it, and the Unionists—of whom our informant insists here still remain a considerable number—followed suit, because they feared their omission to do so would lead to their denunciation as Northern sympathizers and traitors. The South is now destitute of blankets, and of any substitute. Under these circumstances, considerable sums of money have been sent to England to buy blankets for the army, with orders to ship them to Charleston. Cannot this traitorous next be broken up altogether, or else the blockade be rendered what it never yet has been—thoroughly effective?

[Little Rock] Arkansas True Democrat, September 24, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Blankets and Clothing for the Soldiers.—Imitating the self-sacrificing spirit of the Roman matrons who stripped themselves of their dearly prized jewels, and cast them into the public treasury, when the exigencies of their country required such aid, the ladies of this city have nobly resolved to surrender, for the use of the brave defenders of our homes and liberties, not merely articles of ornament, but such as have hitherto been regarded as indispensably necessary to secure domestic comfort. Not satisfied with simply devoting their time and energies to the task of fabricating clothing for the troops now in the field, they have determined to take up the fine carpets covering the floors of their dwellings, convert them into blankets and distribute them among the soldiers, who will, ere long, require such protection against the piercing winds of the winter season.
Will not the ladies throughout this State, Louisiana and Texas, emulate the example of their sisters of Little Rock? We are sure they will do so with alacrity, for women have ever been found capable of performing acts of self-devotion to the cause of God, of her native land, or of her family. Feeling assured that they will, one and all, answer promptly the demand now being made for clothing and blankets for the army, we have no appeal to make to their generosity or their patriotism, but will rest content with stating that the contributions of each neighborhood should be carefully packed together and forwarded to this city, to care of Maj. Jno. B. Burton, Chief of Army Clothing, Bureau of the Trans-Mississippi Department.

[Little Rock] Weekly Arkansas Gazette, September 27, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
| Make the Soldier Comfortable.—Major Gen. Holmes has made known to our people generally, and to the ladies particularly, the fact that, if a supply is not gotten up at home, many of our soldiers will lack blankets to make them comfortable and preserve their health, during the approaching winter. The ladies here responded promptly and patriotically, many of them giving the last carpet they have to be made into substitutes for blankets for the purpose.
We feel confident that the call will be cheerfully and fully responded to by the ladies west of the Mississippi, to whom it is addressed.
All contributions of blankets, or substitutes for blankets, or clothes, will be forwarded to Maj. Jno. B. Burton, Chief of the Clothing Bureau, Trans-Mississippi Department.

Savannah [GA] Republican, October 7, 1862, p. 1, c. 1

Clothing the Army.

. . . There is a corresponding obligation on the part of the citizen to do a part toward the relief of the army, and that part is the full measure of his ability, even should it be attended with self sacrifice and reduce the number of comforts around him. In his quiet and peaceful home he should think of the poor soldier while braving the storms and plodding over the snow-clad mountains of Virginia to defend us from the grasp of the oppressor. It is no time for selfishness. Every man that has a blanket should send it to the soldiers. In this genial climate we can readily save ourselves from suffering with cotton comforts and other means of command. Every man who has a wool mattress should spare it to the government, and resort to cotton and moss, which are abundant. There are thousands of light half-worn carpets that might be cut into blankets 6 ½ feet by 5, and sent to the army. And then, again, insignificant as it may appear, there is an abundance of warm winter clothing, already made up, stored away in our closets and wardrobes, very much of which could be spared without any serious inconvenience to the owner. Let all these things be brought forward from their hiding places and forwarded to some convenient point to be shipped forthwith to the army. Coarse cotton socks are also in great demand, and the women of Georgia, by an effort, could supply every soldier from the State with two or three pairs before the close of the year. . .

Savannah [GA] Republican, October 7, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Noble Contributions.—As a specimen of the right spirit to animate the Southern people at the present crisis, we would mention two instances of liberality that have come to our notice, with the hope that the parties will forgive us for the liberty we take with their names:
Messrs. W. H. Wiltberger & Co., the worthy and public-spirited proprietors of the Pulaski House, called on us yesterday, through a member of their firm, and offered the entire stock of carpets of their establishment, to be converted into covering for the soldiers. Some idea of the munificence of the donation may be formed when we state that it comprises the carpeting of one hundred and twenty rooms, and when cut up will make over five hundred comfortable and good sized blankets.
The second is not less commendable. Our old friend, Mr. S. Z. Murphey, the faithful Superintendent of Union Society's farm at Bethesda, and a man of very moderate means, called on me Saturday and left $50 as his contribution to the needy soldiers.
If there are many such men in the country, there will soon be no needy soldiers.

Montgomery Weekly Advertiser, October 22, 1862, p. 1, c. 4

[Communicated.]

Mr. Advertiser: The condition of the soldiers in our armies calls "trumpet-tongued" upon the people of the Confederacy for relief, immediate and effectual—all accounts agree in this, that our troops in Virginia under Gen. Lee, whilst making forced marches into Maryland, fighting battle after battle, and with a courage unsurpassed in the annals of history, winning victory upon victory, were without provisions, were half naked and one-fourth without shoes. . . .
Planters, do your duty—come to the rescue of your suffering soldiers—give up a portion of your negro cloth; get your wives to dye it gray; have it made up, (the women will do it,) and send it to the army. Give shoes only to your negro men who can do the outdoor work on your plantations, put your women and girls to spinning and weaving, (being in houses they will not need shoes); make blankets of your carpets.—Do all this, and when you lie down at night, you can say you have done your duty.
Lowndes.

Montgomery Weekly Advertiser, October 22, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
The Savannah Republican says that the proprietors of the Pulaski House of that city have tendered all the carpets in their establishment to the Committee collecting clothing for the army. There are 120 rooms in the house and the carpets will furnish 500 good blankets. This is a splendid donation. All honor to the generous proprietors.

[Little Rock] Weekly Arkansas Gazette, October 25, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Contributions for the Soldiers—The Patriotism [of] the Ladies of Little Rock.—
Mr. Editor: But a short time ago, the ladies of Little Rock, of their own accord, held a meeting and determined upon measures to assist in furnishing our brave soldiers with blankets and other necessary articles of clothing. Since then, carpets, costly and rich, have been converted into blankets, and other equally useful articles of clothing have been made [hole in paper]. Wiling, patriotic hearts have made [hole in paper] and fingers but little wont to use the coarse needle, now ply it with rapidity. This argues well for the success of our cause. A people thus working together, and willingly giving their property and their services to their country—their gentlewomen, like the matrons of Rome, giving, not mere trinkets of personal adornment, but house-hold property of real comfort and use in their families, all for the benefit and protection of the soldiers—can and must conquer. . . . The ladies who have thus parted with their carpets, are assured that their reward is a soldier's gratitude—a gratitude which none but a soldier can feel.
Will not the ladies of other towns and cities in this Military Department emulate the noble action of the ladies of Little Rock?
The thanks of the soldiers are also due to the Masonic Fraternity for the contribution of the carpet of their Lodge Room—making about 50 excellent blankets.
Respectfully, &c.
John B. Burton, Major
and A. Q. M. Chief Clothing Bureau,
Trans-Miss. Department.
Oct. 24, 1862.

Natchez Daily Courier, November 4, 1862, p. 1, c. 4

For the Suffering Soldier.

We wish to buy every Blanket, Comfort, Sock and Shoe for the army. Fifty thousand men languish in the Hospitals and shiver over cheerless fires, that could now be put in the field to fight. Much has already been done, and much more yet remains to be done.
Let the Ladies take up their carpets, the Gentlemen empty their wardrobes, and all come to the help of the needy Soldiers, as Christians and Patriots, alone worthy of freedom's birth-right.
All articles left with John C. Brown, at the store of James Carradine, will be gladly paid for, if required, and immediately forwarded, through Geo. J. Mortimer, from Brookhaven, to the most necessitous of the several departments.
Let all respond with alacrity, and promptly.
Geo. J. Mortimer, and
Jno. C. Brown, Agents for
Major I. Mims, Ch'f Qr. Mas. this Dep't


Weekly Columbus [GA] Enquirer, November 11, 1862, p. 3, c. 2
Carpet Blankets.—Major M. W. Perry yesterday exhibited to us a Carpet Blanket made for the army. It is undoubtedly a most excellent and warm covering, and will be a very comfortable addition to a soldier's bed clothing. It is made of scraps of cloth cut into strips and woven closely together, forming a heavy and warm counterpane, one of them being worth two or three common bed blankets for warmth and durability.
We understand that a reliable gentleman has contracted with Quartermaster Dillard to make these blankets out of the scraps left in making soldiers' clothing, and that he has several looms at work weaving and a number of children cutting and sewing together the strips. He will be enabled to turn out the blankets pretty fast for a new business, and the work will give employment to a number of women and children needing something to do.
These blankets would also be the most comfortable night covering for negroes, and they will no doubt be extensively used hereafter by those planters who examine them.

Montgomery Weekly Advertiser, November 19, 1862, p. 4, c. 5
Substitute for Blankets.—We have been shown a substitute for soldier's blankets, manufactured under the direction of Mrs. Wiley E. Jones, of this vicinity. It is made after the style of rag carpets of a new material, and colored with barks so as to make it the "loyal nut brown hue," so well adapted to camp life. The sample we have seen is a good substitute, and can be manufactured at a cost not exceeding $4.50 or $5.
Let others of our female friends follow the patriotic example of Mrs. Jones. Blankets can't be had—they are not in the country, and money won't buy them. Our soldiers must have something to shield them from the frosts and snow of the coming winter, and rag carpet blankets will do when nothing better can be hand.—Columbus Sun.

Montgomery Weekly Advertiser, November 26, 1862, p. 2, c. 6

A Worthy Example.

We learn that the members of St. Paul's Church, in this city, have determined to take up the carpet on the floor of that sanctuary and convert it into blankets for our soldiers. We heartily commend their action to other churches in this city and throughout the Confederacy. Surely we can afford to kneel or stand upon bare floors to shelter from the cold the bodies of the brave men who are fighting to secure our rights of conscience no less than our political liberties.—Columbus Times.

Galveston Weekly News, December 17, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
We have received a package containing sundry useful articles for our troops, labeled: "The Widow's Mite for the Relief of our Soldiers!"
Since the above was written, we have received from Miss J. D. the articles named in the following note, and will dispose of them as directed:
Houston, Dec. 10th, 1862.
Ed. News:--In response to Col. Cook's call, some time since, for lint and bandages, I herewith send one pound of the former, one hundred and eighty-two yards of the latter, from one to three inches in width, and old linen for compresses, &c. Also six carpet blankets, ten Merino scarfs [sic], four pairs woolen socks, three worsted shirts, two undershirts, four pairs drawers.
Please send the blankets and clothing to soldiers that you may know are most in need of them, and oblige, very respectfully Miss J. D.

We have the pleasure to make the following report since our appeal in behalf of our suffering soldiers, many of whom are without covering:
From Mr. C. W. L. 1 carpet; Mrs. F. W. Gray, 1 carpet; Mrs. Dr. Cone, 3 carpet blankets; Mrs. J. F. Cruger, 3 blankets; Mrs. W. J. Hutchins, 2 carpets and 3 blankets; Mrs. M. A. Dumble, 1 carpet; Capt. Chas. Gearing, a lot of blankets from off the steamboats.
The disposition made of the above is as follows:
Comp. B, Galv. Artillery, Capt. Weir, 27 blankets; Capt. Lecbults (sp?) 4 blankets; Sibley's Brigade, Col. Reiley commanding, 21 blankets.
We will have all carpets, sent in for the soldiers made up free of expense to the donors.
C. S. Longcope.

Galveston Weekly News December 31, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
Houston, Dec. 22, 1862.
W. Richardson, Esq.
Dear Sir:--You will receive per bearer the following articles for the use of the Company commanded by Captain Van Mcmahan: 18 carpet blankets, 1 comfort, 3 coats, old. These have (like unto the others) been sent to me for the purpose of distribution. The women (God bless them) are daily responding, and the call of "Who next?" is being cheerfully and liberally responded to.
Yours respectfully, C. S. Longcope.
By-the-by, Mr. R., permit me to say that the Brussels carpet can be softened and made to answer almost as well as the tapestry carpeting for blankets.

Washington [Ark.] Telegraph, October 14, 1863
J. D. Thomas, M.Q.M. of this place, wishes to purchase carpets for soldiers' blankets.

Savannah [GA] Republican, November 18, 1863, p. 2, c. 1

Our Suffering Army—To the Citizens of Savannah.

We desire to appeal earnestly to our citizens in behalf of suffering Georgians now encamped among the bleak mountains of Tennessee. The Firs Battalion Georgia Sharpshooters are men for whom we would claim their immediate and [illegible]. In a rigorous climate, exposed to all its inclemencies these cold November days and nights, these brave men are guarding the portals of our homes, all of them without proper provisions for bodily health and comfort, and very many without a shoe or sock on their feet or a blanket to cover them when asleep. This is more than humanity can bear, and as a necessary consequence they are sickening and dying under the terrible ordeal. With the hope of relief from home, they have deputed one of their number, Lieut. Molina, to repair to Savannah and make an appeal in their behalf for such comforts as the Government finds it impossible now to provide. He arrived here yesterday, and that all may fully comprehend the nature of his mission and the necessity for prompt and liberal action on their part, we copy the following official letter from the commander of the Battalion.
Headquarters Wilson's Brigade,
Near Chattanooga, Nov. 10.
Lieut. Col. G. W. Brent, A. A. G.:
Colonel—I have the honor very respectfully to request that Lieut. M. Molina, Co. D, 1st Batt. Ga. S. S., be granted permission to visit Savannah, Ga., for fifteen days, for the purpose of procuring from the various Relief Associations (and by voluntary subscriptions) at that place and its vicinity, blankets, shoes, and other articles of clothing, for the men of the 1st Battalion, Ga. S. S.
As Commandant proper of that corps, I have respectfully to state that every possible exertion has been made to procure from government (through the proper channels and in conformity with Regulations) the articles referred to, without success. The men are in a destitute and suffering condition, being without blankets, having lost them, with their knapsacks, in the first retreat from Jackson, Miss., and a number barefooted.—This battalion was raised and organized in the city of Savannah, is well known and thought of there, and I feel quite assured that Lieut. Molina's visit to that city in behalf of the destitute soldiers of the 1st Battalion Ga. S. S. will be productive of much benefit to them, enabling him to procure covering for at least a great number of the men, if not the whole.
Trusting that the commanding General will grant the permission applied for and thus relieve the actual suffering of the soldiers of the 1st Battalion Ga. S. S.
I have the honor to be, Colonel,
Very respectfully your ob't ser't,
[Signed] Arthur [illegible],

Major 1st Batt. Ga. S. S., Com'dg Wilson's Brigade.

Here is the picture; and now can our people look upon it unmoved? Will they not come to the relief of these brave men, and do it without a day's delay? How can it be done? We will tell them. To procure shoes at this time is out of the question, but such articles as socks, thick underclothes, and covering are at our command, and should be freely offered, even though it should cost us something of luxury, or even of comfort. Those who remain quietly at their homes should certainly be willing to divide with the poor soldier who shivers under the cold blasts of winter for the protection of those homes. Blankets are not to be had, but is there a man or woman in Savannah who will consent to enjoy the luxury of a carpet whilst these brave defenders are without a covering for their bodies? We hope there is not one. Then let some of the thousands of carpets in Savannah be taken up and devoted to saving the soldiers from exposure and death. They can be readily converted into blankets of convenient size, and those who are unable to do the work can be accommodated by sending their carpets to either of the editors, who will see that they are made up and got ready for shipment.
The ladies can certainly furnish a few hundred pairs of socks in the course of a week and if the Government Quartermaster will supply the osnaburgs we engage to have it speedily converted into warm underclothing. Let us move straightway in the matter, and move effectually.

Savannah [GA] Republican, November 19, 1863, 2, c. 2
The Sharpshooters.—Quartermaster Hirsch informs us that he has on hand an ample supply of under-clothing which he will turn over to Lieut. Molina for his needy comrades. So far very good. Now let the ladies send forward the socks and the house-keepers their carpets, and we shall be able to secure out boys in the mountains at least against freezing.

Savannah [GA] Republican, December 4, 1863, p. 1, c. 2
The Alabama Legislature has passed a joint resolution to cut up the carpets in the State House, to make blankets for the soldiers.

Savannah [GA] Republican, December 4, 1863, p. 1, c. 2

Carpets for Blankets.

Mr. Editor:--We take the liberty of publishing the following letter not merely for the sake of inciting others to perform their duty to our army fully and at once, but to correct an error that obtains to some extent in reference to the fitness of carpets for blankets, and which, when corrected, will furnish, we trust, very many more blankets for our suffering soldiers, now being rendered unfit for our defense by not being provided with the means of enduring the rigors of winter among the mountains.—There is but one kind of carpeting not adapted for covering for the soldier, and that is the Brussels. All other kinds subserve a most excellent substitute for blankets. This is said to be the experience of our men in Virginia. We trust no one will be hereafter deterred from sending what he ought to spare, without serious discomfort to his family. Our countrymen must sacrifice, in this hour of peril and of trial, their ease and much of their comfort, or we will hear that cry, more fearful than the knell of death, ringing in our ears, "woe to the conquered," John H. Mead, Auditor.


--------

Greensboro' Nov. 30, 1863.
Mr. J. H. Mead, Auditor—
Dear sir: Last night here was very cold, the first very cold and unpleasant night we have had so far this fall or winter. I could have slept comfortably under the quilts and other bed clothing we have, (having given most all our blankets to poor soldiers), but for the constant recollection how our poor soldiers about Chattanooga after hard fighting can brook these cold nights. I could not get it out of mind, and hence a sleepless night. I resoled to look and see to-day what I could do for their comfort. I have already given most all my bed blankets. I have on a floor a pretty good old Scotch carpet I [could] take up and do without, but, then I see carpets do not do so well. Besides this, I have a linen crumb cloth to my table. This will make four good blankets. I write to know if you can make the carpet avail. I have no lining—which I see is recommended—but your Society could do this if I sent them to you. Do let me know if you can make these things serviceable to our poor soldiery, and I will send to you, as I know you, and know my pittance will go through you to our defenders of our soil. Oh, how can any one withhold from these calls, if anything can be given to aid and help our brave boys. Drop me a note and I will respond.
Yours truly,
Jno. Cunningham.

Savannah [GA] Republican, December 28, 1863, p. 2, c. 3
State Carpets for the Soldiers.—The Montgomery Advertiser states that, in accordance with the requirements of an act of the General Assembly of that State at the recent session, the carpets in the rooms of the State capitol in that city are being taken up for the use of the soldiers from Alabama. They are to be used in lieu of blankets, which cannot be procured.


Montgomery Weekly Advertiser, April 6, 1864, p. 1, c. 1

Yankee Atrocities in North Alabama.

. . . On January 25th, Gen. Roddy, with a small portion of his command, attacked the forces of Lieut. Col. Phillips, who were encamped near and in the grove of Mrs. Coleman, the widow of Judge Daniel Coleman, deceased. The enemy's pickets were driven into the encampment, when they, with those of the forces who were in camp, took shelter behind the dwelling house of Mrs. Coleman. They fired a few rounds and fled in perfect consternation. . . . The marble slabs to the bureaus and wash-stands, were broken into pieces, mirrors were shattered—handsome Brussels carpets cut up into saddle-blankets—beds dragged out into camp with all the bed clothing, including the finest blankets and Marseilles quilts. . . .



