June 1859 Regular Cavalry

[michael.shafto]

Hello!

I am looking for some information on the 1859 weapons/equipment issue for the 2d US Cavalry.

What type of pistol would they have been issued?

What type of carbine would they have carried?

I am assuming the saber would have been the 1840 Wristbreaker.

The reason I ask is I am currently outlining a book in which the main character enlists in the regular army during the summer of '59. However, all of the resources I have only cover militia and 1861-65. Any help and suggestions as to garrison life at Fort Leavenworth, weapons, accoutriments, drill. Anything.

Thanks!

[GaWildcat]

Mike,

You may want to contact the US Cavalry Museum at Ft. Riley (http://www.uscavalry.org/) they should probably be able to give you hand, considering your present location and lack of ready resources. Stay Low Brother!

[Dave Myrick]

It appears that they were armed with M1840 Sabers, M1851 Navy Revolvers and Perry carbines. Additionally it seems they were using Ranger and texas saddles, rather than the Grimsley. Anything else?

Dave

[BobWerner]

Mr. Shafto:
It appears that the regiment was initially issued the following: three squadrons (six companies) received the Springfield Rifle Carbine; one squadron (two companies) received the Removeable Stock Carbine; one squadron (two companies) received the breech-loading Perry Carbine. The Colt Navy revolver and Dragoon saber were authorized for each man. In addition, four squadrons (eight companies) were furnished the Grimsley saddle and equipment and one squadron (two companies) were supplied with a modified Campbell saddle and equipment. Horse were distributed by color to the various companies. Company A received grays; Companies B & E received sorrels; Companies C,D,F and I received bays; Comanies G and H browns; and Company K roans. Changes were made during the regiment's pre-war service as the Secretary of War, one Jefferson Davis, took personal interest in this particular regiment. At some point (which I don't currently recall, nor do I have the information directly in front of me to confirm) the regiment also received a shipment of Sharps breech-loaders. You'd be best served to utilize the resources at the National Archives for more detailed information. They have quite a good deal of material on this particular regiment.
Also, I'd strongly suggest getting your hands on a copy of "Cry Comanche:the 2nd U.S. Cavalry in Texas, 1855 - 1861" by Colonel Harold B. Simpson, published by Hill Junior College Press, 1979. It's an extraordinary regiment that was renumbered as the 5th U.S. Cavalry in 1861 and is still with us serving proudly as part of the 1st Cavalry Division.
Hope this offers a little help.
Respectfully,