Is the Revolutionary War British campaign coat and Light Infantry jacket the same? The verdict is still out in regards to this question. I’ve seen British re-enactors wearing what is being identified as a campaign coat. This version is basically a sleeved waistcoat, cut straight across over the hip bone, with a single row of buttons down the front. Some versions of this coat or jacket have cuffs and collars. Other versions have none. The sleeved waistcoat variety appears to be a common sight today. Now, I realize that I’m about to open a new can of worms on the next subject, but I feel for the most part, that it needs addressed. I’ve not seen any versions of a Campaign/Light Infantry coat converted from a cut down regimental coat. Now I’m not saying that these modified coats or jackets aren’t being worn today, it’s just that I’ve not seen any at events. What I’ve seen is the sleeved waistcoat variety. Yet it’s a known fact that other Campaign/Light Infantry coats existed. For example, during General Burgoyne’s campaign, in 1777 orders were issued for the regiments under his command to cut the tails short from their old regimental coats, and cut down their hats, in order to make his troops look like light infantry. I’ve also heard of these coats referred to as campaign coats. Many of these coats still maintained the folded and buttoned back lapels, cuffs, and collars. Yet, General Howe’s light infantry, according to contemporary accounts from eyewitnesses, in 1777 show the sleeved, single breasted waistcoat variety being worn. Therefore, would it be considered incorrect for a re-enactor to wear a campaign coat? Personally based on my own research, I find both versions acceptable at events. It would just depend on the regiment and campaign being represented. For example, did the King’s 8th Regiment of Foot wear the sleeved waistcoat style, or the cut down regimental style? I’m seeing the King’s 8th as wearing the former style, representing the North Western Campaign; but, would it be proper to wear a cut down regimental? Did the British troops during Bird’s Kentucky campaign in 1780 wear the sleeved waistcoat style? This creates much confusion. Being a member of the King’s 8th on Henry Bird’s 1780 Kentucky Campaign, I’ve been unable to determine which coat would be appropriate to wear in the field. It’s a definite possibility that being posted on the Western frontier, that the King’s 8th would not be receiving frequent supplies and uniforms from Canada. Therefore, it would appear feasible for his majesty’s troops to cut down and modify their old regimental coats from the previous year. I’ve not found any documentation to support this theory, but it would be a logical course of action for field operations in the wilderness of the old Northwest. These are just my personal thoughts on the matter. Opinions and mileage may vary.
Posted on: Sun, 04 Jan 2015 04:17:51 +0000
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