Hope these are of some interest to you as they were to me. :-) Most of all, thanks to Vicki Betts for having this information available!

[Charles Heath]

To add to the earlier mention of coverlets on the FHW website, the carpet page is also on the Pat Kline/FHW website, and you may have seen or walked on this carpet in any number of historic buildings over the years. It's durable stuff.

http://www.familyheirloomweavers.com/cat/Carpet.html

I slept under one of the carpets frequently during 1998-2000, and they are quite warm, however, they are heavy for toting around. This particular piece most resembles the McClean House pattern, and was intended for use as a CS horse blanket by a reenactor. I'd wager a fair number of other A-C Forum members have also slept under that very same blanket. For the thickness, they are surpisingly flexible, since they do not have the stiff backing as do modern carpets.

Considering the price of a top end reproduction blanket, the price of a carpet blanket isn't all that much higher. What would be nice to find, are the jobsites where the old and worn correct period (or original) carpet is being removed and taken to the dumpster. That would be carpet farbric thick enough for blankets, and it would have a used look, rather than appear as if a brand new piece of material was just taken from the loom. Just a thought.

Charles Heath

[DougCooper]

One root of the blanket shortage of course is the loss of the Crenshaw Woolen Mill which burned in 63 - it was the primary source for domestically produced blankets.

[David Lanier]

I attempted to roll my US regulation grey blanket and poncho together and place them on top of a double-bag knapsack. When I put it on, immediately the weight began to stress the stitching where the shoulder straps are secured to the pack. I was afraid the stitching would begin to tear if I tried marching with it so top heavy. I can't imagine anyone marching day after day with such a weight on the shoulders!

[BrianHicks]

...... I can't imagine anyone marching day after day with such a weight on the shoulders!

For the 'Routine Patrol' at Land Between the Lakes with the MOOCOWS this past winter/spring, my knapsack weighed 23 pounds. I had one blanket (Childss Gettysburg blanket...the real heavy one) inside, along with a second Federal blanket and gum blanket rolled up, but attached to the bottom of the knapsack. These blankets, along with the extra shirt, socks, rounds/rations, etc, all weighed in at that 23 lbs. (yes... I weighed the damn thing!) We covered over 13+ miles in that 36 hour period over some ridges and steep terrain.

Yea... my shoulders were a littel sour for a day or two afterwards, but not intollerable. The knapsack actually carried the weight very well, and it wore well enough on my shoulders and back, that for the distance we covered, the weight wasn't an issue.

Yes...yes... I am a retired Infantry Marine, and I'm used to humping 50+ pound packs (but those modern things had good frames and waist belts to fit right and spread the load better).

The Civil War era Double Bag can wear comfortable, even with a heavy load. Perhaps it's in how you pack it? Or how you adjust the straps... (or maybe I'm just used to being a pack mule).

[PrettyBoyDonovan]

I attempted to roll my US regulation grey blanket and poncho together and place them on top of a double-bag knapsack. When I put it on, immediately the weight began to stress the stitching where the shoulder straps are secured to the pack. I was afraid the stitching would begin to tear if I tried marching with it so top heavy. I can't imagine anyone marching day after day with such a weight on the shoulders!


Hey, that's exactly what happened to my double-bag. The straps were completley ripped out. Too bad though, that was a quality pack too :baring_te .

PS- I'm looking for a used CS bag. If anyone can help me out, it'd be appreciated.

[Henryplantagenet]

Great discussion. My only question is this: if you do but the carpet, how much do you need , 2yds, 3,yds...etc...? Also, can you buy a piece that is wide enough, rather than buying two seperate strips and piecing them together?
Thanks,
Henry Northump

[markj]

Great discussion. My only question is this: if you do but the carpet, how much do you need , 2yds, 3,yds...etc...? Also, can you buy a piece that is wide enough, rather than buying two seperate strips and piecing them together?
Thanks,
Henry Northump

Hi Henry,

I call your attention to my previous post above:

J‎ackson MS "Weekly Mississippian," 12 November 1862‎

"They therefore earnestly appeal to the ladies to cut up their ‎yarn carpets, 2 1/4 yards in length [81 inches], 1 1/2 [yards] [54 inches] in width, bind, hem, or ‎whip the edges, to keep from raveling, whipping is most easily done."

Therefore, you will need enough carpet to make an item 81" long x 54" wide. These dimensions are roughly equivalent to a standard issue blanket.

Regards,

Mark Jaeger

[hutchpat]

"...or you can wipe the sheet down with furniture polish to remove the powder and give the sheet a shine."

I have to say I tried that with some Old English furniture polish on a new Jarnagin gum blanket a while back--a tip I believe I picked up on an earlier incarnation of this forum--and it didn't really produce much of a shine, though it did remove the faint powder residue, as Mr. Johnson remarked in the previous post. The rubber coating on the blanket just seemed to "absorb" the polish without really getting any shinier. However, after months of being folded to fit inside my knapsack, the creases have begun to take on a less dull appearance, also in accordance with Mr. Johnson's observations.

[1stMaine]

Comrades,

The thought occurs to me as I reconsider the image in question of the soldier/model with the shiney "gum" blanket: Any chance he's wearing a painted cloth blanket instead of a rubber one? That would certainly explain the difference in finish betwixt what is seen in the image and what is currently produced.
Just speculating here. Thanks for any input, and I remain,
respectfully,

[theknapsack]

. . .or you can wipe the sheet down with furniture polish to remove the powder and give the sheet a shine. I have found that my ground sheet has developed a shine from years of usage.

Mr. Johnson,

Wiping down the sheet with furniture polish worked great, but after O used it at a local event, it retained its dull appearance. I suppose I will just wait for it to get shiny over time.

Mr. Kindred,

It very well could be a painted ground cloth, but the original india runner ones were somewhat shiny, not as much as a painted one but enough to not look so dull. I think Jarnagin's rubber isn't that bad, it is just that, as Mr. Johnson stated, its the powder that it is packed in.

Respectfully,

[pvtken]

Question - What is the recipe for this oil cloth?

Thanks,
Ken Huxtable

[tmdreb]

This is a question for the moderators regarding the mention of vendor/sutler names on this forum. Is it necessary to first check this forum's list of approved vendors before mentioning said vendor's name in a thread? Reason being, I know of at least one on the list that offers a mainstream line of products as well as an authentic line. Also, one of the monitors of this forum has harshly denounced the products of a different approved vendor for that vendor's main product line.

To those who would freak out by the mention of a source for one particular item from a vendor off the "usual list," can we really deny that otherwise mainstream vendors anywhere will have the occasional good product? It must be remembered that quite a few of these vendors/sutlers have a very wide variety of sources for their products, and some are actually cranking out correct reproductions. It's happened many times before, and I bet will continue to happen, like it or not.

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

Question - What is the recipe for this oil cloth?

Thanks,
Ken Huxtable

Honestly...the difference between painted cloth and oilcloth is that in painted cloth, pigment (usually cabon pigment "lampblack") is added to the oilcloth formula. Oilcloth is just the combination of linseed oil, turpentine, possibly japan dryer, and for some original recipees the use of litharge (a highly toxic chemical no longer commercially available). There are varying percentages of parts of chemical...and it takes some playing around with...Please feel free to ask any more questions...

Paul B. Boulden Jr.

RAH VA MIL '04

[Pvt. Burrows]

I am aiming to be able to portray an authentic CS infantryman at large in the Army of Northern Virginia. Which knapsack should I get (Want one that could be suitable for early aswell as late war), who makes the best and where do I find it? Grateful for all help!

Pvt. Burrows a.k.a Martin Midander, Sweden

[hireddutchcutthroat]

Hej Martin

Jag rekommenderar en typisk model, som till exempel en "Kibbler" eller en "Mexican War". En Engelsk import, vilken var väldigt vanlig på båda fronterna. Lycka till!

[Yellowhammer]

Martin,

Welcome to the AC Forums!

Try using the search function and I think you'll find a great deal of useful information on this subject.

That said, based on photographic evidence of ANV infantrymen in the field (prisoners, casualties, etc...) the blanket roll and Federal "double-bag" (or perhaps a CS copy) knapsack appear to be the most common by far. Other styles of packs have survived and do show up in images, but not in the numbers approaching these other two options.

A few years back, I wrote an article on canteens that included a number of pictures of Confederates in the field that you might find useful. Check it out at: http://www.southernguard.org/education/canteens.html

Also, here is a link to a page on the excellent 37th Virginia site that presents a number of AC Redwood and WL Sheppard etchings of Confederates in the field. As both artists were Confederate veterans, most scholars hold their works in high regards in terms of accuracy.
http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Oracle/8577/drwngs.html

[Wild Rover]

John,
Good article.....is it me, or does the Five Forks pic make the CS troops look, well, like dwarves compared to the Federal Guards?

Always kinda stood out to me.

Anyhow, just thought I would mention it.

Pards,

[Yellowhammer]

Chris,

I agree. I think it's a trick of the camera.

If you look at the blown-up version in the Five Forks VC, it appears that the lay of the land makes the Johnnies look closer to the guard than they actually are.

Lots of great details in that pic though.

Also, thanks for you comments about the article. I need to make a few updates regarding CS produced canteens to it but I still think it's useful for newer guys.

[zoidy13]

I have just obtained a canvas A frame tent that was improperly stored, and as a result, has an almost unbearable mildue smell...any of you pards have a reasonable fix for this problem?

[short rations]

Does anyone have a good recipe for painting cloth that they are willing to share? I have used linseed oil and lamp blacking before. Is there anything of recent discovery? Thanks!

Fred Rickard
SGLHA & BLA

[JWolf]

some ideas to try...

The first thing to do is dry out/air out the tent outside for a couple days- it should either be set up outside or laid flat on a piece of cement (if it is laid on the cement it should be flipped over periodically).

When it is outside take a brush and dry scrub the areas where you see the midue stains- after that you could also vacuum the areas you scrubbed to get more of the mold spores out. You might want to wear a mask when doing it to filter out the mold spores.

Cholorine bleach kills mold- if you use the bleach, dilute about 2 tablespoons bleach per quart of warm water. Rub in with a sponge or brush. After treating it with the bleach rinse with plain water. Then allow the tent to dry. If it sits on cement you might want to do it on a weekend where you could flip it over every hour or so, or set up the tent and leave it up for a couple days.

If you wash the tent - really make sure it is dried out- might take a couple sunny days to really dry out.

Good luck!

Jim

[bonniegreenflag]

Fred-I would recomend you use the search function. there a number of posts containing alot of good information on this subject. Good luck on your projects!

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

Does anyone have a good recipe for painting cloth that they are willing to share? I have used linseed oil and lamp blacking before. Is there anything of recent discovery? Thanks!

Fred Rickard
SGLHA & BLA

Fred,

Just curious, did you have problems with the recipee you used? I use boiled linseed oil, turpentine, lampblack, and japan dryer. As long as you don't go too heavy on the linseed oil...and is given proper time to dry..it should all work out...

For those less brave than others, the watchdog did an article on them and chemically, black latex paint is supposed to be the same.

Paul B. Boulden Jr.

RAH VA MIL '04

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

A note on washing tents...soap and sometimes even bleach will most certainly get rid of some of the mildew...but they can also reduce the surface tension of the canvas, therefore causing your tent to leak water.

Paul B. Boulden Jr.

RAH VA MIL '04

[Vuhginyuh]

With all do respect, The Watchdog is wrong. Latex is a water-based plastic coating.

[edgeinwi]

Hi;

I had the same problem. I used a bathroom mildew remover (tilex) and it worked wonderfully. Since the cleaning solution is already prepared, all I had to do is set up my shelter, spray the surface with the cleaning solution until soaked, and allow to work for an hour. I then rinsed well with a garden hose and allowed to dry. The cleaning solution never hurt my shelter or grass, and the shelter was as waterproof as it was prior to treating it.

Good luck!!!

[edharmon]

Go to http://www.geocities.com/union_guard/ and click on "Articles" on the left hand side of the page. They include several recipes, ranging in degree of authenticity and safety.

[short rations]

Fred,

Just curious, did you have problems with the recipee you used? I use boiled linseed oil, turpentine, lampblack, and japan dryer. As long as you don't go too heavy on the linseed oil...and is given proper time to dry..it should all work out...

For those less brave than others, the watchdog did an article on them and chemically, black latex paint is supposed to be the same.

Paul B. Boulden Jr.

RAH VA MIL '04


Hi Paul,

I was actually just reading some of your posts from some time ago. I used to make oilcloths some years back and used linseed oil, lamp black and japan dryer. They did alright but seem to have a 10 year (at best) lifespan. After that they tend to "gum up" when the item is folded upon itself. I didn't use turpentine back then and realize now that I should have....just to thin down the oil. Thanks for your post,

Fred Rickard
SGLHA & BLA

[short rations]

Go to http://www.geocities.com/union_guard/ and click on "Articles" on the left hand side of the page. They include several recipes, ranging in degree of authenticity and safety.


Thank you, I appreciate the tip.

Fred Rickard
SGLHA & BLA

[Vuhginyuh]

The old way to control mildew is to wash the textile in a lime solution, Calcium hypochlorite and water. This is the same chemical used to bleach rag pulp for paper and to make linen white over the centuries.

That being said, I do not know the properties of this chemical. Use with care. I understand it is no more dangerous than chlorine bleach to use.

If you use any bleach of any kind rinse the textile well, let it air dry and then rinse again.

[hardtack1864]

A vinger water mix worked very well for my ground cloth when it got mildue on it. I sparyed it on outside let it sit a couple of hours and they took a little soap and water to it to take out the vinger smell. Also I did this a few months ago and the canvas has had no after affects in case anybody was wondering.

[Jefferson Guards]

Does anyone have any documentation for or know of original ground cloths constructed of oil cloth (linseed oil and turpentine with no pigment)?

[Spinster]

A couple of years back, I was given a "ruined" tent--put away wet, and covered in mildew. It was a small A frame. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, I went to a commerical laundry, and got the biggest machine, poured in a lot of detergent and about 3 cups of bleach, and set it for a second rinse. Then I dried it throughly in a larger commercial dryer.

By any common wisdom, this tent should now leak like a sieve. Its what I expected too. But, it doesn't, and stood up to a near monsoon last year.

You mileage may vary,

[zoidy13]

Thanks to all for your replies, and great suggestions..it's going to be sunny in my part of Florida for a couple of days, so I'll give your suggestions a try..again, your responses are greatly appreciated!!

[edgeinwi]

Hi;

Just a final note on the reply given by Vuhginyuh. Lime is in fact calcium oxide. Calcium hypochlorite is the active chemical used for cleaning/disinfecting swimming pools.

Regards;

[Jimmayo]

If you look at period photos many tents obviously have a case of the "mildews". Why not set it up for a couple of days to dry and air it out and leave it dark.

[Zacharias J. Forsythe]

Martin,

My recommendation would be a Kibbler-pattern, Mexican War era or a common single bag soft knapsack, which was the most common Confederate issue knapsack. Jarnagin's or the Jersey Skillet Licker are the ones to go to.

Zacharias Forsythe Sgt. USMC Camp Fallujah,Iraq
the Suwannee River Mess
Company E, the Liberty Rifles

[Jefferson Guards]

Has anyone seen documentation/examples of the use of oilcloth (fabric impregnated with linseed oil, not "painted cloth") in items such as ground cloths or other goods available to or issued to the armies (all theatres, both sides). I am looking for information on the use of this cloth for military items during our period.

[hireddutchcutthroat]

Martin,

My recommendation would be a Kibbler-pattern, Mexican War era or a common single bag soft knapsack, which was the most common Confederate issue knapsack. Jarnagin's or the Jersey Skillet Licker are the ones to go to.

Zacharias Forsythe Sgt. USMC Camp Fallujah,Iraq
the Suwannee River Mess
Company E, the Liberty Rifles


I wouldnt recomend anything from Jarnigan.

[Vuhginyuh]

I saw this the other day and have been looking for natural, undyed, unpainted or tarred cloths too, mostly off-line. The only leads I have found are simple oil cloths and I'm not even sure they started life as such, just acquired the look and feel over the decades.

One is in an early 19th century Johnson County (NC) hunt board and the family states that cloth was spread over the board slab when presenting greasy (sloppy) foods. The cloth is a sheet-size tow canvas with what looks like a very short linen (flax?) fiber. I'll post some specifications asap.

You will be the first to know If I find something more worth looking in to.

[CJDaley]

Here is a Kibbler pack being offered by
LD haning who is an AC Approved Vendor

http://www.ldhaning.com/knapsack.html

[markj]

Hi,

Commercial suppliers for military goods in and around Petersburg VA repeatedly advertised "Patent Black Enameled Cloth" for sale to buyers throughout 1861. The firm of "Alfred Moses & Co.," of Richmond VA, did so in the 13 July 1861 Petersburg VA "Daily Express." The firm of "George H. Davis," of Petersburg, also offered "Black Enameled Cloth" as early as 16 July 1861.

The Petersburg VA enterprise of "T. W. Royston & Co., No. 51 1/2 Sycamore street," advertised the following for sale in the "Express" as early as 13 July 1861:

Oil Cloth Coats
Oil Cloth Pants
Oil Cloth Capes
Oil Cloth Haversacks

Incidentally, as early as 22 January 1861, before the war started, the Royston firm was offering "Military Overcoats...of superior quality, and with a change of buttons make a complete citizen's dress overcoat. Prices only $12.50."

One or more firms in Petersburg also advertised "oil" floor cloths during this same period. It doesn't take much imagination to realize that makers and merchants simply changed their "demographic" and began targeting the "soldier trade." Indeed, I would think the same material used in making oil cloth coats, pants, capes, and haversacks could have been adapted toward making floor- or ground-cloths as well. The fact that the ads differentiated between "enameled" and "oil" cloth is noteworthy.

Regards,

Mark Jaeger

[3alabama]

I've been searching for the same thing in reguards to oil cloth(linseed impregnated cloth). I am looking for information on haversacks inpeticular. I have been told several times that linseed oiled haversacks were a state of Alabama item. I have yet to find any proof or evidence of this as of yet and thought I might find an answer or documentation here.

[markj]

Actually, I looked at another "Royston" ad and, in fact, "haversacks" actually reads havelocks. Sorry if I got anybody's hopes up--the print quality of the Petersburg "Express" is nothing short of hideous--almost illegible in many sections.

Nevertheless, I'm pretty sure there are surviving examples of haversacks (both officer and enlisted) made wholly or partially from oil-cloth--it was pretty much an "all-round material," given its water-repellent qualities. There is a "dispatch bag" or, more probably, haversack in the collections of the Indiana State Museum that appears to be partially constructed of either "enameled" or oil-cloth. This is ID'd to an officer in the 18th Indiana. Maybe other forum members can provide other examples.

Regards,

Mark Jaeger

[James Masson]

There's also Don Smith of Trans-Mississippi Depot Co. fame. He is back in full time business now (read the "Vendor Announcement" page for details and his 2004/05 catalog). I don't personally own anything made by him but I have seen his products in the past. Top-notch work and well worth every penny you pay.

