First Maryland, Circa 1780 |
An
Ensign in Proper Dress
Why is his uniform so nice? Officers in both the American and British armies tended to be well to do. They had their uniforms custom made and tried very hard to look like proper gentlemen. Their were many exceptions of course, but in general the officers of both armies were proud of their appearences and made real efforts to stay dressed well even while in the field. The Ensign was a low ranking officer whos duty was to carry the Regiment's flag into battle. This Ensign is in full dress with white gloves and walking stick so it is unlikely that battle is near! You will notice his ruffled shirt and white neck stock, the predesessor to the modern neck tie. He is wearing knee breeches (short pants that end at the knee) and has black garters to hold his knee high stockings up.
|
