Uniforms for the Continental Army

book

Reviewed by Steve Haller

By Philip Katcher

A well-known author of Revolutionary War literature on uniforms and organization, Philip Katcher has produced another useful reference book for the wargamer and history buff of this period.

Any definitive study of American uniforms would be a very frustrating and endless job. Those of us who are concerned with historical accuracy must realize that we can only portray American units in a typical uniform evident at a given point in time during the War. To this end, Uniforms is a solid contribution. Most previous literature has relied on deserter descriptions and a belief that the American Army was usually dressed in rags or hunting shirts. Mr. Kathcer, through skillful use of primary source material (e.g. records of clothing issues, reprinted quotations from contemporaries, etc.), offers a refreshing and more descriptive picture of the American soldier at this time. In addition, he uses 135 black and white illustrations comprising many surviving examples of uniforms, paintings, drawings, and sketches.

Uniforms is easy to follow and use. The early chapters cover the uniforms of the Continental Army, Continental Artillery, Continental Mounted Units, staff departments, and miscellaneous units. The author devotes an entire detailed chapter to each of the thirteen Colonies. The final chapter covers the Continental Navy. The glossary of 18th century clothing terms, extensive bibliography, and index are particularly helpful. Although the book is expensive, I recommend it to American Revolution enthusiasts. Available from George Shurnway Publ., R.D. 7, York PA 17402 (230 pp & 135 illus.) for $31.30 (postpaid).

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