[Pvt. Burrows]

Thanks a lot for all the great advice!
My impression will certainly be good thanks to all the guidance I have
received on this forum!

Martin Midander - the viking reb

[billmatt04]

What was meant by wearing both knapsack and blanket roll? I have seen reenactors doing this, but have never seen any images of this practice. If anyone has some pics, please post them. I would love to see them. Thanks!

Sincerely,
Matthew Cassady
104th Illinois Vol. Inf.

[RN_PAC]

What was meant by wearing both knapsack and blanket roll? I have seen reenactors doing this, but have never seen any images of this practice. If anyone has some pics, please post them. I would love to see them. Thanks!

Sincerely,
Matthew Cassady
104th Illinois Vol. Inf.

I'll throw out this ever popular pic, and also hunted around Google for those well-known Allen C Redwood sketches but could not find them right now (will keep lookin').

*nevermind, can't seem to attach it; the image was the three-reb-prisoner-Gettysburg-thing. Need I say more?

I have done this from time-to-time and think of it as possibly a day-to-day or situation specific sort of thing, the kind of thing you only learn by experience. Here are some random thoughts, hopefully of some utility: The same intrepid fellow who carries his blanket rolled on top of his knap-sack might find himself needing to move quickly after a hasty bivouac in the field, and rather than roll the blanket tightly for that purpose makes a messy roll and throws it over the shoulder. Or, he travels lighter and keeps the blanket either betwixt the knapsack halves (if he is using some kind of fold-over type) or in the knapsack itself, but either dosen't have the time or the inclination to undo everything (depending on the pack that may be a job in its own right) and thus quickly throws it over the shoulder. Or he has a very low capacity knapsack (Pritchard or Trotter type) without a specific external provision for carrying a great-coat or blanket, and he is motivated enough to carry enough stuff to fill it up and a blanket to boot. Finally, another guy is 48 or 72 hours into one of those hurry-up-and-wait marches with unpredictable starts and stops who just wants to whip the blanket out at pretty much every halt that might offer a few minutes' sleep (or longer, who knows?) without undoing/redoing everything at every halt.

"Function over form" so to speak.

-Tom

[Freeborn]

Some time back there was a discussion of lined blankets -- a sheet attached to a regular blanket to provide additional warmth. Can't seem to find those posts at the moment (hope they're not lost forever). I just thought it might be an interesting experiment with cooler weather approaching. Does anyone remember what material was used for the lining and does anyone have any real experience with these uber blankets? My Google search didn't turn up anything meaningful, but perhaps I needed to refine my seach further. Thanks for any help.

[vbetts]

A couple of suggestions from Confederate newspapers:

[Little Rock] Arkansas True Democrat, June 13, 1861, p. 1, c. 2-3

Soldiers' Health—Interesting Suggestions
and Recommendations.

The following article, on "Soldiers' Health," is from Hall's New York Journal of Health. It contains much valuable information for both soldiers and civilians: . . .
4. Colored blankets are best, and if lined with brown drilling the warmth and durability are doubled, while the protection against dampness from lying on the ground is almost complete. . . .

Daily Chronicle & Sentinel [Augusta, Ga.], August 31, 1861, p. 2, c. 1-2

Remember the Soldier.

. . . The weather has recently been very wet in Virginia, and it is even now getting quite cool, especially in the mountains. And right now the soldiers need good blankets and flannel shirts almost as much as they every will. . . .
It has been urged that as blankets are very scarce, if indeed it be possible to buy them at all, the people should give their own to the soldiers. We agree to this heartily, and when families can not afford to give them, let them sell their blankets. Every family can readily furnish from one to half a dozen, and use comforts, or something of that sort for themselves. Blankets are the only covering that will answer for the soldier in camp, and these ought to be lined with oil-cloth if possible.

Vicki Betts

[Spinster]

Those blankets were based on period instructions to utilize a layer of wool fabric and cotton fabric quilted together to produce a warmer blanket. I believe a quick rummage around Vicki Betts newspaper articles site should find the original text.

In practice, this article is very handy--mine is made from a piece of wool jean quilted with long running stitches to a piece of heavy cotton shirting. The edges are bound with twill tape. There is no lining or batting material. I used the cotton shirting classified by Family Heirloom Weavers as 'heavy'.

These are a wartime 'make-do'--just as blankets made of ingrain carpeting were. They are not as warm, versitile, or easily dried as a proper military issue blanket, but instead an example of both ingenunity and hardship.

While I don't live the life of a soldier, I do often find myself rigging a make-do shelter and cover. While this is certainly not the warmest blanket I own, it is by far the best protection against a brisk wind.

These can be produced with rudimentary handsewing skills--an excellent 'first project'.

[vbetts]

That's my cue....

The main newspaper site is:
http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts/newspaper_titles.htm

Several years back I pulled together articles on blankets, quilts, and comforts and they are at:
http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts/blankets.htm

I've added a number of newspapers since I did that collection--in fact, I'm editing some new files right now drawn from the Augusta GA Constitutionalist and the Southern Field and Fireside. They should be added in the next week or two, depending on what's up at work.

Vicki Betts

[Spinster]

Along those same lines of thought, and from deep in the blanket article cited above...

Natchez Daily Courier, September 20, 1861, p. 1, c. 1
Recipe for Coloring Blankets. Make a strong solution of Red Oak Bark, put a table spoonful of Copperas in the solution, boil a few minutes and stir well. Put your white blankets in the solution and boil them half an hour; take them out and soak them in weak ley then rinse them well in warm soap suds and hang out to dry.
These directions if followed will give a most desirable [dye?] for an army blanket.

We made this dye last fall at Fort Toulouse/Jackson State Historic Site, during the week-long Alabama Frontier Days(1730-1820). Not through any pre-planning on my part--this sort of thing comes under the heading of 'running a pot of whatever the Indians bring up to trade'--usually accompanied by "the Grandmother said this was good for ....."

I fully expected a good strong unremarkable brown--what I got on wool was a startling limey green that sent folks running all over camps for shirts to go into the second pot run.

And those linen and cotton shirts emerged from that dye pot as orginally anticipated--a strong, and unremarkable brown

[Freeborn]

Thanks for the quick replies. I actually hit the newspaper article, but didn't read down far enough. I will have to give it a try as I hate to get cold. I end up spending most fall nights sitting or lying next to the fire.

freeborn

[Nighthawk]

Jim,
Hit the search button. There are several excellent threads on how to stay warm.

[ney]

Jim,
Hit the search button. There are several excellent threads on how to stay warm.

I gave it a try, and thought it work surprisingly well, the extra weight wasn’t to bad.
Jake Beckstrand

[AZReenactor]

I used a wool blanket lined with cotton sheeting for several years and it does help. Last spring I even slept through a nice little spring snowfall in California with nothing but blanket and overcoat (and uniform). The tight weave of the cotton helps to keep the wind from cutting through the blanket and the pocket of air between the cotton and wool provides extra insulation as well.

Keep in mind that If you do find yourself in really wet conditions it is best to roll up in your blanket with the cotton cloth on the outside. It will still block the wind but you need to use the wool to keep yourself warm and insullated from the wet cotton. Wrapping up in a cold wet sheet of cotton only serves to lower your tempurature further.

[Lone Guard]

Excellent tip Troy.

[csa blacksmith]

[QUOTE=vbetts]A couple of suggestions from Confederate newspapers:

4. Colored blankets are best, and if lined with brown drilling the warmth and durability are doubled, while the protection against dampness from lying on the ground is almost complete. . . .]

what is brown drilling? duck cloth? and I noticed on one of the other replies, cotton laps? what would those be?:confused:

[pipthelimey]

Tom,
Regarding that famous "three Confederate Prisoners" picture, I have always wondered about the gear they are carrying. It seems to be like an inordinate amount of gear for July, and I've often wondered if upon becoming prisoners, (and newly shed of their rifle/cartridge boxes) if they didn't try and pick up equipment they thought might be useful at their final destination. Maybe one or more of them had been captured before and exchanged, and said "hey fellas, it's going to be cold where we're going." Just a thought. I'd love to hear other's opinions on the matter.

Andrew Jerram

[pvtbordonaro]

Andrew,
We'll never know for sure, but I think you're right. That's what I would have done in their situation, anyway. And there were a lot of knapsacks lying around, that's for sure.
-Joe Bordonaro

[John Legg]

I like both

[Guy Gane III]

In my opinion, if I am going to an event that is going to be ridiculously warm, then I prefer a bedroll... because I am not planning on lugging much around for the weekend.

If its a colder event, I am all for the knapsack. You can add more warm clothes and then you can roll up your greatcoat when it gets warmer and sling it to the top of the pack. Also, mentioned before... you can string up a coffee pot or boiler in the straps.

[Cpl.Jmartin]

I have always just rolled up my blanket, wrapped my ground cloth around it, tied it with with leather straps and used a piece of old horse saddle leather to fling it over my shoulder. It's homeade-cheap, comfortable (to me anyway) and maybe even done by a few resourcefull soldiers somewhere down through history.

works for me.....Jmartin
53rd GA

[EvilRob]

I like the knapsack. You can find your stuff easy and it makes a great pillow.

Rob Michael
Frockhead Mess

[John Legg]

Wambaugh Sells them, check his out

www.wwandcompany.com/csblankets.html

John

[10TnVI]

Definition of Drill- a strong, medium to heavy weight, 2X1 or 3X1 warp faced twill. Usually of cotton, it is similiar to denim-

Note this is not cotton sheeting but closer to a light canvas and probably exhibits some degree of water repellency

Other definitions of interest-

Cotton Twill. Twill is the name of a basic weave which can be executed in any type of sturdy yarn, natural or synthetic. The yarns float over two or more before passing under the next yarn; it is a progressed interlacing, tighter than satin, whereby a diagonal ribbed effect is created.

Osnaburg: a coarse, strong, plain weave, medium to heavy weight fabric, usually of cotton . Used for industrial purposes, drapery and upholstery.

Note this is not cotton sheeting but closer to a light canvas and probably exhibits some degree of water repellency.

[Lawrence]

Would using oilcloth be appropriate?? It would defintely be wind resistant, and waterproof ... would make a nice little "swag" as we say out here in the antipodes ...

Shannon

[Charles Heath]

Would using oilcloth be appropriate??

Shannon,

During the course of your research into lined blankets, how many documented instances did you discover them to be lined with oilcloth?

At least you didn't ask "how popular?" ;)

[10TnVI]

oilcloth- see Ms. Betts post(post#2)in this thread for a reference to the practice.-

[markj]

Jim,
Hit the search button. There are several excellent threads on how to stay warm.

Try making the attached item...if you dare.

Regards,

Mark Jaeger

[Spinster]

Mark, how heart rending---and a methodology that continues.

I've examined a Depression era quilt made with the piecing paper left intact--high quality rag bond used office paper, with bits of the letter still readable through rents in the fabric, and handled several others where the feel of the quilt made it obvious that paper had been left in.

Just as poignantly, my Father recalls his sisters sewing layers of newspaper together to augment bedding for his family in the early 1930's, as his crippled, widowed mother struggled to raise 8 children.

And, since on this rainy day, I'm actually making lined blankets, of drill and wool, thought does turn to incorporating a layer of paper as well.

Do the current Harper's repro's have the feel of the period ones? I've got a varigated stack acquired from NPS sites, somewhat the worse for wear after several years of jouncing about--might be an interesting use.

[Kace]

I am a knapsack guy all of the way. I have tried the blanket roll and just can't get it to feel as comfortable as the knapsack.

Kace

[ney]

What was meant by wearing both knapsack and blanket roll? I have seen reenactors doing this, but have never seen any images of this practice.

That's a lot of stuff. I am prefer a knapsack myself.
Jake Beckstrand

[weed]

I use a double bag knapsack (Radamacker, boy does this date me) for Federal and a Mex War pack for Johnnie. Reason: a blanket roll cuts off the wind (air) to your head and makes it hotter. Also, it is easier to keep track of your personal stuff with a knapsack than a blanket roll. Sorry, I do not put my "haversack stuffers" (stupid farb sutlers) in a dirty haversack.:sarcastic

Weed

[Jim Moffet]

Depending on the historical context of the event, I will carry either.

But sometimes history dictates a lot less. When the First Minnesota left Harrison's Landing on the Peninsula August 4, 1862, there wasn't room on the steamboat for the knapsacks. These were to follow on the next boat. The men landed at Alexandria, fought in the rearguard actions at Vienna & Flint Hill, waded the Potomac at Edward's Ferry, marched across Maryland, slept among the dead at South Mountain, fought in the West Woods at Antietam (loosing 100 men), buried the dead, forded the Potomac at Harper's Ferry, and went into camp on Bolivar Heights 22 September. That night they took a bath in the Shenandoah, boiled their shirts, and the NEXT DAY the wagons arrived with their knapsacks! Sgt. James Wright, Co. F, stated that the boys thereafter referred to this as the "Forty Days without Change of Shirt." I hasten to add, nor tent, gum blanket, blanket, socks, etc.

Jim Moffet
First Minnesota Volunteers, Co. A

[lawson]

I prefer the Bedroll. I know alot of guys who use knapsacks, and it has mostly resulted in sore shoulders and backs. Just too many knapsacks in my opinion. Read the accounts of soldiers ditching there's during long marches. There was a reason.

Later,

[pvtbordonaro]

William,
I agree. Problem is, few reenactors know what a long march (in full marching order) is since few have gone more than five - ten miles at a time thus encumbered. It'd be interesting to outfit ten reenactors with knapsacks and ten with bedrolls, both being the same weight, and have them put in a good twenty miles on the road (not all that long a march during the actual war). I'd be willing to bet some of the knapsack-wearing boys would've switched to a bedroll by about mile ten. Of course, if you're only doing ten miles or less the knapsack probably is preferable since it does have other advantages, such as being able to carry more loose items more easily than in a bedroll.
-Joe Bordonaro

[20thmainer]

Can any one tell me the authenticity of using a quilt instead of or in conjunction with issued blankets in both a dog tent and campainger camps.

[JohnTaylorCW]

This question comes up now and then: this is my copy of an OLD thread (2001?) discussing the question:

Feel free to chime in with additions.

TMDreb
Paper Collar

Posts: 7
(5/11/01 11:09:46 pm) What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
I've been noticing a common thread while checking out unit/event authenticity guidelines, and that is the phrase "no quilts". What gives? I'd like to know why quilts are so maligned by authentic reenactors.
Scott McKay
High Private

Posts: 29
(5/12/01 8:36:30 am) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
Have you ever tried carrying a wet quilt?

Not only does it take forever (x's 2) to dry out, but the stuffing inside weighs a ton when saturated.

Having done alot of antiquing and shopping around for quilts in the past, I have personally found that in most cases, the only ones that look right are the originals. Which, are usually fragile. But I think the matter of getting water-logged and extremely heavy is enough to not want to carry them when on campaign.

Have you given the thought of using a coverlet? Eventhough originals are sometimes available (and not too exhorbitant in price), there are several souirces for good reproduction coverlets. And, when a coverlet gets wet, it doesn't weigh a ton (as compared to a quilt).

As every seasoned campaign soldier knows (then and now), when on the march, every pound (or the lack thereof) adds up.
CurtHeinrichSchmidt
Buck Private

Posts: 156
(5/12/01 10:36:15 am) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
Howdy!

Aside from their wet weather "unfriendliness," the biggest problem is a historical one- there is a difference between modern quilts and CW era quilts. Particularly, the mass produced quilts sold for $10 in vacant lots and gas stations... ;-)
I lucked into five or six pre 1870's, hand-sewn from scap material, family quilts when my wife's grandfather died. A number of them were used as under-mattress pads.
They ranged from like new to pretty shabby.
An historical quilt maker redid the stuffing and backing on two, making a full size and twin size qilt I used for my CS impression for a number of years. The ones that could be saved, were made into turn-of-the-century style "teddy bears" and distributed to family members so that the quilt and the family connection lives on.
As already said, they do not do well when wet or soaked, and are a very poor substitute for a good WOOL blanket both in terms of warmth when damp, and in ease of drying out when wet.

Heinrich
Scott McKay
High Private

Posts: 32
(5/12/01 11:24:40 am) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
A couple of years ago, I lucked out by finding a quilt in an antique shop in Morgantown, Kentucky. If this quilt isn't of an 1860's construction, it was done soon thereafter. The back is peiced together with seven different patterns of ticking (along with a nice tight blue checked shirting material). The front has a peiced checkboard pattern, done mostly with black and brown jean fabric (some of them patched...to indicate they were probably pants).

Another quilt I picked up at Olustee about 10 or 11 years ago... it is constructed entirely of red, white and blue flag bunting, and the fabric is definitely of a period nature... one side is of a checker board pattern, and the other side was done in a striped pattern that is broken up in thirds. The edge on both sides is trimmed with a 1 1/2 inch red border.

I don't know if the bunting quilt would be appropriate, as it may have been inapropriate to carry flag remnants in the ranks... but the other one sure would.

But, I don't carry it for the practical reason previously stated (the weight of it getting wet and the fragility of the item).
Susan Hughes
Paper Collar

Posts: 1
(5/12/01 11:37:27 am) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
I'll chime in and agree with Mr. Schmidt's comments on historically accurate quilts. Quilts are an incredibly complex subject that require a good deal of study before picking out one to use for a mid-19th century impression. Just like choosing the correct sack coat, or the correct knapsack - there is a good bit of homework to be done when choosing something brought from your pre-war civilian life.

(An aside here: after the event was over at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in 2000, I found in the "campaigners" area a really, really 1950s quilt bedroll. I checked with some of the folks who were camping in that area -- no one would claim it.... <G>).


Here are some places to start researching:

Barbara Brackman, Clues in the Calico -- an excellent study of mid-19th century quilts and textiles, including patterns and colors.

NOTE: I DO NOT RECOMMEND her QUILTS OF THE CIVIL WAR or CIVIL WAR WOMEN:Their Quilts, Their Roles and Activities for Re-enactors except for content material -- the quilts in those 2 books are modern-day interpretations of period quilts -- some of which are documentable and some of which are not. The text in those books are excellent, however, for putting quilts into context.

Bets Ramsey and Merikay Waldvogel - Southern Quilts is another excellent source.

Sandi Fox - For Purpose and Pleasure: Quilting Together in 19th Century America is another good source.

Check our museums which have quilts with a good provenance.

IN GENERAL (and speaking very broadly here): many of the patterns which we see most commonly today date from the 1930s - 1950s when there was a revival of interest in quilting. Patterns like Grandmother's Fan, Double Wedding Ring, and the like are far too post-CW for our use. Similarly, Victorian "crazy" quilts and tied quilts are generally speaking post-war. The "craze" of the 1950s was for appliqueed and embroidered quilts -- a technique that is found less often today than pieced quilts.

Bottom line: if you want to use a quilt (keeping in mind Mr. McKay's comments on the drying properties of a quilt), there's a lot of homework to be done before making a selection.

Susan L. Hughes
TMDreb
Paper Collar

Posts: 8
(5/12/01 7:50:22 pm) Quilts
________________________________________
Truthfully, the reason why I was asking is that I already have a couple of quilts, and as I'm upgrading my impression, I was checking to see if it was a possible option to use until I found a suitable bank to rob so I can spend the money on an authentic wool blanket. The one I'm using is large, but kinda thin. I can wrap it around me, which is nice. It's mostly a light blue with a kinda fan or star shape in the center made of various colors, mostly green and yellow.

