Here we have three different ranks in the Union Army side by side. The center, the alleged spy, is a Captain. he wears his coat as a drape because the was caught without it nearby. Out of respect for his rank, one of his men grabbed his coat from his quarters to drape around the captain’s shoulders. The coat is a long coat, made from the same indigo dyed wool as the Lieutenant and Privates surrounding him. His pants are the same sky blue as the other men as well. They are tucked into his high boots, made of a softer leather than the brogans of the Privates.
The lieutenant is wearing a long coat as well, but is also allowed to sport a cravat, or necktie considered fashionable by 1860 standards. He is also able to wear a hat that is styled, rather than utilitarian.
The Privates are wearing Kepis, like the flag bearer, a wool sack coat, sky blue pants with a button fly that are held up by plain cotton suspenders. their uniform has a utility belt that hold caps, powder, and other implements needing quick access during battle. Their haversacks and canteens are added on to the uniform as everything must be portable.
J. Brakefield Fine Art 