Posted 9 years ago
Militarist
(296 items)
Here is one for our military photo collectors. I just found this in a local antique mall. It was on top of a pile of civilian photos that looked like some one recently broke up an old family group. The soldier is USA with his spiked helmet on the pedestal to his right. No insignia visible so I can not tell if he is regular army or national guard. Partially hanging from his belt on his left side is what looks like an empty bayonet scabbard.
Nice cabinet card!
I believe this uniform was instituted in the 1880s-- the dress helmet is a M1881.
Looks like it might be the actual bayonet at his side-- blow up doesn't enlarge to much.
Many states adopted similar uniforms in the 1880s- 90s. Some research may reveal what (if any) US Army units were in Oshkosh in the 1880s- 90s.
scott
He is Handsome!!!
Thanks Scott. The back of the card shows photography awards dated 1890. Oshkosh was home to two National Guard Companies. As I research this I found that his cuff flaps would make this a cavalry uniform and there for a Federal unit since the WNG had only one Cavalry unit based in Milwaukee.
The more that I look at the "empty scabbard " the more the opening looks to be round and most likely is a socket bayonet.
I don't see anything to suggest cavalry.
What makes you think he is cav?
scott
In this particular uniform all branches have the decorative cuffs, shoulder tabs and collar trim.
Based on light color, I think it is safe to rule out artillery (red).
scott
The ornamental cuff flaps. Every photo I've seen with these was labeled cavalry and none of the infantry had the flaps. But then he wouldn't have a bayonet would he?
You have seen poor labeling because of money. Cavalry guys bring more money, so everyone labels it that way w/o researching the specifics.
The cuff was part of the standard uniform and not branch specific, EXCEPT for the color of the trim.
scott
Oh oh, now I just saw an infantry uniform with the cuff flaps. Guess I should stick with medals.
Don't limit yourself-- the photos are great.
Just like all areas, don't always believe what you see online (esp. ebay sales).
scott
Thanks Scott, but I can't blame eBay for this one. I prematurely jumped to the wrong conclusion all by myself.