Phil

Cushwa Invincibles
An Ossifer

Posts: 203
(5/12/01 7:54:21 pm) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
Phil,

Pat Kline has an option. The double woven civilian blanket is about $90. Less if you sew the center seam and edges yourself. Little Ms. Bev got hers for $45, and that's not bad for a first class blanket.

Your Pard,
Charles
The Rowdy Pards
TarHeel26
Paper Collar

Posts: 8
(5/13/01 1:02:00 am) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
While cleaning out my attic I found a quilt and have verified that it is of 1860's construction but it has a number of tears, holes, and what looks to be dry rot. My question is, is there a way to repair this? Would it work to just put patches over the damaged areas?


Charlie Bush
26th N.C.T.
SparksBird
Fresh Fish

Posts: 18
(5/13/01 9:37:08 am) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
I agree with Mrs. Hughes one hundred percent on the use of quilts. First, they are a very complicated item that would require a lot of research to find one that is period to the civil war. Second, from a curators point of view, why would you take one out onto the field? What is the difference between wearing an original uniform to reenact in or carrying an original quilt or coverlet? I would recommend a repro anyday. As stated earlier, Pat Kline offers some excellent alternatives. My wife has the pumpkin and green double woven blanket and she loves it!

Rick Musselman
Buckeye Mess
Susan Hughes
Paper Collar

Posts: 2
(5/13/01 5:27:47 pm) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
A correction to my post above, and an addition:

I meant to say 1850s when referring to appliqueed and embroidered quilts, not 1950s. My apologies.

And to add to Mr. McKay's comment, we see far too few woven coverlets and carpets in use as coverings, especially among Confederates.

Besides the ubiquitous blue-and-white (usually Whig Rose pattern) woven coverlets, a typical household of the 1850s/1860s might have had numerous cotton warp/wool weft or wool/wool woven coverlets, in a variety of colors. Then there are the 3 and 4 color jacquard coverlets. Good and fairly inexpensive repros of these are fairly widely available (the jacquard being more expensive than the 2 color).

And we see too little carpeting in use -- venetian or ingrain being the carpet of choice because it was the "out-of-date" carpet in the household. In this case, reproductions are more expensive than finding an original in good shape. At the Heart of Country Antique Show in Nashville this past February, I saw probably a hundred coverlets and 40 pieces of ingrain carpet for sale.

As a museum professional, I must echo Mr. Musselman's comment about not using original textiles in situations where they might be damaged -- these are irreplaceable resources. However, in a static situation, and where the original is in good shape, and where there is little chance of damage by stress, water, &c. these can add a fine touch to an impression.

Susan L. Hughes
Capt King
Comrade in Arms

Posts: 71
(5/14/01 2:38:27 am) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
No one here has answered the question asked. Once again I see that the problem is that everyone wants you to look like they want you to look and not the way one would have looked. Would a CW soldier have cared about how heavy his quilt was when it rained? No, he would have been damn proud to have the quilt in the first place when it was desperately needed. Could he have called up Klien's to order a new nifty one? No, he did not have that option. Where did a CW soldier in the South get a blanket when really in need? He would have brought it from home, had it sent from home or foraged a blanket from the nearest house which would have been a what? A quilt. While I agree with everyone that any quilt should be period correct, I find banning quilts at events distasteful. Is this what we are coming down to? Are we now not guilty of being the dreaded revisionists when it comes to what authentic is? I would venture to say that if a survey was taken at any time in the Army of Tennessee, one would have found around 50% of the men were carrying quilts. This also takes me back to my post about hats that had to be bound with ribbon, have a sweat band and a period correct liner, etc to be acceptable. Im sorry but the men used what they had which was sometimes nothing at all. Once again they could not run down to Dirty Billy, Clearwater, etc to purchase a new one just so they could fight. I want to challenge all here to not get too carried away with these lack of authenticity, authenticity standards and let's get back to what really was and not just what some of us want it to be. Look at your original photos again and ask yourself just what would original be? I eagerly await all responses.
Capt King, CoE 46th Tenn, "The Henry County Rifles"
KKransel
Paper Collar

Posts: 8
(5/14/01 7:34:53 am) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
Before I got to Capt. Kings post, I was thinking the same thing. And that is, no one seemed to be addressing the question, addressing only the facts that a quilt gets heavy when it rains, or that no one makes a period correct quilt. Quilts proably didnt hold up as well as a wool or jean wool blanket, and wool blankets hold the heat in better when wet I believe, but did CW soldiers use quilts? I bet they did, altough I dont have the documentation right in front of me. To some soldiers, IM sure a blanket was a blanket if they really neede one. Maybe there is a market waitng to be tapped for period correct quilts. I wouldnt mind using one during the hotter summer months, plus a quilt is a bit lighter. If it gets wet, well, I guess I would just have to either put up with it or pitch it, depending on how much of a burden it would be.

KK
Cushwa Invincibles
An Ossifer

Posts: 207
(5/14/01 8:34:40 am) Re: Quilts
________________________________________
Pards,

The original fellows didn't have to worry about whether or not their quilt or blanket was period correct, if you know what I mean. Some of the quiltphobia (and riflephobia) stem from issues relating back to more mainstream events. For example, on the rifle issue, the fellows in the 45th NY use Mississippi Rifles, and know what they are doing. Most events do not allow these weapons, under the usual assumptions of safety, etc.

The quilt issue is parallel in some ways.

How many of us have seen someone show up with a quilt that was obviously modern fabric? You know, like the infamous "puppy dog print" day dress from 135th G'burg? It happens. Banning quilts is a knee jerk reaction to the baaaaaad quilts that show up from time to time, but, within our segment of the hobby, there are people who not only possess proper quilts, but the knowledge to know the difference between correct and incorrect articles. So, how does one differentiate between the two at inspection time?

Easy question. Difficult answer.

More and more events are implementing a brief inspection upon registration. This is a good idea. At the same time, an argument over a piece of gear could devolve into a "yeah? oh, yeah?" situation. To borrow from a practice that was popular 12-15 years ago, one could consider a "proof book" for items beyond the norm, and a page for a quilt with a photograph and documentation should suffice. On the other hand, perhaps listing a handful of acceptable quilt patterns for an event (opening a can of worms), just as we do for uniform and equipment items would also be of assistance. Either way, there will be some exceptions and some character trying to find a loophole, such as seen at Outpost 2000, but I agree with the fellows who say we should see more of them, because that's an item the old boys indeed used, abused, and suffered from in '61-'65.

A few weeks ago, there was a thread about an unbound hat, and this follows along the same lines. In trying to filter out certain undesirable items, perhaps we have also filtered out some of the items we should be using.

Now, about those BaCoVa all-cotton throws folks are passing off as wool coverlets....

Your Pard,
Charles
The Rowdy Pards


Leatherstocking
Shirker

Posts: 23
(5/14/01 10:20:41 am) Quilts when wet...
________________________________________
I'm not sure anyone has covered this aspect but not only are quilts HEAVY if they get wet they are miserable to sleep under. I'd argue that a decent wool blanket provides a lot more protection and warmth when wet and is possibly more durable.

To me a wet quilt is an uncomfortable,sodden,cold,mess- unless perhaps- it was made largely from wool bits. Given the choice I'd rather have a good wool blanket. Yet given the choice between a quilt and nothing I'd have to concede that the quilt would be my choice.

Matthew Nelson






CurtHeinrichSchmidt
Buck Private

Posts: 165
(5/14/01 12:07:36 pm) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
Howdy, Pards!

No?

RE: "...the biggest problem is a historical one- there is a difference between modern quilts and CW era quilts. Particularly, the mass produced quilts sold for $10 in vacant lots and gas stations..."

Short answer repeated.

The larger issue is not whether quilts were used by Confederates, but rather why the "hobby" throws the baby out with the bath water?
It is a reenactorism, that can be argued both ways, that we go about things by putting the burden of proof
on "why it is right" rather than "why is it wrong." Defending the use of an item, is kept from becoming a man-by-man, article-by-article, item-by-item court-case with empirical and prima facia evidence offered into the record as each man goes through the gate of a reenactment.
It is much, much easier, and faster, to make sweeping, generic, statements with "look alikes," products believed to have copied from original items by well-known, knowledgeable, and skilled craftspeople rather than ever hope to have an "inspector" with a wide-enough knowldege base to review and rule on any or all
articles anyone would be bringing to an event.
Is it right? No, not by a long stretch. Are sweeping generalizations correct? Although the topic for a longer debate, the short answer is "yes" because it facilitates the attempted "enforcement" of some form of "standards" without bogging things down.
At the 18th century events I held and attended, it was particpation by invitation, with each man having a
"manifest" of his clothing and gear, persona, research for the artifact copied and period aco****s of its use.
The manifest was illustrated by photographs. Clothing and gear was further inspected by two knowledgeable men, who then signed the cover page. Any member had the power to challenge any article
which prevented its future use until it was found to be documented.
It worked surprisingly well, but for less than 12 men. And would not work for any such thing as a reenactment or LH event.

RE: "...the problem is that everyone wants you to look like they want you to look and not the way one would have looked."

Precisely.
If everyone looked like Civil War soldiers looked, there would be no need for standards or discussions such as this. "Correctness" or "authenticity" is a modern invention designed to try to persuade people who do not
look like CW soldiers looked to look a little more like CW soldiers and not CW reenactors.
If we all just looked like CW soldiers... but since many do not, and do not care that they do not, since they are "in it" for things other than "history."

Capt King, Sir:

I am hardly an event host or sponsor, but if you want to fall in with me with your historically correct hat with its vestiges of what used to be there, and a historically-correct CW quilt, I'd be proud to march with you anytime.
But if I have to leave my ACTUAL CW era patchwork quilt at home to reduce the risk of 50% of fellow Confederates falling in around me with $10 gas station quilts, I probably would give up mine because when
everything is possible, nothing is probable.
And the rest is supposed to be history.
BIRD.

Heinrich
Known Quilt User Mess

I can't prove it, but I am sure the original owner of the "Pea Ridge" Confederate homespun blanket reproduced a while back from the Wisconsin Veterans Museum dumped that light-weight material "mosquito net" in favor of a quilt the first frosty night he shivered under it...
Capt King
Comrade in Arms

Posts: 75
(5/14/01 4:06:20 pm) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
Heinrich,
I respect your opinion and have learned much from your posts of the past. Once again I believe you have come as close to a correct answer as one can. I can defend my quilt carrying through original pictures as well as original letters that I have had the pleasure to view. Im sure you have had the opportunity to observe many yourself. The problem is that what one wants to do correctly, another wants to use the use of that item to back up their own use of an obviously non-period item. This calls for oversweeping rules and regs that affect us all. I guess the obvious question is, when does the rules and regs start to affect authenticity to the point of being non-authentic? I for one try to be as authentic as possible and that is why I frequent this sight so as to learn more and also find where to acquire the most authentic items available from great minds like yourself. As you know a lot of the southern soldiers fought and existed with just what they were lucky enough to find. This led to a more non-military look than the US regulars. It is a constant battle to try and convince others what is obviously not correct for an impression. I just am afraid that what I see happening is what I have to call revisionism in our hobby because of the ignorance of others. I once heard an old country song that said that even Jesus Christ would not be welcome in the modern day church because of the way he looked. Could it be that what we are facing in our hobby is the same? Even a real soldier would not be allowed to participate in our authentic events because he does not measure up to the authenticity standards set for the event? Just some food for thought.
Capt King, CoE 46th Tenn, "The Henry County Rifles"
CurtHeinrichSchmidt
Buck Private

Posts: 168
(5/14/01 6:19:14 pm) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
Howdy, Comrade!

I wholeheartedly agree.
I sometimes see the need for imposing standards (which should not be necessary if everyone followed history as closely as possible instead of following sutlers' row...) as a Frankenstein monster.
We create authentcity standards for the good or "reenactorkind" only to have it turn on its creator.

Heinrich
A B Normal Brain Mess
Hamfman
Paper Collar

Posts: 1
(5/16/01 4:35:58 pm) Re: What's wrong with quilts?
________________________________________
I have seen the no quilt rule from time to time as well. I think the problem has been that people show up with a non-period quilt made for example by the Amish (Nothing against them). Perhapps including incorrect dimenisions, patterns, and fabrics. After all not everything they make is period. Also some of those quilts use printed fabrics. Im not saying they didn't have prints but there is a difference between what you find at "Cloth world" and an original quilt.
Another thought is that quilts are good to use for some impressions but maybe not the best for all impressions. While I would carry one without hesitation for my Missouri State Guard impression or perhaps my Missouri Confederate impression, I would never bring one for my 47th Missouri impression because I know they were issued army blankets.
I agree with an earlier post they are not the best to use in wet weather as wool does retain its insulation much better than a cotton quilt. In a rainstorm I would sooner turn the quilt into a shebang than use it as a blanket.
Speaking of printed fabrics Del Warren's wife (Del is a Sutler)did a book on period prints by era though, not by year. Based on my findings there were prints out there that would blow you away. I suggest a book, Jane Austen (1775-1817) ISBN 0-517-14255-4. On one of the first pages there is a picture of a patchwork quilt made by her. About 40 years before the 1860's but worth a look.
I am presently making a quilt based on an 1851 example I came across. Unfortunately I need to cut out 1070 triangles. I have been working on it for 3 years and it will probably take me another 3 years to finish cutting the triangles. I found it easy to find sources on historical quilts and found enough information to get started without too much trouble.
My advice for quilt fans is be mindful of materials, dimensions, and patters and know what to look for before you buy it.
Frank Aufmuth
cleaveland
Comrade in Arms

Posts: 55
(5/16/01 10:55:42 pm) quilts and guidelines
________________________________________
hey, I would have jumped in sooner but I just got this damn machine fixed. my view of the original question is this. yes there where quilts around and they where used. but for me the question would be are they appropriate to the event and impression you plan on using it at. I imagine the in early war both sides had men carring them, as well as coverlets. then as the war progressed they would be less prevelant with the armies being better supplied. and yes I agree that they would be used as an alternative to nothing. but say at a mid 64 campaign event in Ga, I can't for the life of me see more than 1 man in 100 carring them through what was one of the rainest springs on record.but in the main I agree with the folks that say do your research and let the history dictate what would be common among the boys we are dipicting, even if it means getting strange looks from Everyone cause your covered in dirt and orange mud.

[DougCooper]

I sent a PM to the poster on the many different quilt threads that come up under the search function. The thread from 2001 is a bit dated. We know today that quilts were in fact carried but the problem is their usage was more of a "blanket not available." I would imagine most of us today would agree that quilts have their downside in a downpour, but I have carried one where appropriate, specifically as a member of a Florida homeguard or a very early war CS volunteer.

Finnegan's Florida troops left the state in 64 for the trenches in Virginia and there are several refs to their shabby appearance, including quilts, from vets in the line. I will try to locate the one quote that is often used. No telling how long it took for Richmond to replace the quilts with blankets. When you think about it, this makes sense as the climate in FL is warmer and these troops were often supplied from home even this late in the war. Lots of beds had quilts on them.

Mike Anderson and Mrs Anderson are probably the hobby's experts on period quilts (and they make outstanding reproductions). They are writing a book as we speak and one portion will deal with the 100,000+ Sanitary Commission quilts that were produced to fill in gaps in blanket issue for US troops. They were often used as "cot blankets" in hospitals and such. Several survive and Mike makes an outstanding reproduction.

Your average authentic reenactor probably does not need to be told to leave the quilt and bring a blanket. But all of us have seen ratty wedding ring quilts or other modern patterns at events - I think the "no quilt" prohibition probably comes from wanting to halt this practice, esp as the number of folks who can tell a modern from a period pattern is tiny.

I cannot think of a time, accept perhaps a muster-in scenario or hospital scenario, where a US soldier would likely be carrying one. CS soldiers is another matter, and one can imagine times where the supply of blankets was scarce and quilts from home might have been seen. Heck, curtains, carpets and floor cloths were used, so quilts must have been in the mix as well.

That still brings us back to the problem of identifying a period vs non-period pattern. One idea might be to restrict them to "Mike Anderson made" or put the onus on the individual to bring documetation with them that said quilt is a period pattern.

But...bring a correct blanket in the car as a backup. :)

[Rebel Yell1863]

I like the blanket roll, I roll my ground cloth and belongings up in it and I keep my pipe in the band of my hat. Leaving plenty of room for grub in the haversack. :D

[blt37thga]

The cotton in a quilt will somehow draw the coldness to you.

Cprl Ben Taylor
37th Ga Co.i
Hgb

[DougCooper]

For correct period quilts see here: http://www.skilletlicker.com/servlet/Categories?category=Quilts+and+Bedding

[ney]

William,
I agree. Problem is, few reenactors know what a long march (in full marching order) is since few have gone more than five - ten miles at a time thus encumbered. It'd be interesting to outfit ten reenactors with knapsacks and ten with bedrolls, both being the same weight, and have them put in a good twenty miles on the road (not all that long a march during the actual war). I'd be willing to bet some of the knapsack-wearing boys would've switched to a bedroll by about mile ten. Of course, if you're only doing ten miles or less the knapsack probably is preferable since it does have other advantages, such as being able to carry more loose items more easily than in a bedroll.
-Joe Bordonaro

Good point the longest I have even worn my knapsack is about 8 miles. after the first 3 or four it didn't bother me so much, but I felt it the next day.

[Utah]

OK, I guess I'm a knapsack guy as well. Obviously the bedroll is much more comfortable to wear, providing you have just a rubber blanket and a single wool blanket (I've seen some fellows that look like their carrying an inner-tube). And the heat factor can be mitigated by wearing the rubber blanket on the outside (wool on wool is too much for me) and thus you are prepared for rain as well. But in the west sometimes events take place at altitude or a chily time of year (Jake can attest to that) or both making necessary a minimum of two blankets, oil cloth and rubber blanket. This is much easier to carry with a knapsack along with a spare shirt, nightcap and socks as well. And as noted by others, it is more convenient for use and keeping track of your stuff. Spooning is optional, I suppose. I like the look of a bedroll much better though, and at times will carry one when warranted.

[AZReenactor]

The Cotton In The Quilt Will Somehow Draw The Coldness To You.

Unlike wool, cotton will indeed draw heat from the body if there is the least bit of moisture. Even mere perspiration can cause cotton to chill a person. Wool next to the body with cotton on the outside usually works better than cotton on the inside and wool on the outside. I've even found that taking off a damp cotton shirt and just wearing my sack coat can make for a much better sleep on cold nights.

[Spinster]

Had we not recently lost so much, a quick and easy boil down of this discussion would be available through a judicious use of the search function.

However, nothing learned is ever lost, and a good place to start relearning it would be here

http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts/newspaper_titles.htm

where a quick search on "quilt" and "blanket" will find the multiple appeals to send blankets and carpets to the soldiers, and leaving quilts at home to warm those left behind, as well as numerous accounts of the various fundraising sales of quilts, especially the highly ornate 'gunboat' quilts, some of which are still extant today. A through read will negate the need for speculation, spoon feeding, or pomposity.

Frank's voluminous project detailed in the 2001 thread was later written up in a wonderful multi part article----again, one of those lost discussions, that lead us to the conclusion that quilts were indeed a poor substitute for a blanket or even a carpet, and extremely difficult to properly reproduce. His finished quilt remains a work of art that few would have the fortitude to attempt to duplicate--or shiver under.

