Militia

5th Wisconsin Company B

This is an example of what early war uniforms looked like for a Milwaukee based militia unit. Grey was a traditional color for Antebellum units for both North and South. Going back to the War of 1812, the color of grey was used for the Volunteer regiments. Blue, was generally the color of the US regulars. In the opening days of the War Between the States, both sides summoned their militias to fight. Due to this, the massive variety of colors used caused confusion at the Battle of Bull Run.

Militia Con't

The man in green is a Zouave. They wore distinctive uniforms compared to the standard look of the army. Generally the uniforms were made up of a fez or turban. Some units wore brightly colored kepis. They wore very baggy pants that formed a ballon effect. A waistcoat was generally wore, though it was not uncommon for them to wear firemen's shirts. Another commonality was a short coat that was cut away from the top with only one button or clasp to hold shut. It was not uncommon for flower type designs to be found on the coat. Finally, a sash was woren around the waist.

Militia Con't

The Zouaves were based on the North African tribes that served with the French during the 1830s. The colorful look soon spread to the nation of France and soon young men dressed in these elite uniforms. The 1850s saw the Zoauve craze spread to the United States. The colorful uniforms and fancy drill, caught the fancy of many Victorian men. Col. Elmer Ellsworth took his Chicago Zouave Cadets on a tour of North America, and by showing off the drills to other militias, the craze continued. Soon both the militias of the North and South had units based on the Zouave look.

Militia Con't

This green Zouave uniform, belonged to the early days of the 69th New York around 1859. It did not last long, and was soon replaced with a more traditional red and blue style. For more info. about the Zouaves, be sure to visit The Zouave Database More info. about the role of the militia and their role to the civilian aspect to the American Civil War, coming soon.