The 79th did not have complete federal gear in 1861. They were issued militia jackets and sky blue infantry trousers for the Bull Run Campaign in mid may but still had the highland gear for ceremonial purposes and wore them often in July of 1861.

After that little outing, they realized the war would not be 90 days, and wore their highland uniforms again. This included Trews, 79th doublets, state militia jackets ect. From 1861 - 63 it was a mix between highland and federal uniforms. As you get further into the war, the less highland things there were and more federal.

And about the kilts, There is one documented case of a 79th officer wearing it to Bull Run but the regiment historian, W. Todds "THE SEVENTY NINTH HIGHLANDERS N.Y. VOLS. 1861-1864" page 22.

He took it off after a pig chasing incident and...him diving over a fence. Soldiers in other units saw this and commented harshly...."The next morning the captain appeared the next morning in ordinary uniform."

The 79th wore most anything. Its amazing to see these guys in a frock coat, trews and kepi. A Sack coat and Trews! I love seeing original images of them in miss matched uniforms like that because....it shows that they were not as federal as some would insist.

And...if anyone wants to know about the 79th, dont believe most of the things on the internet....its a double edge sword. You can either ask me, or my good friend and Mr. Beard at

Truth79NY@aol.com