Uniform

Standard Issue for the 18th

Many units in the Civil War, especially the side of the Union, didn't vary much, excluding Zouaves.

The regiments to come out of New York got a special, State of New York shell jacket. (pictured below) This had 8 State of New York buttons along the front of the dark blue shell jacket with sky blue trim. The jacket had two epiletts on the shoulders. Through the war, the 18th was cycled standard 4 button wool jackets and frock coats. At times, the 18th were so ill-equipted that some men just had their shirt on their backs.

The trousers were standard Kersey sky blue wool trousers.

Headwear consisted of a dark blue wool kepi or forage cap. (Pictured below) In some companies in the 18th, it's evident that some men wore fezzes. Check out the Original Photos.

The boots were 100% leather brogans with metal heel plates. After drilling and marching day after day, the men went through a few pairs in their time.

Wool Socks

Standard, 1860's shirt, they were issued three a year, so they got plenty from back home from their loved ones.

Gear

Standard black tarred haversack, worn on left hip.

Wool covered canteen, worn on left hip

Standard early issue cartridge box with "SNY" buckle on outside flap. "SNY" stands for "State of New York".

Belt with "SNY" belt buckle. Also on the belt is the standard issued cap box.

Standard early issue Knapsack, worn on back

The rifle they carried was the British Enfield Rifled or Enfield musket (Pictured below). They were much better than the more common early war smoothbore musket. It's also documented then men carried 1861 Springfield's as well.

State of New York shell jacket