"Havelocks? Used by both sides in early war?" Topic

Was the Havelock used by Union troops or just CSA?

Used by both sides, but it fell out of favor fairly quickly.

I have worn havelocks at some early war reenactments. They went out of favor for good reason – they are uncomfortable and tend to get caught things.

They do make dandy coffee filters, as the troops found out.

And good gun rags!

Did their long use by the French Foreign Legion in North Africa result from the arid climate, while that of the American south is beastly humid?

Did their long use by the French Foreign Legion in North Africa result from the arid climate, while that of the American south is beastly humid?

Originated with the British army, and named after Henry Havelock who died during the Indian Mutiny.

Check out this link for more information:

link

I have always felt that the havelock was the second most under-appreciated garment of the Civil War, right after leggings/gaiters.

Havelocks certainly lost their popularity quickly. The latest ACW photograph I've seen of their use is from April, 1862 which shows a few Confederate prisoners taken at Yorktown. The latest documentary evidence I've seen is a letter from a Union soldier written in October of 1862 in which he thanks his wife for making one for him. He also asks her to make some for his pards as well.