Civil War Union Infantry Officer’s Rare Sky-Blue Vest

Civil War Union Infantry Officer’s Rare Sky-Blue Vest – Over the many years we have been dealing in and collecting Civil War memorabilia and uniforms, this is only the second example of this type of vest that we have encountered; we have had many of the dark blue vests, but this is only the second sky-blue vest that we have obtained or, for that matter, even seen. This vest, which appears to have been almost completely handsewn, remains in excellent condition, exhibiting the most minor indications of wear. The collar and front panels of the vest are constructed of sky-blue, kersey weave wool; there are three pockets on the front of the vest, two on the left front panel and one on the right front panel; the pockets are lined in an off-white to dark cream colored, loose weave cotton. There are eight, eagle I, cuff size, closure buttons that slip into hand-whipped button holes; all of the buttons are “D. Evans” back-marked, with the exception of one which is back-marked “N. Dale” and another back- marked “Superior Quality”.  The interior of the vest is thinly padded and lined, in both chest areas, with a cream-colored cotton; the back interior panel, a single thickness thereby serving as the back interior and exterior panel, is constructed of a heavy, dark-blue colored, coarsely woven wool. The size adjusting band, on the back of the vest, is made of a loose weave cotton; the two-pronged, polished iron clasp is attached to one band; the other band is incomplete and does not reach across to connect with the clasp. There is some evidence of wear and minor staining on the back, dark blue panel. This vest is an extremely rare Civil War textile.