Women all over the South worked and sacrificed so that proper blankets would be sent to the front. Old women with gnarled hands taught young women to card, spin and weave by hand, skills that may not have been in use in decades, in order to supply the military. Others risked their lives to bring much-needed machinery to manufacture goods for the war effort. Others pulled the blankets from their beds and the carpets from their floors.

Those people were not stupid--they knew a quilt was a poor thing to keep a man alive in the cold, and did not expect him to use one for very long. Exceptions were made for wool quilts, but the major calls are for blankets and carpets.

For those who wish to use this as a means to emphasize the sacrifices of the Southern soldier during the war, and the sometime poor state of his supply, realize that in over emphasizing the useage of quilts in all but the very early months of the war, you are making light of the sacrifice and work of those on the home front, who gave up much so that soldiers would be provided for.

[Mutt]

Mrs. Lawson,

Thank you so much for adding your response to the question at hand and adding several remarks. Quilts have recently been on my mind and added to my research pile. I'd love to start making a quilt with my girlfriend for a few reasons: for fun, for something to do over winter, to use and as a memory. Of course, research, time and help will be necessary. I'll turn back here I'm sure.

Also thank you to all others who have provided valuable input on the matter.

Regards,

[Spinster]

Mutt,

You'd be well served to get a copy of Frank's multipart article ( I believe it was in the Camp Chase while it was still under the direction of Mr. Hughes, well before said publication started its blithe journey to the netherworld in a hand basket).

It contains numerous references, resources for period reproduction fabrics, and methods. The final product was a tied quilt (using some of my cochineal red yarn) and a fine fat wool batt. I finally got to see it some two years after its completion, last year at Athens, Missouri--at a milita event where its useage was certainly proper.

As you review the various period reproduction print fabrics available, do so with an eye towards period color combinations. Often the modern quilters' reproductions are made to please the modern eye, and the colorways have been altered, even though the scale and print remains the same.

But, in the right place, at the right time, it IS a noble undertaking. There are far too many perfectly good 1930's era quilts being drug around various battlefields, with incorrect prints and pieceing patterns, being destroyed forever as proper represenatives of their own eras, by those who have picked them up in an attempt to portray a poorly supplied confederate soldier. Those 1930's quilts are just as out of place in an 1860's context as a 1990 orange polarfleece.

But then, you know that, and in your case, I'm preaching to the choir. Some of us are cogitating on a quilt for Perryville On the Farm next summer, even as we speak.

[79th N.Y.S.M.]

I believe it depends on the person. It is true that many dropped their packs while on the march but I would not have. I have done 21 miles in under seven hours with all my gear, it may be my youth but it did not effect me. Not everything can be generalized so easily.

[Infantry_PVT]

I am new to this reenacting thing and i got most of my stuff. I am looking for a gum blanket though. Where is the best place to get it. Thank you for your time. Steve Trupe

[VaTrooper]

Bottom right.

http://www.nj************.com/newsletter/1006/1006.html

[Western Blue Belly]

Look through the approved venders list found at the top. You will find everything you need and more. Off of the top of my head I believe E.J. Thomas has gum blankets. I think Skillet Licker has them too, at least he did at one point. Carter and Jasper carries them as well.

[JerseySkilletLicker]

E.J. and Carter & Jasper have them at $98 per. Best one on the market too...right weight, stamped , correct grommets etc.

[Fenianboy]

Check out the new ones Nick************ is making.EJ Thomas and others are carrying them and they are on the money. Bud Scully 13th NJ Co K Mess

[Charles Heath]

I am new to this reenacting thing and i got most of my stuff. I am looking for a gum blanket though.

Steve,

Take the time to pick up and read a copy of Mike Woshner's book entitled India-Rubber and Gutta-Percha In The Civil War Era for some background.
You may find some pleasant surprises.

CRRC-1 article II-12 is good, as it includes an examination of several original gum blankets, and a poncho.

[Bummer]

Check out the new ones Nick************ is making.EJ Thomas and others are carrying them and they are on the money.

This is the sort of comment that kinda burns me up. First off before I start, I might mention that I have bought one of these from them so it isn't any kind of sour grapes or anything on my part here.
but
Whenever I mention something being good or bad on a forum I always tell why it is so--as compared to an original, it isn't a personal evaluation, but more observation because I am lucky enough to have access to originals.
That's the sort of thing a forum is all about.
But when you see someone making an unqualified evaluation--with nothing in the statement to back it up other than pure visceral opinion, well, it defeats the purpose of this or any serious fora.

As it happens the aforemention gum blankets are NOT 'on the money'. They are for one thing glued together rather than heat vulcanized--with plenty of excess glue exposed. They are still about the best thing on the common market these days, but unless you are intimately familiar with the original material object PLEASE do not use superlatives when discussing something that is still not perfect. Or at least give meaningful comparative observations.

Thank you,

[dusty27]

Do your own research

[Dale Beasley]

Blanket Roll...but do think anyone is reading this thread anymore?

[Balthauser]

I have to add my vote for knapsack too. I find blanket rolls, though lighter, tend to be more awkward and clumsy at times. It really depends upon the scenario, too. But if given the choice, I'd rather tote a lightly-packed knapsack over a blanket roll anytime.

[BishopLynch]

How long is this thread going to continue? Enough already.

[Dale Beasley]

Gregory,
I believe it is our duty to make sure that this could be the longest thread that lived past the crash.

Now back to the story...I still think that it is the blanket roll that is more "Marching Friendly"

[BishopLynch]

Our duty to make a thread survive? I think we get the point already! You're beating a dead horse!

[Jimmayo]

Many soldiers used a gaily colored carpet bag with their possessions securely tucked away inside. Excavated specimens have been recovered with little wheels in the bottom and an extendable handle for those long marches.

(Just beating that dead horse.)

[Dale Beasley]

Actually on the Pharr Road near Raymond, on which the Confederates were retreating, hand held bags have been found with the maker marks of "Confederate Tourist"

[C.R. Henderson]

I believe the "Confederate Tourist" bag had the matching bag with the "Shermanite" label, didn't it?

[Michael Semann]

This hackneyed old thread ran it's course awhile back. I'm closing it to prevent further beating of this dead horse.

[hendrickms24]

I think a more authentic solution than the greatcoat straps is to use some twine of some variety. Didn't the regulations stipulate that the greatcoat straps would be tied around the coat when it was turned in for the Summer months?

Mr. Cross,
Could the greatcoat strap have been different from the straps on the knapsack? I am just wondering if the regulations specify that the straps are indeed the same ones.

Thanks for your reply,

[roundshot]

An old trick I was taught many, many years ago was to double-loop the blanket straps thru the strap tabs on top of the knapsack, i.e. under, then back over, and then under again. When tightened slightly, it will "scrunch) the knapsack top into a slight "V," and the knapsack straps will form a nice pillow on which to set the rolled coat/blanket. The straps will not slide once double-looped, and keep the desired article nicely perched on top-no need for a stick. I was told by an "old hand" back in the early 80s that this is how "they" did it and that the strap tabs on top of the knapsack were made wide to accomodate the practice. While I cannot confirm the historical accuracy of that, I do know it works quite well.

[pipthelimey]

I thought that would get your attention!
I'm sure someone has seen this before, but I found this transcription of Albany newspaper articles on the net and thought I'd share. http://www.uttyler.edu/vbetts/albany.htm It makes for some good reading. It's got some interesting items about "Comforters" for the local company being contracted by a QM captain, recipes for ersatz coffee and salt beef, and of course the following:

Water-Proof clothing--Asbestos.

We are pleased to learn that Messrs. Golueke & Wilson, of Washington, Wilkes county, Ga., are manufacturing a light and pliable cloth which is said to be impervious to water, and serve as a substitute for the ordinary, but more costly India Rubber cloth, and is said to be admirably adopted to camp service. There is another article which seems to be forgotten and almost entirely out of use, which may be worked to advantage in the manufacture of soldiers cloth and articles of clothing of similar use. We refer to a mineral called "Asbestus," [sic] and which may be found in abundant beds both in Southern Tennessee and Northern Georgia. This article, if we mistake not, when properly manufactured, or woven into cloth, will prove a most excellent article for soldiers use, for travelling purposes, and especially for firemens clothing. It is both water-proof and fire-proof. An instance is recorded wherein a fireman clothed in a tissue made of this substance, with a proper hood as a covering for his head, was surrounded by a flame of fire and remained in this position for ninety seconds. His pulse during this time rose from 72 to 152. Another fireman repeated the experiment, and remained in contact with the flames for 3 minutes and 47 seconds. It was formerly used for shrouds for burying the dead, and may now be used as a valuable article for lining fire-proof safes, and serve a better purpose than the ordinary fire-proof paint for covering houses. In short, it can be woven into thread and manufactured into goods for many valuable and useful purposes, both public and domestic. Will not some of our more scientific citizens experiment on this subject, and furnish us with the result of their investigations?

ALBANY [GA] PATRIOT, December 19, 1861, p. 2, c. 1

[ewtaylor]

Asbestos has been used for thousands of years. It was used as napkins and tablecloths for the kings and emperors of Europe hundreds of years ago.
everett taylor

[pipthelimey]

See, this is why I hang with you guys...

:)

[pvtheath]

Hello,

I'm fairly new to reenacting and have really only been doing it for about a year now. I was wondering what is the most authentic way to make a blanket roll using both a blanket and gum blanket. Thanks.

Pvt. Brad Heath

[paulcalloway]

Here's a quote Mark Jaeger produced a few seasons ago:

(Corporal Frederick Pettit to Evan Pettit, "Camp opposite Fredericksburg, Va. Jan. 13th 1863")

"In the morning we were ordered to be ready for picket a 9 o'clock. We do not take our knapsacks and tents, but roll our woolen blankets in gum ones and tying the ends together throw them over the shoulder. We also take our canteens and haversacks with all the grub we cn get for we eat a great quantity on picket. Our guns and cartridge boxes complete the rig."

Source: Gavin, William G., ed. "Infantryman Pettit: The Civil War Letters of Corporal Frederick Pettit [Company C, 100th 'Roundheads' Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry]." New York: Avon Books, 1990.

That's one way - Hardtack & Coffee has images of soldiers carrying their gum blankets on their belts. There's also the gum blanket as a separate roll method.

[Justin Runyon]

This has been posted before, but I've always liked it.

[Chris Suppelsa]

Always good the check with your unit NCOs.

http://www.cwreenactors.com/~sykes/instruction/blanketroll.php

[toptimlrd]

To echo others,

I usually carry my gum on my belt where it is easily reached. If rain suddenly begins to fall, it is much easier to pull the gum from under the belt and wrap it around you than it is to untie your blanket roll to get at it. Plus once it is around you it will help to keep your blanket dry as well which can be much appreciated when you bed down for th evening. I would also reccomend though that you check with your NCOs as if they have a preferred method for you to carry it then you should do so. If the method of carry is at your discression, the above is what I have always found to be the most efficient.

[Silas]

Link to "The lowly blanket roll (http://www.columbiarifles.org/Articles/Lowly_blanketroll.html)".

[Edmund{Road Apple}]

If I'am not mistaking dosen't Asbestos cause cancer?

Or could I possibly be thinking of a diffrent kind?


Respesctfully,
Edmund Lockhart

[Charles Heath]

Most of these are from the articles section on this forum, which could be quite difficult to find until a link was installed on the main menu bar this morning. Hey, now that's progress!

Jason Goodnight's knapsack and blanket roll article:

http://www.26nc.org/Articles/knapsack%20and%20blanket%20roll.pdf

Kevin O'Beirne's packing article:

http://www.columbiarifles.org/Articles/Blanketroll_Packing.html

Mark Popish's light marching order article:

http://www.geocities.com/rowdy_pards/articles/LMO_.html

Steve Acker's campaigning article:

http://home2.owc.net/~domet/campaigncamping.htm

One from Bob Braun:

http://web.archive.org/web/20010124033000/33rdwisconsin.civilwarmuseum.com/33articles/blanketroll.html

Now let me add this, if none of the corporals or sergeants in your home unit are capable or willing to instruct you in something as simple as the packing of a knapsack or construction of a bedroll, then you need to find some group who at least has that much on the ball.

[Kevin O'Beirne]

There's an updated version available of my old "Knapsack and Haversack Packing 101" article. Anyone who wants it, drop me a note VIA E-MAIL (I cannot provide files via PM) at the address link below.

[MillerTime]

Would it be alright to use a canteen sling cut in half and used for straps? That has always worked for me. I just tie it like a shoe string.

Avery Miller

[pvtheath]

Thankyou gentlemen.

Pvt. Brad Heath

[Silas]

Mr. Heath,

You've received a wealth of information in your second set of posts on the A/C forum. You're lucky to have received so much. Other new members on this forum who have asked similar, basic questions had their heads handed to them on a platter. Maybe the season of season of giving helped save you.

Anyway, you'll do yourself a huge favor by doing a little searching on your own before asking a question. Searching this forum is a good start. Also, don't overlook basic search engines such as google. Search terms such as civil war, horse collar and blanket roll will provide many hits.

An interesting feature on the A/C forum is the "similar threads" box at the bottom of each topic. Your query on blanket rolls popped up several other threads from this forum. This won't help you on new queries, but when you see an interesting thread, take a gander to the bottom of the page. You may find other similar topics of interest. Food for thought.

[Gallo de Cielo]

One nice description I've run across was penned by a lad in the 9th Texas infantry in the late fall of 1861 in which he describes rolling his blanket to the folks back home as one man holding an end and the second twisting the blanket as if he was wringing it out. Clearly, images and written descriptions (which I would rely on far more than a modern reenactor- NCO or otherwise) are best and show a large number of methods.

My two cents.

[paulcalloway]

This was a 2004 discussion and I don't see it as being particularly useful to dredge it back up again.

[IowaYank]

Hello. I have seen others in the field carrying two gum blankets, one for above you and one for below you. I was wondering how much documenation there is out there for this??? I tried a search and didnt come up with an answer.
Thanks

[brown]

A private in the 105th Ohio by the name of Nisbett (I believe his first name is James) wrote to his father shortly after enlisting requesting that his father send him an india rubber blanket from home b/c he needed a second on. In a latter letter, he thanked his father and told him that it was so large that he cut it in half to share with another fellow.
**To my knowledge, these letters have never been published, but I read a transcription a number of years ago to prepare a first person impression for my seasonal position at an NPS site.
For what it's worth,
Lindsey Brown

[AZReenactor]

So we now have documentation that it happened at least once during the war. However, does that mean we now all have the green light to carry two gum blanket pieces?

I would be most curious if those you saw carrying two rubber blankets were doing so because they did back in 1861-65 or if it was merely a matter of conviennce today. You know, sorta like a single occupancy wedge tent, only smaller and more portable. It probably happened at least once, right?

Having rubber blankets above and below is quite handy and I am always glad to be bunking with a comrade who can make this possible in the field since even a single gum blanket is quite a luxury in the unit we depict.

The key to authenticity is to find out what the men you are portraying actually did and do that, not to see if someone back in history happened to do the latest reenacting fad on occaision to see if you can too.

A philisophical issue I know, but something worth considering when looking at possibly coppying other reenactors.

At least that's my $.02.

[IowaYank]

Troy, I agree that there probably isnt enough documentation to have lots of people carrying two. I wasnt planning on doing this, I was just curious as to how much documentation there is out there of this being a common occurance.
Thanks!!

[hireddutchcutthroat]

I would like to see quartermaster records of units drawing more than one rubber blanket. Keep PEC in mind.

[brown]

I would like to restate that I have seen documentation for it only ONCE (of course that's all the proof I need to get my leopard pants!) and that it was NOT an issue of two. Let's just say I don't carry two, and I wouldn't recommed it without a great deal more documentation. HOwever, it is a good question to bat around here (but not other places where seeing another guy do it is evdence enough...)
Respectfully,
Lindsey

[Guy Gane III]

Unless you are doing a specific unit - IMO I would have to assume that if the soldier felt he needed an extra blanket and the QM was stocked, what would prevent you from buying another one?? That is if the damn Paymaster showed up recently.... :sarcastic

[Pvt_Jack_Bauer]

Here is my whole view on "comfort authenticity" questions that are usually brought up. I just imagine myself as a soldier back in the 1860's...I am sure they had wet streaks back then and after some mornings waking up moist, what would stop me for searching around for an extra gum blanket. Whether picking it off a dead comrade or winning it in a card game, I am sure I could find one somehow. The beauty of the whole situation is that I could always dump it on the roadside whenever I wanted. We have to think that they were still human beings and had needs. If I was able to carry an extra gum blanket on the march and not complain then who am I hurting? Just my thought on it.

[Hoosier Yank]

When my g-g-g-g grandfather Wesley Chambers died on November 11, 1863 down in Vicksburg, the inventory of his personal effects listed two gum blankets.

[Kevin Hall]

Just to take a different angle on this; most soldiers then and now are much more likely to document or comment on the things that they do without, insted of things that are commonplace or excepted. Its human nature if you ask me. Sailors in the days of old would complain about missing their grog ration but you usually didn't hear a word about the normal ration, it was expected. How many times did a soldier in France during WW2 ever make mention of the cigarrette ration being normal today. You usually can't document creature comforts during the war like shaving even though we see from the photos that troops in all theaters of war did it on a regular basis. Its probably an oversimplification but I think a lot of time we expect CW troops to comment on things that where just a normal part of life. And as anyone that has kept dry with gum blankets can attest to its nice to have but you wouldn't write home about, it especially if it was everyday life.

Just my words for the birds,
Kevin Hall

[dbuckley]

Please note that the Nisbett fellow had his father send him one from home. He didn't draw one from the QM, and I agree that that probably wouldn't happen too readily, but winning one in a card game or any of those other methods of procurement are also just as valid. We all know they don't weigh much, and it sure would increase the comfort level of any soldier in the field.
I served over twenty years ago in the Army. I defy anyone 100 years from now to "document' the creative ways we modified our gear, purchased extras and carried "unauthorized" stuff. We wore it differently than designed, had mismatched gear ISSUED to us right from boot or the QM, and had very creative uses for black duct tape on everything from our web gear to our m-16's.
For only one minor example of our deviant behavior our rain ponchos could be folded flat on the rear of our web belts, rolled round and strapped with blousing bands, or not carried at all, and during formation and inspection not a word was said about these choices. Yet 100 years from now someone "in the know" will state that a rolled poncho is farby and unless someone can come up with proof they did it that way, no one should. Yet today I couldn't produce one picture or letter to home proving I did do that.
Hondreds of thousands of soldiers served in the Civil War, and needless to say when it came to comfort, anything and everything was probably tried, and they stuck with what worked for them as individuals.

[MPDoughBoy153]

I think if you want to carry two carry two. If you want to carry two extra pairs of socks carry two extra pairs of socks. It simply boils down to the fact that there is documentation anywhere you look of different types of occurances like the one in question. As I always say "we don't know cause we were'nt there". I don't think there is alot of documentation of size 50 fatique blouses but reenactors do wear them.

As a soldier in the modern US Army when I want something extra I can always get it somehow. Soldiers preference. Just my .02.

