"Uniforms of Georgetown and Washington Light Artillery" Topic

I am looking for any uniform information on the Georgetown Light Artillery (horse artillery) and the Washington Irish Light Artillery, which were part of the Columbian Brigade of the District of Columbia Division during the battle of Bladensburg.

So far my research has produce scant bits of information. For example:
In Chartrand's excellent A Most Warlike Appearance, D.C., Light Artillery units are not mentioned. Further; "The dress of the artillery and cavalry is not given but the officers of these units were ‘to be armed according to the law'.

However, it is described by Todd as; "This artillery unit was equipped as flying artillery or horse artillery…all gunners were mounted." The Militia and Volunteers of the District of Columbia 1783-1820 by Frederick P. Todd ; p406. "…well-heeled, blue uniformed, volunteers…" Through the Perilous Fight, p.82.

Interestingly, the Georgetown Light Artillery was commanded by Major George Peter. Captain Peter had commanded Dearborn's experimental horse artillery company in 1808-09, but resigned after Eustis (secretary of war) sold its horses in 1809 "as an unnecessary waste of public funds.". Amateurs to Arms, Elting p215. Also, in Military Uniforms in America: The Years of growth 1796-1851 pg 2 and 3. This unit was trained and operated as horse artillery (See ref re Todd note above.
So, I would very grateful if anyone could provide further detail.

Failing any further new research, I intend to use Knuckleduster's Light artillery crews and paint them with blue coats and perhaps with red collar and cuffs. I am grossly speculating that Major Peter would have equipped his light artillerymen as their regular counterparts. What do you think?

American militia volunteer companies were a law unto themselves in matters of uniform and equipment, frequently operating as gentlemen's clubs of a locality's social elite. Since they outfitted themselves at their own expense, a uniform had to be approved by the majority of the members, subject to a waiver by the state governor of whatever uniform regulations might exist for the common militia. Obviously someone had to propose a uniform design. If George Peter was the driving force in organizing the Georgetown Light Artillery, then it might be a reasonable guess that, as a former regular officer, he would have come up with a uniform resembling the Regular Army's Regiment of Light Artillery (which, by the way, did not include red collar and cuffs). However, it remains just a guess. I have been researching the War of 1812 for about forty years, and I have never come across any description of the uniform of either of the units you inquired about.

ID,

Have you contacted the Company of Military Historians for information on the units and their uniforms?

They might be able to help you.

attilathepun47; thanks for your response. Yes I knew that LA had solid blue tunic no red cuffs or collar but I thought this might differentiate them from their regular counterparts…but perhaps it is not not the way to go. It is encouraging to know that there are others out there like your self, with a deep interest in the War of 1812, particularly the uniforms and equipment and the people who used them.

Kevin; I did think of them but I believe the last time I tried that, I was advised that you had to be a member. Membership was quite expensive about a year ago. Nonetheless, it is worth another try. Thanks.