While we may not count stitches our goal is to present an authentic portrait of the 30th OVI Co. B. Uniforms and equipment should appear to be of the correct cut, color, style, and materials used during the American Civil War. The final authority for the acceptability of any item will be the Chairman of the unit.

The 30th OVI was an early war unit, mustering into service in August 1861. Early state issued uniforms included roundabout style or federal shell jackets, red flannel shirts, OVM belt buckles, and black broad brimmed hats referred to as Hardee hats. By mid-war early uniforms were worn out and federally issued uniforms were issued including sack coats and soldiers often switched to the less heavy and cumbersome forage caps.

Military Impression Uniform List

  • 4 Button U.S Infantry wool sack coat (fatigue blouse). Federal shell jackets (roundabout) are appropriate for early war events
  • White army issued shirt, civilian-made shirts in period correct patterns, or red flannel shirt for early war events.
  • Sky blue wool trousers with suspenders (braces) Trousers should sit at natural waist
  • Forage cap (type I and II). Hardee hats or slouch hats are appropriate for early war events
  • Cotton or wool socks
  • Leather brogans
  • Waist belt with OVM, OVI, or US buckle
  • Federal issue smooth side canteen
  • Black tarred haversack
  • Manual of Arms (Primarily Casey’s as well as Hardee’s and Scott’s)

Musket and Leather Accoutrements

  • .58 caliber Enfield, 1861 Springfield rifled musket, or 1842 smoothbore or rifled musket
  • Bayonet and scabbard
  • Cartridge box with US plate and shoulder strap with U.S. eagle breastplate
  • Cap pouch

Other Items (not all are needed)

  • Navy blue vest
  • Knapsack (double bag, no frame)
  • U.S. Issue gray wool blanket
  • Tin cup (not stainless steel)
  • Tin plate, knife, fork, and spoon
  • Shelter halves
  • Rubberized ground cloth
  • Rubberized poncho
  • Mucket (not stainless steel)
  • Folding lantern
  • Housewife (sewing kit)
  • A-tent (also called wedge tent or shelter tent) Standard in early war

A Word About Conduct and Safety

All members should be mindful of how we represent the men and women of the time period we are portraying. Respectful conduct with other reenacting units and the public is always expected.

Safety is of the utmost importance in everything we do during these events. Even without live ammunition the muskets and sidearms we use can still be dangerous. Safe handling and maintenance of muskets and sidearms is the responsibility of each member. Inspection by the ranking NCO will be performed before each battle scenario. Any questions regarding proper safe handling should be directed to unit leadership. 

What's a Company? Military Organization and Positions

Guidelines for Proper Handling of Black Powder 

Casey's Drill Manual for the Union Army - Tutorial