Federal infantry regiments did not all wear the same hat. Regulation called for the M1858 forage cap as the standard issue, but the M1858 Hardee dress hat was also issued and many regiments wore both — the Hardee for parades, the forage cap for daily wear. Civilian-style slouch hats sneaked into the ranks because they were lighter and provided better sun and rain protection. By 1864 a typical regiment in formation showed at least three different hat styles in the same company. Quartermasters tried to enforce uniformity; soldiers preferred comfort. The three figures in this set show that routine variety: forage caps with and without brass insignia and a Hardee hat between them.

This W. Britain three-figure set depicts Federal infantrymen at parade rest, the formal standing position prescribed by Hardee's drill manual: rifle held vertically across the body, left hand near the muzzle, right hand on the small of the stock. All three wear the regulation Federal infantry sack coat, light blue trousers, and full kit (cartridge box, cap pouch, bedroll). The three different hats — two forage caps and a Hardee hat — capture the routine mid-war variety. The set is a foundation piece for any Federal infantry diorama, especially regimental formation, dress parade, or guard mount scenes. Pair this set with Union Infantry Sergeant at Rest as the NCO of the formation; with Col. Henry A. Morrow as a regimental commander reviewing the line; or with Federal Company Officer with Pipe for a complete company-level formation scene.

Scale: 1/30 (60mm). Matte-painted metal. W. Britain model 31350. From the American Civil War range. Three foot figures, supplied painted and ready for display.