British Army sizing system

[bAcK88]

I recently purchased a Tait jacket and I have a basic understanding of the the size markings. My question is how is the American system measured, and where exactly would the markings be on the linen lining and what would be the proper measurements and style of the markings. Thanks in advance.

[Yellowhammer]

Your question has confused me. Are you asking about size markings in Tait jackets?

Since you asked about the linen lining, I assume you are talking about Tait markings. For that information, I refer you to Jensen:

"The linings are stamped with one of two types of size markings. One is a set of figures such as "5-9/ 38-40" or "5 Ft. 9/ 38-40" indicating a size for a man 5 feet 9 inches with a chest measurement of 38-40 inches. This is a distinctively British Army sizing system, which continued in use as late as World War I. Only one of the jackets has the other type of mark, in the American system, "SIZE NO. 2." This is the only known group of Confederate jackets to have markings of any kind."

If I answered the wrong question, sorry.

[bAcK88]

John,

Let me specify my question. I have already read Jensen's article several times now and I would like to know how the American system was measured and where are the size markings on the two original jackets.

Hopes this clears up the question better.

[Michael McComas]

Sir,

The British size markings are most often found on the upper right of the center-back piece. When you're wearing the jacket, they would be on your left shoulder blade, close to the spine. I have not seen the jacket with the American system markings, so I do not know if it was in addition to or instead of the British markings. This photo shows the markings in the Lt. Michael Glennan jacket. Image courtesy of the Museum of the Confederacy.



The information you seek about uniform issue sizes can be found in the Quartermaster manual. Mr. Daley has posted the relevant excerpt from the Federal QM Manual on his research page at http://www.cjdaley.com/issuesizes.htm One would have to check the Confederate QM Manual to see if the size specifications are the same.