Description

This extremely rare image depicts a soldier in the Second Wisconsin Infantry dressed in the state issued “Bull Run” uniform.  This is the uniform the 2d Wisconsin Regiment wore at the battle of First Bull Run, where they took friendly fire after being mistaken for Confederate soldiers.  The frock coat was made of gray wool broadcloth with a single-breasted nine button front.  Black ribbon chevrons were set at the cuffs to designate the wearer’s rank.  The chevrons can clearly be seen in the image.  The distinctive shako-styled hat was evidently not popular, and could be converted into a forage cap by removing the stiffening.  Frederick Lythson is pictured wearing this uniform in Gaff’s “If this is War”.

The Second Wisconsin was mustered into Federal service on June 11, 1861.  After First Bull Run, in October 1861, the Second Wisconsin was included with the Sixth and Seventh Wisconsin Regiments and the Nineteenth Indiana Regiment to form what would  soon be known as the “Iron Brigade.”  The unit may be most famous for the bloody fight on McPherson’s ridge at Gettysburg on July 1, 1863.

The image offered here is exceptional in a number of ways.  It is extremely rare from a uniform standpoint, as very few images of Second Wisconsin soldiers wearing this uniform are known.  It has superb content other than the uniform, as the soldier is shouldering a bayonetted musket (likely a US Model 1842), his belt with US belt plate includes a cap box, and across his shoulder is a finely displayed Enfield cartridge box.  Additionally, the image is crystal clear and in fine condition, with the buttons and belt plate lightly gilded and the soldier’s cheeks tinted.  It is housed in a nice thermoplastic case with a couple of small stress cracks.  If you are a collector of rare or unusual uniform images, this is a must for your collection.  It is far more rare than an equivalent unidentified Confederate image.