This the first of a number of Patriot units wearing "hunting shirts". I decided this unit would be a Rhode Island Sate Line Infantry regiment, chiefly because I had the flag and it went well with the white uniforms!
There was also the issue that I had no units from Rhode Island as yet; just like the Continental Congress, I have to try to be fair to all the colonies (and the Republic of Vermont).
As noted previously, at one time George Washington had recommended Hunting Shirts as the national uniform.
While more common in the Mid-Atlantic and especially Southern regions, they were became common as military dress in New England as well. These are Brigade Games figures.
The flag by Adolfo Ramos has 13 starts for the 13 Colonies, plus the Anchor emblem (dating back as far as 1664 as an emblem of the Colony) and motto, "Hope", both seen on the present day seal and flag of Rhode Island. It is believed that these were probably inspired by the biblical phrase "hope we have as an anchor of the soul", contained in Hebrews, Chapter 6, verses 18 and 19
Illustration of Riflemen in Hunting shirts; note the variety of hues.
Another illustration including some wearing Hunting shirts.
An interesting video about the history of the Hunting Shirt.
I like the white hunting jackets!
ReplyDeleteProbably the most common color, but we will be seeing them in many other colors as well!
DeleteVery nice Johnathon,, they would of stood out that is for certain
ReplyDeleteNice unit Peter - I considered white for my hunting shirt unit but went with the gaudier mauve/purple in the end!
ReplyDeleteNicely done
ReplyDelete