79th New York (Highlanders)

[79thReproductions]

The first uniform in the Winter of 1859 is the uniform being worn by the guys in the pictures posted... Trews, Bonnets and the scottish/american militia coats. The kilts were an after though bought privatly by members in the sping of 1860.

The tartan was Cameron of Erracht Modern in a 9" "military" set. The kilts were machine sewn by dress makers in NY and pleated to the set, not the line. The tartan trousers were made like common victorian pants with mule ear pockets. The coats were made by Brooks Brothers. Its less of a Scottish uniform and more of an American costume....but thats why its so incredibly interesting!

I think its time to post original kilt and sporran pictures. Ill work on that ith:

[79thReproductions]

Heres the only known original 79th New York Kilt and Sporran. These pictures were taken and owned by Shane Miles.

KILT

• 9" Military Set
• Machine sewn
• Pleated to the set
• 2 cloth straps, one on each hip
• Victorian Suspender buckles
• Box pleated
• Lined with a light cotton twill
• Trimmed with black silk satin
• Worn with braces (Suspenders)
• Suspender button scars on kilt

SPORRAN

• Functioning pocket
• Burgandy kid leather facing
• Leather Cantle
• Fine example of 1850s leather work. (Stitches, quality, hair, ect)
• Worn with a leather belt, not a chain.

Notice how imperfect the pleating is. These were not made by professional kilt makers.


A small triangle is missing from the corner of the kilt.


I'll slowly started getting good scans or original 79th uniforms and soldier images posted.

[BoldHighlander]

Great thread Rachel!