Union Uniforms

In the beginning of the war there was no official color for the North and South. Also at first it was hard for each side to buy as much material needed for uniforms. However, a distinguishable color was soon found for each side, but it was easier for the North because of all the industries and factories located in the Union. The army provided the uniforms for the soldiers consisting of a jacket, pants, a hat, and shoes. The Union uniforms were generally a dark or navy blue and made of wool. Sadly there was not a separate uniform during the summer so the soldiers were often hot. The uniform would also consist of a dark blue hat with a symbol on the top indicating what rank that soldier was. Also there was a symbol on each shoulder of the uniform also indicating their rank. Until 1862 soldiers wore pants the same shade as their coats, but was quickly changed to a much lighter blue. For shoes they were given brogans which laced up over their ankles.

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