| This web site is
a non-commercial web site dedicated to the preservation
of the history of the 79th New York regiment, for the
benefit of historians, reenactors, geneologists, and our
posterity.
What can I find on the site?
Information about the 79th New York, New York
City, and the Civil War, in both textual and
photographic form; and hundreds of links to other
related sites.
What tartan did the 79th
use?
The 79th NY used Cameron
of Erracht modern tartan for both kilts and
trews. This tartan was invented in 1804 for use by
the British 79th Regiment of Foot, Cameron
Highlanders. It is the only family tartan worn by a
British Highland Regiment. It was designed by Colonel
Alan Cameron's mother, who was a daughter of Randal
MacDonnell of Keppoch. She combined the Cameron and
MacDonell of Keppoch tartans to create the new
design.
Did the 79th New York
wear kilts on campaign?
No. The 79th wore kilts in
parades both in New York City and Washington, DC. But
when the men marched off to Virginia for First Bull
Run, they laid aside the kilts and wore ordinary army
blue pants. As 79th living historians, we wear a
plain federal uniform in battle reenactments and wear
the highland uniform for living history
demonstrations, highland games, dress parades and
ceremonies.
Did the 79th have a
mascot?
Yes. The 79th kept an
alligator when they were in South Carolina. They also
had "Tip" the dog, named for a tuft of
colored fur at the end of his tail, and a dog named
"Major."
What insignia did the
79th wear?
Insignia worn by the 79th
included small brass "79"s and small brass
company letters, worn on front, not the top, of the
kepi. This followed the official regulations of the
NY State militia. Glengarries also had New York hat
badges and a thistle insignia. The 79th did not wear
the Ninth Corps badge. It was issued after the 79th
mustered out. They also did not wear the infantry
bugle insignia, nor did they wear Scottish clan
badges.
Did the 79th have a pipe
band?
No. When in Manhattan, the
NY Caledonian Society Pipe Band played for the 79th.
When the 79th left for war this band stayed behind.
The regimental field band was a proffesional brass
band that accompanied the unit until the government
canceled funding for field bands. A single civilian
piper joined the 79th for the Vicksburg campaign.
Why did the 79th mutiny?
There were several
contributing factors. First, the unit lost many
officers at Bull Run. Colonel Isaac Stevens was
appointed the regimental commander. The men resented
this, because they had always elected their officers
before. Second, the commanders had promised the 79th
a trip home to New York to recruit. This promise was
canceled. Third, the men had access to alcohol. These
factors led to the mutiny.
|