[Parault]

I agree on what ever works for the soldier at that time( meaning that week or night not that year or years). I know that Iwould do what it took to be comfortable any way I could . We must be careful though, Is there any documentation on size 13 EEE Brogans ? I am just happy to have one blanket and a pancho in the field.

[Pvt Schnapps]

I posted this before but I think it got lost in one of the crashes. This comes from:

On Campaign with the Army of the Potomac, The Civil War Journal of Theodore Ayrault Dodge, Stephen W. Sears, ed., Cooper Square Press, NY 2001

p. 109 December 12th, Dumfries “I carry 4 blankets and 2 India rubber ditto on my horse, rolled up & strapped to my saddle before & behind; so I sleep warm.”

Dodge was an officer, so maybe that doesn't count.

Having two gum blankets would not necessarily result from drawing two from the quartermaster, though in theory at least you could. You could also purchase one at auction from the effects of a dead soldier, or have one sent from home.

[10TnVI]

From "With Sherman to the Sea" -the C.W. letters, diaries, and remininscences of Theodore F. Upson-100th Indiana

Nov. 1862- Ft. Pickering, (near Memphis, TN)
" We have drawn rubber blankets(or 'ponchos' as they are called); they are about 6 1/2 ft. long and 3 1/2 ft. wide with eyelet holes in the sides and ends. We can lace two of them together at the sides and then with a forked stick at each end and a straight piece for a ridgepole can make a little tent that two can sleep under. If we have an extra one to close up one end and one to put on the ground it makes it better, so Taylor and I have drawn two each, which we are allowed to do."

So at least once in the war drawing two was officially sanctioned.

[AZReenactor]

Ok, so we've found evidence for a few individuals carrying multiple gum blankets on occasion. I never doubted we would. However, I'd still like to revisit the larger, more philosophical question of what that actually means to us as we strive to present as accurate a picture of history as possible.

The question that really needs to be asked isn't whether a few soldiers here or there managed to scrounge an extra "comfort" item on occasion or not, but whether or not our doing so helps us to more accurately represent the soldiers of the Civil War. As regards multiple gum blankets, certainly if they'd have had them they'd of used them, there is indeed documentation that some did. However, as some have pointed out there is a heck of a lot of abnormalities that might be documented if we look hard enough. Just because one or a few soldiers were able to do something, does that indicate that many or most were able to?

The philosophical question, the attitude issue, comes down to why, as a reenactor, might someone choose to carry two gum blankets (or any other extra or odd piece of equipment). Is it because that choice improves and enhances the authenticity and accuracy of the impression and more closely approximates the experience of Civil War soldiers? Or is it simply because they just want to have two and are willing to grasp at the thinnest shred of evidence in order to rationalize and justify the action as possibly being authentic? I heartily agree that it is authentic human nature to seek comfort when and where possible and have no doubt that the men we depict did so as well. I just don't see some of the many comfort choices being made by reenactors as having been as readily available to them as they are to us today and suggest that such choices be made with the most careful self-examination of one's motives.

Jaguar chaps, braces of pistols, cast iron cookware, four blankets, two gum blankets, and a multitude of other abnormalities can and have been documented as having occurred at select times and locations during the war, but that in no way translates that such items are then somehow typical for every other time and place during the war. If you are portraying James Nisbett, Wesley Chambers, Theodore Ayrault Dodge, Theodore F. Upson, or Taylor I would suggest that two gum blankets isn't only an option but probably a necessity. However, how common was it for the other 3.5 million or so Union and Confederate soldiers to have two gum blankets and is two gum blankets the best choice to accurately depict their experience.

I can't say with certainty whether or not two gum blankets might or might not be appropriate for your impression. (Heck, it maywell turn out that nearly everyone at certain times or places ought to carry two.) However, I would suggest that it is well worth careful consideration regarding its appropriateness for your specific impression before rushing out and buying that second gum blanket because you read on the AC that at least a few soldiers did..

[ScottCross]

Probably the easiest thing to do is what the soldiers actually did. Two men "Pard-up together", one rubber blanket on the ground, one woolen blanket next, (insert two soldiers here), the other man's woolen blanket above, and the other man's rubber blanket on top of all...in other words, "spoon". There is ample documentation for this practice, considerably more than for caring two rubber blankets. I did this in the field with my "Pard" for twenty-five years and it is the best method of all. Those boys weren't stupid.

[prestontoprail]

Just to chime in real quick I would say that this would have to be a situation that cannot be deamed regarding to "only a few" or even commonplace. As some one said earlier it is something that cannot be documented and should not be rediculed either. Soldiers hardly wrote home about the quantity of their issue apparel. You can't tell how many soldiers carried a tin cup or a mucket, if they still had leather shoe laces or had to replace them with cotton laces, what they tied their blanket rolls off with or what alterations were made to their jackets/pants. I think that if you wish to have 2 gum blankets and don't mind the extra weight, then there is just as much assumption to go ahead and do it considering it was an individuals circumstance either way.

I have run across a couple of mentions with soldiers carry two gum blankets in the "echoes of battle: the atlanta campaign", i'll see if I can dig up the documentation. However it cannot be nailed down as common or uncommon and it probably never will. Troy does have a point in stating that you should stick with what your issued to achieve the standard impression, but I still feel like this practice could very well have been common. We do know that the federal gum blanket was sought after from confederates, so the item itself was profitable to own. I would think if you had two of these then you may not need a blanket and it would help for every climate condition. But as Scott said, if your spooning then it shouldn't matter anyhow considering that you can split up the blankets/gum blankets however you like. Was it common to have the tin cup on the haversack strap? Inside the haversack? On the canteen strap? ON the blanket roll strap? On the knapsack strap? It can get rediculous with trying to classify these "custom" ideas that each individual soldier decided upon. Don't make it a fad, but don't be afraid to DO IT.

[paulcalloway]

Please post links or send them to me in a PM of the most frequently asked questions that drive you batty.

Not in an effort to single anyone out for stupid questions, but rather for FAQ fodder.

[Michael McComas]

Yep, and mesothelioma. You don't want to breathe the stuff. The problem with asbestos insulation was that it was sprayed in, and readily became an airborne dust. I don't know if asbestos cloth poses as great a risk, but it has largely been supplanted by man-made fire-proof fibers, like Zytex.

[hireddutchcutthroat]

Mr. Jerram

Excellent post!

Yes it does cause cancer, I had a former coworker that retired in late November die a few days ago due to cancer caused by asbestos. When he hired out on the railroad in his late teens his job was to replace asbestos bricks in the fireboxes of steam locomotives.

Does anyone have any information on the manufacture of asbestos cloth? My understanding is that it is woven from a clay.

[hireddutchcutthroat]

Tarnished buttons, What CS jacket should I wear for X, and defarbed muskets are a couple of mine.

[hireddutchcutthroat]

What Troy and I are trying to do here is keep the historical documentation coming and the "If they had it they would have used it" mentality posts to a minimum.

Keep the historical accounts coming.

[Vuhginyuh]

The tarred, oiled or enameled cloth questions.

[Becky Morgan]

Blanket roll how-tos
Children's clothing
Ladies' shoes

As you say, they're not dumb questions, only repetitive.

--Becky Morgan

[Pvt Schnapps]

I tried to answer a simple question with a simple answer, but I should have known better. There are no simple questions or answers and the simplest inquiry leads immediately to a consideration of one's entire philosophy of reenacting.

When we try to determine whether a particular aspect of an impression works for a scenario we need to consider both specific and general documentation. Specific documentation in this case would include a QM return for the unit you are portraying relevant to the event you are attending, a contemporary journal entry, or an equivalent objective original source.

But we don't always get that lucky, so how do you draw the line between doing something because it's right or just because you want to? Or how do you decide that what you want to do is probably right?

In the case of the original question in this thread, here are some thoughts relevant to a Federal impression:

The principal depots purchased about 3.4 million rubber or painted blankets and ponchos during the war (OR, Series III, Vol. 5, p. 285). These were not issued during the entire war -- they did not become a regular item Federal QM issue until late in 1861 at the earliest (Woshner's book excerpts a letter from Meigs to Stanton on the question from, I believe, November). From the citation earlier in this thread, it's clear that some western units didn't get them until late in 1862.

The total of 3.4 million does not include state or personal purchases. Some volunteers in 1861 had state-provided rubber or gutta percha blankets (and knapsacks). Some soldiers purchased them on their own (William Clayton in A Damned Iowa Greyhound writes home for one in 1862; interestingly, he records the first issue of shelter tents in June, 1863 -- with poles, but more than a year after eastern units received the tent d'abri).

We do not know how many of the 3.4 million rubber/painted blankets/ponchos wore out in service, were lost or stolen, or ended up in Confederate hands. The raw production numbers and the period over which they were issued give me the impression that having more than one would not be uncommon for a Federal soldier later in the war somewhere near a railhead.

If you're a veteran volunteer, just returned from your 30 day furlough home, having banked the first installment of your $400 Federal reenlistment bounty (and maybe up to a thousand from your state and locality), you might have all sorts of goodies, at least for a while.

If you're in garrison or winter camp you will probably have more than if you're on the march.

You will probably have more on you at the beginning of a campaign than at the end, although as you get further into a campaign and more people die, you may be able to get more of their stuff, if you have the money to buy it and think you can carry it.

You will probably have more if you're on the Overland Campaign in mid-64 than in the Carolinas in early '65, unless in the latter case you're coming in from the coast.

So the decision of what to carry must be based on who, when, and where you are. It will also help if you make the decision based on some first-hand experience with actually carrying and using the stuff. The important thing is that you as a living historian know why you have what you have and how you got it. There's probably nothing less authentic than to make that decision based simply on someone else's opinion. If you do your homework, that won't be an issue.

[Charles Heath]

Folks,

Resist the urge. You know you want to post it as bad as I want to post it, but resist the urge. :rolleyes:

[toptimlrd]

Would xyz article of clothing be correct for MY impression. (Question a unit should answer)

Is there any documentation for my obscure habit of carrying a (fill in the blank). (Usually trying to justify what they are already doing that is not PEC nor well documented)

[Charles Heath]

The whole genre of "how popular wazzit" questions.

[paulcalloway]

The whole genre of "how popular wazzit" questions.

Ah yes, good point. Perhaps even a general treatrise on "if they'd a had it they'd a used it".

[Chris Suppelsa]

Who makes the best X?

[paulcalloway]

FAQ crazies:
Aren't those clothes hot? Were you in the Civil War? Which side are you on? Are those guns real? Are we there yet? Who's Will? Fire in the hole?! You mean you slept on the ground with just a blanket? Who won? If they are cavalry then where are the horses? Nobody will know the difference will they?
mike boyd redroosterinalabama

Right before or while on Picket Duty...Do we get to shoot the musket? Are we raiding the the other camp? What are we suppose to do?

Hold up - we're going in the wrong direction now. We're looking for questions that reenactors ask when they first join this forum and/or the progressive movement.

We'll leave the general reenacting FAQ to our good friends at cwreenactors:

http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/images/sazbobanner.gif (http://www.cwreenactors.com/)

[Spinster]

Paul,

I've had to literally do the "this is a needle, this is the end you thread, this is how you thread it" talk on more than one occassion, for a feller with a perfectly good , well made, well stocked housewife in his hands. Usually happens with the Hardcore for Christmas sort of feller.

A FAQ on proper hand sewing threads and needles, how to do a running stitch, how to do a period mend, how to sew on a button would be a good thing.

Bust the 'ragged rebel' sort of thing yet another time as well--no man with the means to fix his clothing, and the time to do so would have gone around with the knees out or the shoulder ripped for more than a day or so. This skill was common knowledge of the time, and we should expect that knowledge in our own ranks, just as surely as a man should know how to load his weapon and cook his rations.

[JimKindred]

How do you ship a musket through UPS or the USPS?

This question comes up on this forum about every six months and I feel at times that I have written what could amount to a book on it explaining how it is done over the past few years.

[tomarch]

There's a variety of asbestos from Canada that comes out of the ground in a fiberous form. The fibers are long enough that they can be spun into thread and woven into cloth.

[Kiev Thomason]

See, this is why I hang with you guys...

:)
We have been friends for years and you post it here first .....I am hurt:cry_smile Thats crazy .Great post bring the article to the drill so I can read it all.

[Charles Heath]

Paul,

Gotta love that banner. It is perfect. :)

[Justin Runyon]

I think some of us are still missing the point of this thread. Take a look at Paul's subsequent post.

[paulcalloway]

Seriously guys -

we're looking for questions mainstream reenactors ask when they become interested in doing c/p/h ...

not general, "do you sleep in those tents" spectator questions.

[Rob]

"What is the correct rifle position for In Place, Rest ?"

:rolleyes:

[JimConley]

How about this one?

"I've got a Jarnigan (Or other sutler row crook) coat that I've torn up to look like I've been on campaign, how is that any different from a correctly made coat? I can look just as hardcore with my cheap S&#@ as the rest of you fellows."

About time to eliminate that mentality...

[NoahBriggs]

Slightly modified from the Confederate uniform question -

I want to portray . [I]What clothes should I wear, and where can I get them?

The rest I get when new fellows join one of the good civilian groups listed on the forum:

How do I, as a civilian, carry my stuff with me? What bags do I use? What do I do for a water container?
What kind of items should I carry with me in my pockets as a civilian?
I want to carry a pistol/shotgun/musket so I can interact with the Yankees. Is this a good idea? Karin Timour had a good reply to this and I think I saved it.


The only question which drives me batty are the stubborn ones who persist on developing a "generic XYZ" civilian impression and then look for ways to shovel said impression into every event they attend, whether the impression can be documented for that event or not. I'm pretty sure we'd recognize the questions which come out of that. They are corollaries towards the Heath "How popular wazzit" Peeve.

I believe a couple of years back I printed off this very forum a "work-in-progress" FAQ. Let me see if I can find it. If so, I will scan and send as a PDF, which might cut down on wheel reinventing time. :D

[Pvt Schnapps]

Folks,

Resist the urge. You know you want to post it as bad as I want to post it, but resist the urge. :rolleyes:

That's really helpful, Charles. Say -- why isn't Spottsylvania on your list anymore?

[Charles Heath]

Say -- why isn't Spottsylvania on your list anymore?

Feel free to ask Jeff Johannes. :D

His email is jjspanzer@hotmail.com

[Pvt Schnapps]

Feel free to ask Jeff Johannes. :D

His email is jjspanzer@hotmail.com

For a person who has something to say about everything, you don't actually have much to say, do you?

[Charles Heath]

For a person who has something to say about everything, you don't actually have much to say, do you?

Cupcake,

I have said quite a bit on the matter, and will say much more in the right time and place. Not being a member of the CRs, you may or may not be privy to the details of unit business. I'll leave it at that, and strongly suggest you do, too.

In the context of carrying two blankets, one can do a little research (maybe even use the search engine) and find a great passage about a mess carrying their own sheet iron stove on the march immediately after breaking up their winter camp. They made a good effort to carry the iron stove for a few days. Eventually, the stove parts were left along the route of march. Men will carry any number of things on the march from poultry to furniture to clothing to decorations -- even large iron dogs.

What does all this mean in the bigger scheme of things? If men are apt to inconvenience themselves by hauling a stove for their personal comfort, then a second gum blanket now and then is certainly not out of the question. Matter of fact, a number of AC Forum old timers probably remember an article about this very subject.

[Pvt Schnapps]

Cupcake,

I have said quite a bit on the matter, and will say much more in the right time and place. Not being a member of the CRs, you may or may not be privy to the details of unit business. I'll leave it at that, and strongly suggest you do, too.

In the context of carrying two blankets, one can do a little research (maybe even use the search engine) and find a great passage about a mess carrying their own sheet iron stove on the march immediately after breaking up their winter camp. They made a good effort to carry the iron stove for a few days. Eventually, the stove parts were left along the route of march. Men will carry any number of things on the march from poultry to furniture to clothing to decorations -- even large iron dogs.

What does all this mean in the bigger scheme of things? If men are apt to inconvenience themselves by hauling a stove for their personal comfort, then a second gum blanket now and then is certainly not out of the question. Matter of fact, a number of AC Forum old timers probably remember an article about this very subject.

Funnel Cake,

Thanks for the benediction. Why didn't you say so in the first place?

[Charles Heath]

Why didn't you say so in the first place?

I was truly hoping my somewhat larger than obvious comment would stir some fellow who had been in this wing of the hobby for more than 15 minutes to post the once common stove reference.

When it comes to burdens, men will carry some odd items. The references to the federals shucking their gear to the roadside (much to the great benefit of the locals) during the early Peninsular Campaign marches, are countered by men who fit the drawing of Si Klegg when first outfitted, and that image is countered by the threadbare appearances of the men at points during the Carolinas Campaign. We have reenacted events where an overcoat was greatly desired in August, and a fatigue blouse was too much in February. The scenario dictates much.

Other than as a sunshade, a rations tote, burial shroud, and a great target for yonder artillery, a shelter half is about useless as a teat on a boar hog; however, two men with two gum blankets each not only have a roof and a floor, but a nice addition on the end of their lodging.

We don't share well in this hobby, to bring up something Scott Cross mentioned earlier. If a man finds six Necco wafers on the ground, then he doesn't have six wafers, but only one, and his five comrades also have a candy apiece. Four gum blankets can sleep two men or two gum blankets can sleep three men. Depends on how folks share or not.

That's my take on it.

[prestontoprail]

The most frequent problem that I have dealt with in helping others to convert (or having to convince them) is the issue of doing more research. It really is amazing how some people are interested in this era so deeply that they will go out to reenact, yet they seem intimidated by being handed research material. I mean to be a proper living historian you are going to need to know as many details of the era as you can. For most of us it comes completely natural, but for some it is looked at as homework. There are alot of things you can teach people, but eventually they are going to need to read up as well.

That and the issue of money seem to weigh heavy on new converts. When you start adding up how much your impression is gonna cost to upgrade, assuming your starting over, then you will tend to seek out as many "bargains" as you can to avoid spending over 800 dollars for uniform parts alone. I can remember thinking like this when I was coming over from the dark side many years ago and I seemed to be searching for authentic items that weren't as expensive as the usual places to go. Of course I found out that these places either A. Do not exist or B. Are not selling repros of correct construction or material.

And if these issues cannot be overcome , then the individual has discovered what it would take to upgrade to an accurate living historian and has decided that he does not fit the muster. Once I can see new guys seeking better uniform parts and doing any level of research then I know that they are getting the right mentality.

(Of course Paul I have sent your article "Before you buy a thing.." to many people and belive me, it helps.)

[GrumpyDave]

I can't remember the last time I was at an event without two gum blankets. Carrying a 2nd gum is really, nothing at all. Anyway, E.H. Rhoades makes mention of drawing a second gum as does I believe W. Fisk, just off the top of my head. I lean twords a couple of things here. First, will/would the QM records reflect one or a few men in a company drawing a 2nd Rubber blanket or would you also have to check muster rolls? Second, how can we tell if a group of men in a unit were re- issued gum blankets they threw their existing gum blankets away?And, lastly, would this fall into the category of things that were so common to the boys of 186x that they would make little or no mention of it? Those boys were pretty smart about such things as their living conditions on campaign or in a camp would dictate. That rubberized piece of cloth is one damned handy implement.

Use common sense, they did.

