The Drummer, had to stand out in the battle and wears a suit similar to that of the other soldiers but in reverse colours. His coat is of thus of heavy white wool, lined in red wool, with red facings and trimmings. He wears the standard
issue madder red wool britches, fastened with white linen tape.
The Drummer wears a white linen shirt under his uniform, of which we can only see the collar or falling band.
On his head he wears a distinctive montero cap in the same red wool. These hats were very practical and proved popular in the Civil War, showing in several army uniform orders and contemporary illustrations. They are perhaps a forerunner to the present day balaclava. They could be folded up, as is shown in this photograph, or rolled down to protect the back of the head and neck in cold or inclement weather, forming a kind of hood.
On his legs he wears a pair of worsted stockings, and a secondary pair of un-dyed knitted woollen socks for extra warmth, worn loose as was the fashion of the time. His shoes are the common latchet shoes issued to most soldiers, and are tied with red linen ribbon, the regimental colour.
He carries all his food, possessions and other equipment in a snap-sack, a length of heavy linen, stitched in place to resemble a sausage shaped duffle-bag and attached to his back with a leather strap.
The Drummer is armed with only a simple, soldiers sword. He is, however, unprotected by either armour, buff coat or helmet. Although the articles of war stated that it was illegal to deliberately maim or kill a drummer, this did not prevent them becoming targets in reality. His bright clothes, conspicuous appearance and value to the regiment must have tempted many an enemy sniper. The loss of drummers could effectively hinder a regiments performance upon the field
© Copyright 1998-2007 Sir John Owens Regiment of Foote.
