6th and 11th West Virginia Infantry Authenticity Guidelines for "On Our Own Soil"

The 6th and 11th West Virginia were a part of 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, 8th Army Corps

Federal Fatigue Blouse (Sack Coat) -

Quality Reproduction Only
Lined or Unlined Fatigue Blouse

Infantry Trousers-

Sky Blue Trousers are the only acceptable trousers for this event
Quality Reproduction Only

Headgear-

Quality Black or dark brown civilian hats
Quality Forage Caps

Issue Shirt-

Quality Reproduction Only

Drawers-

Military or Civilian are appropriate

Rifle -

'53 Enfield Preferred
'61 Springfield Accepted

Bayonet -

Mandatory and properly fit to rifle

Cartridge Box -

U.S. with tins loaded with 40 rounds, Shoulder Belt optional

· Cap Pouch -

U.S. issue with at least 50 caps and one cone pick

Note: Each participant must bring a minimum of 120 rounds of ammunition to ensure full combat effectiveness in the field. Here’s how your ammo should be allocated:

40 rounds loaded in your cartridge box upon arrival.
20 rounds (2 arsenal packs) stored in your knapsack or bedroll.
An additional 6 arsenal packs will be provided in your company’s ammo box for later distribution during the event.

For accountability, please write your initials in pencil on each arsenal pack. This way, any unused ammo will be returned to you at the end of the event.

Remember, ammunition isn’t just a supply—it’s a vital part of your role on the field. Command depends on every soldier being fully equipped. Falling short of 120 rounds means you won’t be as effective, potentially forcing your unit to fall back during critical moments. Running out entirely renders you ineffective and may leave you with digging and/or filling in sinks the rest of the event. Be fully prepared—don’t be that guy!

Belt and buckle -

U.S. Issue

Musket Cleaning Implements and tools -

Blanket -

Quality Reproduction Federal Issue with "US" stitched as per originals

Canteen -

U.S. Issue with appropriate strap and covering. Cloth straps are preferred.

Haversack -

U.S. Issue, Tarred, For food only (3 day’s rations) Bring empty.

Knapsack-

Federal Issue

Ground Cloth -

U.S. Issue Rubber
U.S. Issue Painted

Shelter half -

U.S. Issue shelter half. It would be a good idea to match your buttons/buttonholes to another squad member prior to the event.

Spare shirt -

Period construction wool, cotton, linen, etc.
- Changing into a dry shirt prior to sleep at night will assist in keeping you warm and comfortable

Spare drawers -

Period construction, wool, cotton, etc.
- Changing into a clean, dry pair of drawers prior to sleep at night will assist in keeping you warm and comfortable

Spare socks -

3 pairs
Quality Reproductions only
Cotton and/or Wool

Shoes/boots -

Federal Issue or Infantry Boots
- Note: Shoes must be broke in but also not falling a part. This is not the event to break in new shoes for the first time. It is also not the event for old worn out shoes that are falling apart. It may look cool, but it's not practical and could ruin your effectiveness. If you have been putting off replacing your worn out shoes, now is your time to do so.
- Spare Shoe Laces are a must! Laces tend to dry-rot and break. This could ruin your week.

Eating Utensils-

Plate, Cup, and Fork/Spoon Set: No Stainless steel or enamelware

Sharp Pocket knife -

A versatile, period-appropriate tool indispensable for a variety of field tasks, from food preparation to small repairs.

Personal Hygiene Items -

Soap and Wash Rag: Essential for maintaining personal cleanliness in the field, keeping with historical practices.
Toilet Paper: Although modern, it is necessary to meet basic sanitary needs during the event. Sutler of Fort Scott offers Gayetty’s Medicated Paper which is perfect!

7th West Virginia Cavalry showing the typical uniforms, style, and grit as many West Virginia Federals were described.

Samuel F. Harsh of Barbour County (W. Va.) Home Guard