However, Kentucky State Guard (KSG) and the official Confederate uniform regulations, called for Cadet gray. The KSG wore cadet grey trimmed with black cuffs and collars. Before the war, the KSG was referred to as the National Blues, which further supports cadet gray since it has a bluish tint. This is the best information discovered to date.

As you start reenacting, you will be faced with an avalanche of uniforms supplied by multiple sulters. RESIST your temptation to buy items until you consult with a member of the unit. Many new to reenacting often fail to contact their units for proper guidance in selecting the correct uniform and equipment. Mistakes can be prevented by proper communications between the unit and the new member. Few, if any, new recruits have an understanding of the proper unit standards and their appearance. Too often choices are made on what looks good rather than what is accurate.

Unless you have researched Confederate uniforms, you probably have, as most of us did, a notion of have southern soldiers dressed. Forget them, you will be amazed how inaccurate Confederate uniforms are portrayed in modern patterns, movies and TV.

The 1st Kentucky receives two types of new members, a veteran reenactor or a new recruit. Veteran reenactors have their own uniforms and equipment, while the new reenactor often has very little if any. This guide will outline the expectations for both.

Above all, the 1st Kentucky has tried to keep costs down for reenactors. Reasonably priced uniforms, meeting our standards, are available from James Country Merchantile. If individuals wish to make or have their uniforms made for them, they may do so as long as the guidelines are observed.

Any questions concerning the correct uniforms and equipment, not covered in this guide, should be addressed to the unit for

Uniform Guidelines

Jackets

Cadet gray shell jackets, without belt loops or epilates are the only coats authorized. See figure 1 below. These jackets are commonly referred to as the Richmond Depot 3 style. The jacket should have black wool cuffs and collar.

Period Kentucky military buttons are the only ones authorized for use on the jackets. The button curves upward when viewed from the side and has a flat ring around it. This type button was referred to as the “muffin: style. The state seal of Kentucky is on the button. These buttons are made in both small and large sizes. Large buttons should be used for the front of the shell jacket and the small ones uses for the cuffs, if cuff buttons are used.

Hats and Caps

Perhaps the most popular among the rank and file was the slouch hat. With its’ broad brim, this offered protection from the sun and rain.

The kepi is the most commonly known hat worn during the war. However, the soldiers actually wore hats of several types and styles. The 1st Kentucky has no standard for hats, but the following rules should be observed.

No hat should have red or yellow trim.
Numbers or letters are not authorized for wear on the hat
Avoid using “CSA” buttons
Do not used hat blanks unless they are properly shaped as slouch hats. The forage cap was worn as well. It has a taller crown that bent forward.

Your current uniform and equipment will be acceptable for wear in the 1st Kentucky provided it meets the following requirements:

No red or yellow trim on hats or uniform
The uniform and leather goods must be of period pattern and design
The 1st Kentucky only asks that when you purchase your next uniform, it will be according to our uniform standards. Guidelines for New Recruits You may put any amount of text you like in this area above the photos.

Figure 1 Cadet Gray Uniform Image caption here Figure 1a Kentucky Military Button	Figure 2 Confederate Slouch Hat Figure 2a Kepi Figure 2b Forage Cap
.58 Cal Enfield Springfield Musket Figure 3 Cartridge Box Figure 3a Cartridge Box Sling Figure 3b Cap Boxes Figure 3c	Shoes (Brogans) Figure 4 CS Belt Buckle Figure 5 Canteens Figure 6 Haversacks Figure 7