Second Florida, Company E
Uniform Guidelines
Although unit members are able to exercise independent judgment when creating their period impression and compiling their personal kit (military uniform, equipment, and accoutrements), the following guidelines are recommended to ensure standardization of appearance and historical authenticity as Civil War re-enactors while aspiring to continually improve our impressions for the general public. Before purchasing any uniform or equipment, new recruits "are encouraged to consult with veteran members. All members are given one year to furnish their own uniforms, clothing, arms, and equipment at their own expense. During that time, they may borrow from the company supply on a first come -- first serve basis" (from Uniforms/Clothing [&] Equipment Regulations in [Unit] Bylaws).
CS Jackets:
-Richmond Depot (preferred) with 9 front buttons or Columbus Depot Shell Jacket (waist length)
-preferably jean cloth material (cooler than wool and 100% wool was too expensive to acquire but cotton was plentiful so most southern states utilized mixture of cotton and wool called jean cloth)
-Any shade of gray is acceptable and for enhanced historical accuracy, utilize natural dyed material such as logwood or sumac (which will fade over time to light green or tan "butternut" in color).
-Hand sewn button holes and outer stitching are ideal.
-Infantry trim is light blue but never buy red (artillery) or yellow (cavalry) striped or trimmed items.
-"Footwear needs to be period correct and not modern" (see Uniform/Clothing Regulations in Bylaws).
-early CW battle shirts (thick one-piece shirt pulled over the head) or civilian sack coat (any color or material is acceptable) in lieu of shell jacket
-Block "I" buttons, Florida state seal or 6-pointed star (Cherokee Rose) brass buttons available
CS Trousers & Headgear:
-Richmond Depot enlisted with "mule ear" or front button closure side pockets and button up fly (similar color/material requirements as above but don't have to match since not always issued simultaneously.)
-Union sky blue trousers are acceptable for budget-minded and dual use for US and CS impression.
-Period pants were worn high at navel level not modern waistline across hips so measure accordingly.
-Period caps, slouch hats but no "cowboy/western or "hillbilly" hats/caps are acceptable" (Bylaws).
Final Rule of Thumb: Military issued uniforms typically didn't fit correctly regarding size so often may have been too big or small, too short or too long. Also CS soldiers, especially early and late CW, were observed to have many variations in clothing so uniformity in apparel was the exception allowing for much individuality among the troops despite the above recommended guidelines.