[huntdaw]

Not so much on this forum but it's the "Why can't we get along?" "Why are hardcores so mean?" etc. stuff that I just get sick of.

This then turns into a 300 reply post on what the differences are, why authentics are jerky stitch counters who hate everyone etc. etc. etc. ad nauseum. Man, how many times can you play that tune?! I especially love the few that will take a fairly decent post and try to turn it into an 'us vs. them' argument.

[HOG.EYE.MAN]

Here's what I hear people ask:


How can I find recipes for; oil cloths, haversacks, rubber blankets, hardtack, etc...?

Where can I find patters for; kepies, haversacks, uniforms/gear in general?

How do I pack a knapsack/bedroll? What can I use to tie off a bedroll? When can I use my overcoat? How long should I use my straps?

When and where can I wear my NC Jacket?

How late can I wear my Commutation Jacket?

Can I wear a frock coat to cover every event?

How common was it to wear a modified sack coat?

Should I add pockets to my jacket/coat?

How do I modify my pockets on my trousers?

If I'm doing a Federal impression, when and where do I wear a corps badge?

Can I buy period fabric at modern fabric stores?

I have a buzz cut.... Is this authentic hair?

Should I get shoes with or without hobnails?

Should I buy shoes or boots?

How should I go about buying period eyeware?

How do I hide modern medicine and where do I go to take it?

Should I buy a shelter half?

What kind of buttons should I have on my shelter half, tin or bone?

What should I smoke? wood pipe, clay pipe, or cigar?

What should I bring with me on campaign that's non issue?

How do I build a shebang?

What's the best type of button to use for shirts, trousers, jackets and coats?

What type of civilian button should I use for my civilian frock?

What type of drawers do I buy?

My hat shrunk, how can I fix it? How can I re-shape it? How can I modify it?

What kind of canteen should I buy? With or without beezwax? Hot dipped tin? Wood?

What kind of canteen sling should I use?

Should I buy drill manuals? How do I learn how to drill before I attend the event?

How do I roll cartridges? What kind of paper? What type of powder? What's the best thing to use to fill the void of a bullet? What do I use to tie it off? How do I fold the top?

[Chris Suppelsa]

1. Place down groundcloth
2. Place down wool blanket
3. Lay down
4. Fold wool blanket over you
5. Fold groundcloth over you

problem solved:tounge_sm

[Pvt Schnapps]

The paperwork implications are indeed intriguing.

Well, to some sick minds.

If a soldier drew two gum blankets at once, it should show on the clothing receipt roll (QM 52). If a soldier drew one at two different issues, you wouldn't be able to tell whether he'd kept the first or lost it in the meantime.

There would also be no official paper if he bought one at the auction of a dead soldier's effects, or ordered it from home, or picked it up from the field or a camp site (which is how William Ray got the extra shelter half that he and his pard split and sewed onto the ends of their own so they could stretch out at night), unless of course he died later and it showed up on his inventory of effects.

The quarterly/monthly return of clothing, camp and garrison equipage would only show the total number issued to soldiers in the period covered by the report, not the number on hand, because a blanket is clothing and thus personal property. The total number of shelter halves should show up on the return, because they're camp and garrison equipage and thus company property, but there'd be no way of telling whether they'd been field modified a la Ray.

It's one of those areas where asking for documentation is a little tricky and will probably never rise above the anecdotal. I just re-read "Up Front" by Bill Mauldin over the weekend and, although it deals with WWII, it opens the mind to all sorts of possibilities.

Anyway, speaking of paperwork, if you take it too far you have to conclude that very few soldiers ever cleaned up after using the sinks -- there are, after all, far more references to the term "sh*t arse" than to the use of necessary paper.

[PvtShot]

Lads,

Being a tall lad, I got sick and tired of always having my feet or head in the damn dirty dust, or curling into a fetal posistion, so I started to carry two groundcloths. That extra piece of rubber is about the most valuble thing that I take with me to an event, besides a spare shirt and socks.

I understand what this thread is trying to express, but just trying to make sure that guys are wearing their "top notch" gear in the right manner Is a chore in itself... yet alone what gear is proper for any given soldier, unit, and/or time period.

Good Luck!
Eliot Toscano
(The Buckras)

[Duke20thSC]

The paperwork implications are indeed intriguing.

Well, to some sick minds.

If a soldier drew two gum blankets at once, it should show on the clothing receipt roll (QM 52). If a soldier drew one at two different issues, you wouldn't be able to tell whether he'd kept the first or lost it in the meantime.

There would also be no official paper if he bought one at the auction of a dead soldier's effects, or ordered it from home, or picked it up from the field or a camp site (which is how William Ray got the extra shelter half that he and his pard split and sewed onto the ends of their own so they could stretch out at night), unless of course he died later and it showed up on his inventory of effects.

The quarterly/monthly return of clothing, camp and garrison equipage would only show the total number issued to soldiers in the period covered by the report, not the number on hand, because a blanket is clothing and thus personal property. The total number of shelter halves should show up on the return, because they're camp and garrison equipage and thus company property, but there'd be no way of telling whether they'd been field modified a la Ray.

It's one of those areas where asking for documentation is a little tricky and will probably never rise above the anecdotal. I just re-read "Up Front" by Bill Mauldin over the weekend and, although it deals with WWII, it opens the mind to all sorts of possibilities.

Anyway, speaking of paperwork, if you take it too far you have to conclude that very few soldiers ever cleaned up after using the sinks -- there are, after all, far more references to the term "sh*t arse" than to the use of necessary paper.


I like the way you talk. Ummmmhh! Reckin thar's any paperwork on potted meat sommers? Er mustard?

Duke
David Culberson
The Rowdy Pards

[bAcK88]

Besides drawing or purchasing an extra gum blanket, veterans were known to have raided the belongings of green units.

pg. 91 from "Perryville: This Grand Havoc of Battle" by Kenneth W. Noe:"The nights began to grow cool and as we had no blankets the boys went to foraging among the 'fresh fish' and in due course of time they were comfortably fixed and the new fellows relieved of considerable weight." The 10th Indiana hardly was alone. Jesse Connelly of the 31st Indiana recorded the theft of cooking utensils from the rookie 90th Ohio Infantry.

I don’t have in with me, but John Haley in “Rebel Yell and Yankee Hurrah” writes about how the 17th Maine raided the knapsacks of the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery during the Overland Campaign.

Bill

[paulcalloway]

Besides drawing or purchasing an extra gum blanket

I believe standard issue was 1 per year. I'll have to look that up.

[bAcK88]

I believe standard issue was 1 per year. I'll have to look that up.


I was under the impression that for a five year enlistment, one would draw two blankets over the five years.

[Enfilade]

I always hear this one...

"Can I just wear my Type 2 and sky blues or will I have to buy another coat?":rolleyes:

Mark Berrier
North State Rifles
http://www.northstaterifles.com
combinations@northstate.net

[paulcalloway]

Alright, you've all posted a lot of good questions here - now, can you provide an authentic answer to the question(s) you posed? If so, please post them or send them to me. Well sourced answers are much preferred.

I'm rebuilding the FAQ and your contributions are really appreciated - the more you contribute, the less I have to write all by myself.

[Pvt Schnapps]

The table of issues applies to regulars. Volunteers received a clothing allowance of $3.50 a month ($42 a year later raised, I think, to $46) from which they could draw what they wanted, after the initial allowance, or what they were ordered to.

As an example of what the latter could lead to, Red Tape and Pigeon Hole Generals describes the "frock coat mutiny" that resulted when a 9 month volunteer regiment was ordered -- about a month before their time was up and just after their clothing accounts were squared away -- to draw new frock coats for parade, at some $6.50 per.

Even if it doesn't always apply, the table gives us some idea of how long items were expected to last in normal service.

In other news...

DUKE!!!! I would have said something earlier, but as soon as I saw your by-line I was blinded by a bright white light.

Elvis is back in the building.

[John E. Tobey]

Irritating Reenactor Question: "Sergeant, it's raining and I'm soaked to the bone and cold. I've got to get up early tomorrow to go to work. I'm going to head home now, all right?"

Authentic Reply: "Get back in line, soldier."

J. Tobey

[HOG.EYE.MAN]

1. Place down groundcloth
2. Place down wool blanket
3. Lay down
4. Fold wool blanket over you
5. Fold groundcloth over you

problem solved:tounge_smThis does not work...... And if it appears to be working, wait until you fall a sleep.

Scott Cross, IMHO has the best advice in this thread. Pair up with mess mates, and share your blankets to stay warm or dry. (Somewhat dry ;)) What's more common to do? That right there.

Thanks,

[billmatt04]

Scott Cross, IMHO has the best advice in this thread. Pair up with mess mates, and share your blankets to stay warm or dry. (Somewhat dry ;)) What's more common to do? That right there.



I agree. At a recent event two of my pards and I got our shelters, blankets, and gums together - we had two shelter halves on the bottom, with a blanket stretched longways across it to accommodate the three of us, then we crawled in and covered ourselves with the other two blankets, gums, and shelter half - and we spent a comfortable night (though we woke up with a little bit of frost). However, with as much as I roll around at night it was inevitable that the blankets got all askew and I would wake up and have to readjust them. In the morning we rolled up our beds and marched out, each of us with a blanket roll with his shelter half, gum, and blanket. Just thought I'd pass this along incase anyone wanted to try it.

[sauguszouave]

"What is the correct rifle position for In Place, Rest ?"

:rolleyes:

This is a trick question in the "If You Look Hard Enough You Can Always Find One Unit That Did x" category. The original unit that my group portrays (Co J, 8th Mass. Vol. Militia, Spring 1861) used a manual of arms (Elmer Ellsworth's "Manual of Arms for Light Infantry...") that actually included three positions for In Place, Rest: one for arms at Order, one for arms at the Shoulder, and one for arms at Support.

Regards,

Paul Kenworthy

[58th C]

Do I really need a corset?

Yes, and if it fits properly it won't be uncomfortable.

Lauren Kaye

[Chris Suppelsa]

This does not work...... And if it appears to be working, wait until you fall a sleep.

Scott Cross, IMHO has the best advice in this thread. Pair up with mess mates, and share your blankets to stay warm or dry. (Somewhat dry ;)) What's more common to do? That right there.

Thanks,

Sure it does, I've done it for the last two years with satisfactory results.

Spooning is better of course.

[HOG.EYE.MAN]

Spooning is better of course.Yes, it's the best solution.

Wrapping yourself up like a burrito does not work very well for everyone. I'm not saying it don't work for you, but it's not the best solution to keep warm and dry. I've tried it before, and can never stay wrapped up like that because I tend to move around too much. As far as the rubber blanket being wrapped up too, it always falls back to the ground.

The best, and most common solultion to this question has already been answered.

[paulcalloway]

We used to call this spoon feeding, any topic could become irksome if the questions aren't completely answered and made in to a good article. I guess Paul wants more serious articles that address these issues squarely and relate them to the type of issues we most commonly encounter, most stem from reenactorisms that are practiced at mainstream events. We need articles that treat the subject in a realistic manner, i.e. take a topic like "women in the ranks", instead of preconceived and biased articles that want to "justify" female soldiers, we need a fair and scientific article, that should demonstrate exactly how rare that was (hypothesis). Another would be soldiers without shoes or tent usage, Personal opinions are to be aruged with, good research teaches.

You can argue with beliefs and opinions but, facts stand on their own. Good specific articles with specific references, unbiased facts and solid empirical will kill the myths.

Provided that someone ever read the "primary resource" or article sections of this forums.

Quoted because it's an excellent point and one I've been trying to make. Well said.

I think we have enough questions now. I've just opened a new thread for answers (http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8423&page=2). Please pick some of the questions you CAN answer and post your well considered, well sourced answers in the other thread. Use that handy-dandy search feature you're fond of recommending to others!

We'll get those replies added to the FAQ. Hopefully that thread will be just as popular! :rolleyes:

[Belleof Dixie]

I have been reading the posts and felt compelled to add my 2 cents worth.

With regards to Civil War soldiers actually using quilts:

In the book "Threading the Generations: A Mississippi Family's Quilt Legacy" by Mary Elizabeth Johnson and Carol Vickers, University of Mississippi Jackson, 2005, the Shaifer family's history is documented from the arrival in Mississippi of Abram Keller Shaifer in or around 1813. Abram (A.K.) married Elizabeth Hannah (Betsy) Humphrey on May 15, 1817 and the two began housekeeping in the Port Gibson
area.

Betsy died shortly after the war and listed in her will which was probated on December 24, 1867 , there are listed among other items, "4 comforts", valued at a total of $6.00. "Comforts" being the common term for quilts at that time. (p. 20)

The Shaifers built a home at Holly Hill, outside Port Gibson. Their last child, A.K., Jr. was born in 1833 in that home and lived there his entire life. He along with two of his brothers served in the Confederate Army. While he was away at war, his wife Elizabeth Girault, two small sons and mother who was in failing health, remained in the family home at Holly Hill, along with a sister-in-law and her son and daughter.

As General Grant's troops advanced toward Vicksburg, fighting broke out around the Shaifer home (the first skimish of the Battle of Port Gibson). The family fled to Port Gibson with what little the women could pile atop a wagon. During the ensuing battle, the Shaifer home was used as General Headquarters by US General John A. McClernand as well as a Union hospital. (p. 27) All that remained in the house was at the disposal of US forces for approximately 10 days. It is therefore believed that all quilts, sheets and blankets were used for bandages and bedding for the wounded. (p.28)

In the late 186o's Kell began corresponding with William Duffner, an Indiana man who had fought for the Union and had scene action in the Battle of Port Gibson. Eventually, Kell began exchanging letters with Federal soldiers from Ohio and Iowa, also. (p.42)

A passage from one of Kell's letters reads in part...."Right or wrong I am a Confederate and will die one. Because Earl allowed his men to take the featherbed from under my 70-year-old mother, must I forget that Colonel Blackburn dismounted and ministered to me when I was at the point of death on the road to Montrose after he fall of Blakely? (p.45)

This seems to me significant evidence to me to believe that soldiers may have carried quilts from time to time. The bulk of a wet quilt not withstanding, I find it impossible to believe that a soldier in need of warmth after losing his standard issue wool blanket would not have used anything at his disposal, practical or not, until a more suitable replacement could be acquired.

For anyone interested, I have found the following two books useful references in studying period correct quilts. Both show dated, authentic examples of quilts, have timelines for quilt designs, and show some examples of period fabrics. They are:

Better Homes and Gardens Quilting Pieces of the Past: 175 Years of Quilting Inspiration, Meredith Books, Des Moines, IA, 2004 and Fons and Porter Presents Quilts From The Henry Ford: 24 Vintage Quilts Celebrating American Quilting, Landauer Books, Urbandale, IA, 2005.

Lori Parault

[Tom Ezell]

Frank's quilt articles in the Camp Chase Gazette ran in the March & April 2004 issues. Ms. Hughes also had a very nice summary article on the use of quilts in the reenacting ranks in the Watchdog, Winter 1999 and Fall 1999 issues (Vol. 6, Nos. 1 and 4).

The Confederacy's resources for making woolen blankets was extremely limited... so we probably see way too many woolen blankets in the CS camps, as these needed to be imported (as many were from Great Britain), or as limited opportunities arose, acquired from one of Uncle Sam's nephews who had no further use for it.

My experience is that when you ask a question in a public forum about quilts, you get at least forty 'leven conflicting pieces of advice as to what is and what ain't a period-correct quilt. There's no doubt that a fair number of soldiers both North and South went off to war with quilts. Many of these quilts went the way of Si Klegg's quilt during the process of "getting used to it" and adjusting one's load to what could be feasibly carried on the march. Others, especially the blanket-poor Confederates, hung onto theirs longer, or at least until they had access to something a little better.

I added a patchwork quilt to my kit several years ago, and carried it in a short roll along with an oil cloth at the 2000 Wilson's Creek re-enactment, so I can affirmatively state that at least in 6 inches of rain, a quilt makes at best a soggy pillow of sorts, and takes several days to dry out after that, provides that Mother Nature cooperates with your efforts. Neither does it do all that well at keeping you warm by itself on those really frigid nights out in the field, but even a quilt is a whole lot better than nothing at all ;-)

It's good to see more coverlets show up in the ranks, now if there was just a good source for correct carpet blankets...

[ScottCross]

I thought this subject had been discussed to death years ago, but evidently not. There are good written accounts about the use of home-made woolen blankets in the Confederacy and documented examples in museums. Family Hierloom Weavers makes several varities, and if you hit the antique stores you can still find original two-piece blankets for sale (I own two). Family Hierloom also manufactures historically correct ingrain carpeting which can be purchased in strips and sewn together to form a carpet blanket. There are other weavers making the same ingrain carpet strips on narrow looms. Once again, if you keep your eyes pealed, you can also find originals in antigue stores and flea markets. I've got enough of the stuff to carpet two rooms and several hallways in my home.

[56spencer]

Greetings All,

One more citation for "comfort"

"North Carolina Yeoman: The Diary of Basil Armstrong Thomassson, 1853-1862", Paul D. Escott - Editor, Univ. of Georgia Press, 1996:

"Went over to Buck Shoal Factory and bought 5 lbs of waste cotton, for 5 cts per lb. of which I and Mollie paded a comfort, and it is, indeed, comfortable to sleep under these cold nights."

This is a portion of the January 21, 1856 entry

[Spinster]

. Would love to see photos of an original.

Wouldn't that be lovely Doug!

I have in my collection a cot sized quilt--thick and heavy as lead. The batting is pounded down by years of use, and the fact that additional quilts have been made over the first one. Before it was conserved, I could peek through layers and see at least two other quilts, possibly three, inside the top one, each of earlier fabrics.

I rescued it from a dog bed, cleaned it up, and had the good fortune that the last maker recognized her work ( and her old dresses), as it hung to dry on my line in the late 1970's. She was then nearly 90, and counted the item to be more than 60 years old, made in a manner she used to make warm items for charity work.

The size and wet weight of that quilt, and the days it took to dry when I washed all the 'doggy' out of it still lingers with me as I read the descriptions of period comforts, with the knowledge that this particular cotton quilt has been worn out 3 times.

I have often wondered what mighty rocky road it may have marched down.

[Bob 125th NYSVI]

Heavy blanket no doubt.

We always called that here in NY.

Bob Sandusky
Co C 125th NYSVI
Esperance, NY

[PrvtA]

Recently I ran across a site while searching for ways to use the gum blanket or an ordinary blanket to avoid the purchase of a knapsack and also to be able to use in conjunction with a bedroll. It is under the name of a tumpline. I was wondering if it is correct for the period of time we portray. The website is based on the 18th century. Anything helps, the website is http://www.18cnewenglandlife.org/18cnel/wallets.htm .



Kevin Alexander

[Justin Runyon]

This has come up before. It's my oppinion, and if I recall the oppinion of the board, that their is no evidence for the use of the tumpline for military applications during out time period. It is far better to use the old mule collar, short roll, or knapsack. The tumpline seems to be exclusive to endogenous cultures, and those whites that spent a great deal of time with them.

