1859 Militia Uniform

The lineage of the Chicago Light Artillery dates from 1847, when R. K. Swift organized the Company of Chicago Hussars & Light Artillery that he uniformed and equipped at his own expense. Reorganized in 1854, the company was also known as the Dearborn Light Artillery.  The artilleryman's uniform is in conformity to U.S. regulations of the day. Dark Blue frock coat and pants trimmed in red, along with a M 1851 Shako styled after the French Army headgear.