Reproduction Civil War uniforms and equipment are expensive and the number of merchants or 'sutlers' and the variety of their wares can be bewildering. The following information is provided for our recruits and other interested historians.

To begin living history with Company A, 79th NY, you do not need to purchase anything. The company has some uniforms and accouterments for loan to outfit new recruits. It is recommended that you wait to purchase anything until you've asked the 'old salts' all the questions in your head and done your own research.

Fatigue Uniform

The official uniform of Company A 79th NY is the Infantry Private's fatigue uniform of the United States Army circa 1861, as issued. All members of Co A 79th NY will have this uniform, as a minimum, to participate in events sponsored by Co A 79th NY or in which Co A 79th NY is participating as a unit. You can view a listing of the fatigue uniform's parts here.

The official uniform is the only uniform authorized to be worn to events sponsored by Company A 79th NY or events in which Company A 79th NY is participating. In some instances, for educational purposes, members may be asked to wear uniforms in their possession, other than those specified above.

Accouterments

Accouterments are the equipment or gear a Soldier needs to fight, care for himself and make camp. The approved accouterments for Company A 79th NY are to be of patterns issued to troops by the United States Army circa 1861. You can view a listing of a Soldier's Accouterments here.

Weapons

We use firing reproduction weapons in our living history portrayal. During the first two years of the Civil War, the 79th NY was armed with .69 cal smoothbore muskets. Later the entire regiment was rearmed with .58 cal rifled muskets. You can learn more about the varieties of weapons used in the civil war and what Co A, 79th NY uses here.

Insignia

Insignia, if worn, is to be that prescribed by Army Regulation. All members of Company A 79th NY will hold the rank of Private, unless elected to a position of rank by the membership. Insignia of rank are to be worn only by those members elected to a position of rank. Members elected to positions of rank in other organizations and not holding a similar position in Company A 79th NY may only wear the rank insignia while participating in the other organizations events.

Additional Uniform Items

Company A, 79th NY does not require its members to have dress uniforms or other items. However many members choose to improve their impression and comfort by obtaining other uniform items such as those listed here.