"On June 3rd occurred an event of great importance in the history of our regiment. That day we received the new zouave uniforms, which we had been expecting for some time. The One Hundred and Fortieth New York were likewise accorded the honor of wearing this style of uniform, which had been so notably distinguished by the famous Duryea Zouaves, a large number of whom were now in our regiment. The new uniform greatly pleased us all, not only because of its greater beauty but also because of its advantages in comfort and utility over the regulation infantry uniform. The zouave uniform consisted of large baggy trousers, blue in color, which were fastened at the knees; a fez cap, bright red in color, with red tassel; a long white turban which was wound around the hat, but worn only for dress parade; a red sash about ten feet long which was wound about the body and afforded great comfort and warmth; and white cloth leggins extending almost to the knees. The first dress parade succeeding the receipt of our new uniforms was a most brilliant affair. We had no end of fun in dressing ourselves preparatory to it, for there were many things about our new costumes which some of us did not understand. It required laborious work and considerable time to adjust them properly. The turbans, especially, caused us no end of trouble, until we found that the best way to wind them about our heads was to have a comrade circle round and round with the sash in his hands until it was properly draped about the fez cap. Finally, after much perspiring and considerable profanity, the entire regiment was arrayed and swung into line. With our Turkish trousers and our turbans, we looked not unlike the soldiers of Mahomet."
Taken from Page 92, "Campaigns of the 146th Regiment, New York State Volunteers", by Mary G.G. Brainard
UNIFORM GUIDELINES OF COMPANY A
These are Guidelines for the New Recruit to better help him see what equipment he will be looking for and to help guide him in purchaseing the proper equipment. This will also help ensure that the new members do not end up purchasing lesser quality equipment that will fall apart after only a limited ammount of use. This is just an outline of how we would like the members to appear, but it is understood that not everyone will be able to equip themselves as such.
1. Regulation Uniform [October 1862 to May 1863]
A. Jacket
I. New York State Issue Jacket [Preferred]
II. Federal Sack Coat [Suitable]
III. Federal Frock Coat [Suitable]
B. Sky Blue Trousers
C. Vest
D. Headgear
I. Federal Kepi
II. Forage Cap
III. Military or Civilian Felt Hat
2. Zouave Uniform [June 1863 to July 1865]
A. Zouave Jacket
B. Chasseur Trousers
C. Sash [Red with Yellow Wool Tape]
D. Gaiters / Leggings
E. Jambaries
F. Fez [A Red wool fez with a Yellow Tassel with an overall length of 17']
G. Turban [For dress occasions Only]
H. Insignia [5th Army Corps Badge, these should only be used in Virginia]
3. Underclothing
A. Shirt
B. Period Underwear [Opitional]
C. Socks
D. Brogans
4. Equipment
A. Haversack
B. Model 1858 Smoothside Canteen
C. Model 1855 Cartridge Box
D. Cap Pouch [A standard Federal Shield Pattern]
E. Waistbelt's & Buckles
I. Regulation "U.S." Belt Buckle
II. 1845 to 1862 "S.N.Y." Belt Buckle
F. Muskets & Bayonets
I. 1861 Springfield Rifle Musket
II. 1853 Enfield Rifle Musket [Suitable]
III. Springfield Bayonet Scabbard
5. Other Equipment
A. Model 1855 Double Bag Knapsack
B. U.S. Army Issue Blanket
C. Rubberized Poncho or Gum Blanket
D. Shelter Half
E. Sky Blue Greatcoat
F. Mess Kit [Taken from Par. No. 122, Art. XIII, U.S. Army Reg. 1861, rev. 1863]
I. Tin Cup or Muckett
II. Tin Plate
III. Knife, Fork & Spoon
