The U.S. Army in the West, 1870-1880: Uniforms, Weapons, and Equipment

by McChristian, Douglas C.

• ISBN13: 9780806127057
• ISBN10: 0806127058
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2000-05-01
• Publisher: Univ of Oklahoma Pr

Summary

McChristian describes the development of army uniforms, equipment, and small arms during a pivotal decade of experimentation and against the backdrop of a highly influential military operation, the Indian campaigns in the West. Illustrated with more than two hundred photographs gathered from the public and private collections across the nation, the book will serve as a primary reference for collectors, curators, and students not only of militaria but also of the colorful frontier era.

Table of Contents

Illustrations	ix
Foreword	xv
John P. Langellier
Preface	xvii
Introduction	3	(4)
A Problem of Morale: The War Surplus, 1865--1871	7	(33)
Distinctive and Honorable Dress for the Soldier, 1872--1873	40	(38)
To Contrive Means for Carrying Clothing and Rations, 1870--1872	78	(27)
The Best Small Arms for the Use of the Army, 1870--1880	105	(39)
Until Those Now on Hand Are Exhausted: Clothing, 1874--1877	144	(34)
New Schemes for Inflicting Something Wonderful on the Soldier: Equipment, 1874	178	(44)
To the Great Relief and Satisfaction of the Army: Equipment and Clothing, 1878--1880	222	(29)
Epilogue	246	(5)
Appendix I Sample Cartridge Boxes of the St. Louis Board, 1870: A Photographic Essay	251	(10)
Dennis L. Gahagen
Appendix II Directions for Fitting Infantry Equipments, U.S. Army, 1872	261	(8)
Appendix III Instructions for Assembling and Wearing the Infantry Equipments, Blanket Bag Pattern, by Captain A. L. Varney, Ordnance Department	269	(2)
Notes	271	(26)
Bibliography	297	(8)
Index	305