Large Uniforms

[bAcK88]

This was likely discussed before on the old forum, but how common was it for soldiers to be issued a large uniform and not alter it? Thanks in advance.

[Radical Unionist]

Other than in the case of a fatigue blouse, I don't believe that soldiers would not eventually alter uniforms to fit. Even with the blouse they would have altered the sleeve length if too long.

Jeff Boorom

[ThehosGendar]

A larger than practical inseam usually resulted in the oft-seen rolled trousers:

http://www.3nj.org/rolledtrou.jpg

But you'll see in many images of larger sized frocks on smaller framed men that they've turned under the cuffs.

http://www.3nj.org/tuckedfrock.jpg

[markj]

Greetings,

If you'll send me your e-mail address, I'll send you a fascinating (and hilarious!) letter submitted by a vet discussing the very subject you mentioned. This item was published in the 10 August 1867 "United States Army and Navy Journal" but is very illustrative of the problems men faced with issue clothing during the war. Here's my e-mail:

markj@purdue.edu

Regards,

Mark Jaeger