[Charles Heath]

Kevin,

You may find the several articles concerning just the info you seek -- located at this link:

http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/links/browselinks.php?c=14

[FlatLandFed]

Friend Kevin,
The line art of a short roll in use wouldn't come up via the search function, but I did find this photo that Robert Johnson submitted in a discussion on short rolls in 2004. I used the short roll at Franklin because I'd broken my arm and didn't have the range of motion to easily sling a pack (although arm not cast, just in a sling).
Comfortable enough that I've used a short pack at other events. As has been mentioned, its advantage over the horse collar in hot weather is that you don't seem to have the heat build up, less chafing potential, &tc, and IMHO easier to get off and on than a "full" blanket roll when there's fightin' to be done.
Try it out.
Paul Hadley
Just Another in the Ranks

[pvt. hardscrable]

Confederates are well documented using quilts due to the lack of government issue blankets. Union soldiers on the other hand rarley used them because thre govt. issue wool blankets were much warmer and lighter. I think that it would be very authentic to use a quilt while reenacting as a confederate.

[ElizabethClark]

Sir, please use your actual name, rather than initials--and please share some of the documentation you've found. "Well documented" does go far without a few citations.

[30th IL]

I was thinking of getting a gum poncho and I would appreciate any input/advice. Thanks.

[ley74]

Personally, I have found the things useless, as an infantryman. Difficult to use to sleep on, as the hole allows seepage in the most embarrasing spots, and the hole allows too much water in when used as it is intended.

On the other hand... a gum blanket works everytime, correct for almost every occassion and wraped around your neck (fastened in front by any period method) works better than a poncho. One less piece of stuff to carry, as well.

[Kevin O'Beirne]

Ley Watson's advice is good. Federal infantrymen typically carried a gum blanket (vulcanized rubber over canvas backing) whereas ponchos were more common in the cavalry. Each was used by the other branch at times.

However, Ley's right: a poncho when worn for protection against wet weather leaks at the neck and the sides flap all over the place in the wind. On the other hand, when I ditched the poncho I used to wear in the rain for a gum blanket simply wrapped around my shoulders and secured in front with either a string or a knapsack's "J"-hook, I stayed a lot drier.

As a groundcloth, gum blankets have ponchos beat. The neck-slit in a poncho allows water into the middle of the groundcloth and of course that gets your mid-section wet at night. A gum blanket, on the other hand, has no penetrations through it (unless you put them there yourself) and keeps you drier.

[Charles Heath]

I was thinking of getting a gum poncho and I would appreciate any input/advice. Thanks.

Matt,

You'll probably find the article on page II-27 (140) in the CRRC-2 to be of good use. The article is located in the material culture section, and is titled "Gum Blankets, Painted Blankets, and Ponchos."

Reproduction gum blankets vary in quality and accuracy. If you ever have the opportunity to examine originals, you'll no doubt wonder why the vast majority of reproductions are too heavy, have incorrect grommets and grommet placement, and even, in some cases, are made with water soluable glue. Choose wisely.

[billyreb61]

Which one, gum blanket or poncho, is the better overall choice for using at events????

[BrianHicks]

Recently discussed here:

http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9418&highlight=gum+blanket+poncho

[billyreb61]

thanks for your help brian!

[roundshot]

Another good view of a short roll, and an interesting mess kit or canteen combo to boot, worn by one of Gosline's Zouaves. From the LOC collection.

[PanzerJager]

Weekly Arkansas Gazette, May 25, 1861:

"Good Suggestion.—We have been shown by Dr. Everett a most excellent article for our soldiers. It consists of two widths of cotton osnaburgs sewed together, forming a blanket 2 ½ yards long and 2 yards wide. It has a lit in the middle, so as to serve as a Mexican ponchar (sic), and its chief use is to sleep on and cover with at night. A little paint and oil makes it an excellent water proof tarpaulin and the whole cost will be about 76 cents. Every soldier should instantly provide himself with one, for it is folly to go to the field without something to protect from rain and dampness."

Regards,

[J.H.Berger]

Comrades, I am in need of if possible detailed measzurements /infos about existing original gum blankets and ponchos. I have the QM Manual details, the iones of the Arabia and two privately owned ones but am searching for more info.
This is still an item which seems to be not reproduced in the proper way altghough some efforts have already been made.
So I would liek totry myselb but would like to get more info about originals first.
Any info is most welcome!
Regards from Germany

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

One easy source for dimensions is in the Columbia Rifles Compendium in Section
II.27 "Gum Blankets, Painted Blankets and Ponchos", pages 141-143. There are dimensions for several gum blankets and ponchos with details on the grommets, etc.

[J.H.Berger]

Well I should have told so, I hav ethose as those are from the CMH magazine. but thank you!

[Clsinclair]

Greetings to Germany,

Some of the measurements are 68" X 44", 62" X 38", and 69.5" X 32 3/4". From page 142 of "The Columbia Rifles Research Compendium".

Hope that this helps somewhat.

Regards,

Claude Sinclair
Lancaster, SC

[Curt-Heinrich Schmidt]

Hallo!

From the wreck of the U.S.S. Maple Leaf, sunk on the St. Johns River, FLorida, April 1, 1864:

poncho: 48 X 71
poncho: 44.25 by 72

gum blanket: 43.75 X 75.63
gum blanket: 45 X 68.50
gum blanket: 47 X 70
gum blanket: 32.75 X 69.50
gum blanket: 44 X 68
gum blanket: 42 X 65.02
gum blanket: 48 X 73.50
gum blanket: 33 X 62
gum blanket: vertical half only, 19 x 62
gum blanket: 32 X 57
gum blanket: 32 X 60

Ideally, 48 X 72 and later 60 X 71.

Curt

[J.H.Berger]

Oops my mistake, I have meant the Maple leave blankets, not Arabia and as I have stated I have the CRRC dimensions to, thanks.

[DougCooper]

One aspect of this event that was interesting to see was the stress on our equipment and how we all rigged our equipment.

I anticipated fouled weapons, as some companies were firing all day and then had to go on guard at night, not having time to clean weapons with the bad guys so close. But we never had any serious problems there, and in the morning the weapons still worked. The cone pick was feely used and occasionally a cone removed and cleaned, but our company never had a serious problem requiring disassembly beyond that.

Not so with belts, straps, etc. Running, climbing and simple marching over 5 days stretched and broke many a strap , sling and belt during this event, requiring field fixes, new holes, shortening and sometimes complete repairs. I started with a waist belt on one hole and finished with a new hole about 4 inches farther in, as did several of us. The first two days we imagined that we were losing weight, which of course was not true - bayonet, cap pouch and cartridge box were stretching them out. Haversack straps, unaccustomed to being full of bacon and hardtack, etc, were stretched as well - I not only re-sewed the strap on tighter to the bag once but put a knot in the strap as it stretched (cotton haversack).

Additionally, I noticed that correctly made equipment tended to perform better and weighed less as well. Knapsacks were an obvious case, and we had one on the back of fresh fish in our company. The thick straps and poor leather on this knapsack made by brand X tended to break at the joints and have to be reattached. We held this same knapsack up against an approved vendor bag and noted a marked difference in weight, let alone appearance. Most of us had the good stuff, but the not so good stuff performed poorly, weighted more and will likely be discarded before the next event.

Still another reason to use the approved vendor list - probably the best reason.

The other aspect that we all knew would be perfected over such a long marching event was rigging our gear for the best support and comfort on the march. All of us learned that. I had figured that a number of 5-8 mile marches before the event made me good to go, but I had not figured on all the exertion of going up hills, across creeks, skirmishing, etc. I re-learned that a blanket roll seperate from the knapsack was lighter, more comfortable and actually cushioned the knapsack a bit, keeping it in place better while running. We all moved stuff around, and those that had not already, shortened their canteen slings and cartridge box slings.

The practice of running the knapsack shoulder straps under the overcoat straps on the top (if a federal bag) was universal, and made the knapsack ride much better. You can do this with straps or a bit of rope with the wooden piece at the top of an Issac and Campbell bag as well. Most vets know this, but we made sure the young guys did it as well.

It was interesting to note the various ways soldiers carried skillets, boilers, pots, cups, hatches, etc. This was modifed due to being close to the enemy as well. Cups not secured inside the havesack tended to bang on the bayonet or canteen. We needed to be very quiet from time to time.

It was quite a "school of the campaigner" for everyone.

[Charles Heath]

One aspect of this event that was interesting to see was the stress on our equipment and how we all rigged our equipment.

Generally speaking, after each and every campaign event, as few and far between as they are, some fellow writes a "wow, our gear works as designed!" type post or article. Some of the text is concerned with how well brand X works over brand Y, and other portions are confirmations of lessons learned, and yet other discussions yield themselves to mundane arguments over hooking verses crossing, as in what to do with knapsack straps minus the 1855 rifleman's belt. In fact, that song was sung in the last couple of weeks to the tune of "tastes great, less filling."

The biggest difference isn't in the gear so much as it is the type of event. Putting some mileage on reproduction, and in some cases putting additional mileage on 145-year old equipment, is different from a "walk in the park LH," a SOYA picket post, or the fellows deluding themselves into thinking sleeping without canvas at a mainstream (or worse) event is somehow the same as being on campaign. This may be one of the reasons the more experienced campaigners also enjoy primitive camping (in the modern sense), trekking, long hunting, and those type events. Some, such as the legendary Tim Shaw, moved on to another era where woodcraft, fieldcraft, and being able to sustain oneself was the prime objective well over a decade ago.

The lessons learned vary from event to event. If one went back to read the comments on designer label gear from Red River 2, then the comments would be about 180-degrees out from Banks Grand Retreat. Of prime derision was one (more famous on the runways of Paris and Milan now than then) maker's knapsacks with incredible stretch, and in at least one case where the stitching between the straps and the bag itself pulled out just like a feed bag. Well, yes, there is an admonition not to cut the excess thread from the lockstitch and play open-the-Purina-bag, isn't there? Yep, there sure is. Some of the gear from "no-name" makers held up rather well, too, but campaigning isn't about the gear. Never has been, and Gribble points that out (once again) in his thread about myths, etc.

People learned a poncho or gum blanket would trap and create a minature rainforest effect during warm weather sprinkles, while other folks took a light mist as good wool weather. It's a learning experience every time. Participants learn an offset gum blanket wrap is superior to an even wrap, and a knapsack hook or specialty button is a handy item to have in a convenient location, say....hooked on to the interior closing straps of a knapsack.

In another few days or maybe a week, folks would learn how cotton duck reacts to rot versus twill, and why cotton in tropical and subtropical environments is good for some applications, but not all. The usual lessons learned typically include most of the items on the traditional Sgt. Major's pre-event "101 things you should do now" checklist emailed to participants not long before the event commences. I found, and still find useful those tips such as:



18. Put a couple of extra holes in your waistbelt, as if you were going on the Jenny Craig march. You may need them, and the work done with the proper tool will be neater than a pocketknife or bayonet hole. Yes, someone will have a hole punch in the parking lot, but expect than individual to be a mile from his vehicle when YOU need it. Fix it now.

24. High and tight isn't just a maxim for the haircuts of Uncle Sam's Misguided Children. Gear that flops about will wear you out. No floppy canteens. No banging cups. No pendulum skillets. You aren't the Tinman or the village tinker. Shorten. Secure. Tighten. Fix it now.

36. Check all of your gear for any mending that may need accomplishing NOW and sit in front of the TV/idiot box and do it. A loose button may make it through a weekend, but won't make it while being rubbed by a cartridge box belt for umpteen miles. Inspect. Repair. Reinspect. Fix your stuff, now.

37. Whip out the shoe polish/boot blacking and go over your leather gear, and shoes at least twice between now and the event. The moisturizing effect is good, plus the waterproofing is better than nothing. Those early morning dews can soak a pair of issue shoes as if you'd forded a creek. Dry leather is squeaky leather. Squeaky gives away your position.

38. Double check your socks. Need to do some darning? Look up a how-to-darn website and get it done. Get it done now. Need a darning egg? Use an old lightbulb. Bring at least two pair of socks to BGR, because you'll wear holes in one pair the first day, and wish you had a spare pair to rotate the rest of the time out there. Use your knapsack to dry yesterday's socks today, because you will want them to be dry tomorrow. How to do that? Use those three little straps at the bottoms and weave 'em in place. Other methods work as well. Dry socks = Good.

39. Hanging your socks over a fire to dry generally accomplishes three things: The socks shrink, the socks burn, and some nice socklady gets a fresh order for more socks. If you flop down, expect to fall asleep.

40. Sharpen any knives you plan to carry. A man without a pocketknife might was well nail his dick to a wagon wheel and be done with it.. A man without a sharp pocketknife isn't much better off. If you have a somewhat larger knife, you may want to sharpen it and bring it along, too. Being the only man in the battalion with a knife of any kind, and getting the job of cutting 225 lbs. of bacon is not fun. Don't bring a boy to do a man's job.

41. Open your haversack. Dump out the crap in it. See the mold and mildew. Clean it. This is a good time to wash your poke bags, so they have time to dry. Make sure you have a mess rag aka scrap of wool blanket that damn Charles foists on you at so many f'n events. Have a decent towel aka huck howel for washing your face, ass, and mess gear. Understand the order of this cleansing process. Have a ragged but clean towel to rip into sections of ass wipe. You'll want to sacrifice something to get your ass nice and clean, because a shit covered ass crack with develop dingleberries (do not make a cobbler with these) and a nice case of rosey red ass. Rosey red ass will take you out of the game as you limp along like a living Preparation H (not an approved vendor) commercial. Take some time to clean your fork, spoon, plate, canteen half, cup, and/or whatever mess furniture you may have. Do it now, before you forget and get the screaming Schwarz sprints (3S boogie) in the piney woods) and the projectiles from your tender anus becomes legendary. Find some scrap cloth and add in a couple more "wraps" for issue food you may receive, or more asswipe should you have some real problems. A period repop newspaper is a good addition down in the bottom (when soaked with grease, it is an excellent firestarter), as is a handful of pine splints about 1/4" to 3/8" in diameter. When the whole world is wet, and you and your pard have just enough grease soaked paper and pine kindling to get a fire started, you'll be as happy as a coon hound with three dicks.

42. Somewhere in that clump of darkness, have a vulcanized rubber pouch large enough for a toothbrush, some toothpowder, and a tin of your favorite Ibuprofen or aspirin. No shit. Come Day 2 on the march, after some dumbass as led you down 18.5 nautical miles of paths when he said you'd only go 8 miles as the crow flies, your ass will need a couple of pain killers. These will also become useful when your footsoles are blistered and raw, and when that lack of caffiene headache hits. Oh, yeah, you laugh now. Those with straight exhausts may want a couple of Immodiums in their pillbox.

43. Finding a small tin and filling it with salve or Vaseline is a good idea, even if you plan to bring some crotch powder, such as Gold Bond. A small tin about the size of 3-4 quarters stacked together is good enough when the crotch strawberry starts to happen after your crotch doesn't have a chance to dry out. Smotherman's Law = "Lube on your raw man parts is Good."

44. Bring some fresh matches and a match safe. Only about one of ten reenactors brings matches, and of those only about one of five has dry matches after a rain storm. They problem is not so much the water itself, but the humidity. Damp matches might as well be no matches, and you may find yourself the only man out of 100 who can start a fire. If you have skill with flint and steel, then bring it by all means. In July 1998, Frank Aufmuth was the only fellow who was able to start a fire in a certain battalion -- he had a flint and steel. You will be in a land of pine needles and squaw wood. This is the virtual gasoline of fire making. Know it. Use it.

68. Bring some food. The instructions have stated we won't have rations, and then they have reversed this and claimed we will be issued rations. Do any of us look like starving Ethiopians? NO. If we have extra food, we can chow down the first night. What to bring? Any hardtack you have leftover is good. Dried peaches are a real plus. Don't eat too many or you will shit yourself blind, and get off to a poor (albeit authentic start). Some lemon drops or horehound can pep you up once the blood sugar level goes through the basement, but most of all some boiled beef, bacon, spuds and spring onions are cheap and something you can deal with right there. In terms of condiments, some black pepper, curry, tumeric, dry mustard, extra salt, maybe some dried peppers are good choices. A piece of Mexican chocolate will make you a hero. Inkwell = good for salt. Get really hungry? Boil pine needles. It works, and is a period solution.

73. Bring a chip of soap.You can get Kirk's castile soap at any drugstore, and it lathers well. Yes, it is period as of 1839. Keep your cooking gear immaculate no matter how black your hands and face may be during any given campaign, and your bowels will appreciate it. You don’t need to carry a full bar of soap when a chip about the size of three stacked half dollars will do.

86. If you have a small skillet, bring it for the mess. Same goes for a hatchet, and a large boiler. Bring your gear, and sort this out in the parking lot. Organized groups have already figured this out months in advance. Anticipate your sorry asses will cooking on your lonesome otherwise, so be prepared. The reality is folks will have communal meal prep and consumption by day three. One tin, one cup, one fork, and six pairs of greasy hands.

87. Bring a few feet of stout twine - You'll need it when you need it. This is good period pocket trash, and a piece in hand is better than trying to cobble out the same effect with honeysuckle vine or greenbrier. We will probably not be constructing a bunch of shebangs, but who knows when it will come in handy to tie to a Junebug hind leg and make entertainment for the brigade.

88. Strip down your housewife. They are great to stop the breeze when your hiney is hanging out. A housewife need not be the size of a modern coffee can, but need only be a needle, thread, and a couple of buttons tucked away in a corner of your knapsack. That needle may be the only item available for moving the build-up in the cone of the musket at the end of a long, long, day, as the diameter of many reproduction picks are far too fat and otherwise too large for their intended purpose.

98. Pack and unpack all of your gear several times. Will we really need a shelter half? No. It will rain, we will get wet, and a shelter half is useful more as a sun shade than a rain stopper. Some idiot will show up with a great coat. Don't be that man. Don't.

99. A big period handkerchief (36 x 36 inches) made of linen or cotton may be good for covering your face and neck at night to ward off the damn bugs. It may also be good to soak to keep your neck and head cool. It may end up being another piece of ass wipe. Ass wipe = Good.

100. Bring an extra shirt. You will be foul and funky and soaked by the end of each day, but being able to slip on a dry (or at least less damp) shirt is a thing of great comfort. A federal issue shirt dries quickly, and does well in all weather conditions. Having a dry shirt to sleep in at night is also much warmer than the altnernative. Wet shirt + 3 a.m. chills = Sucks to be you.

101. We will be pushed. The march route is generally in a lazy horseshoe shape like a beer can run over by a team of mules, which will allow the rebs (who outnumber us about 13,000 to 1) to have excellent interior lines, thus shorter marches, but they will not have better looking concubines. Imagine lines of attack similar to spokes on a hub intersecting with the felloes. That will be us. Expect to get hit early in the morning, late in the evening, during the route of march, when your drawers are down to your ankles with Mr. Brown's best face to the enemy, and anticipate very little sleep. A soldier never stands when he can sit, never sits when he can flop on the ground, and sleeps whenever he possibly can. You may not understand now how you can sleep in a ditch in full marching order within 30 seconds of plopping your third point of contact in the depression, but you will at the end of four days.

Little hints are useful. Someone should really write these things down. :rolleyes:

It was quite a "school of the campaigner" for everyone.

Always is. One of the few good uses of the word "always." Taking a hint from Silas, perhaps the School of the Campaigner booklets could be updated and reprinted as a preservation project, or folks could attend campaign events.

Sharing notes about lessons learned is a good thing. This forum is a good place to do it. Nice thread, Doug.