New York "Washington Greys" Militia Belt Plate
Item #: AA3045
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This is a non excavated Civil War era clip corner brass belt plate of the Washington Greys, a New York State Militia unit that has been in existence since 4 April, 1786. It was formed in New York City, and remains active to this day. This style of belt plate was worn by members of the unit from the 1840's through 1860. On 27 July, 1847 this unit was designated as the 8th Regiment New York State Militia. The 8th served for three months in the early days of the war, being ordered to Washington D.C. on 20 April, 1861. Commanded by Colonel George Lyons, the 8th was part of the 1st Brigade, 2nd Division, Army of Northeastern Virginia. They participated in the Fist Battle of Bull Run, and were mustered out of service back in New York City on 2 August, 1861. On 29 May, 1862 the 8th again left New York City bound for war in the Eastern Campaign. Under the command of Colonel Joshua Varian, the 8th served another three months, primarily in the Yorktown, Virginia area. The unit was once again mustered out of service in New York City on 10 September, 1862. For a third, and final time, the 8th entered active service on 17 June, 1863. Colonel Varian was still the Regimental commander at that time. The unit served on active duty for only thirty days this time, and was mustered out of service on 23 July, 1863 in new York City. During the regiments seven months of active service it sustained relatively low casualties, 16 enlisted men killed in action or died of disease, 17 enlisted wounded in action, 4 officers and 9 enlisted missing in action. This belt plate, one representing Company F of the Washington Greys is in exceptional condition. The brass has taken on a deep chocolate patina that is undisturbed on either side of the plate. The letter of the unit retain the majority of the original gilt, while the company letter is mostly black. The plate measures 53.5mm by 71.5mm. The tongue and bar are both still present and securely soldered on. A small portion of an old tag is still on the back of the plate, but there is nothing visible on it. Here's an opportunity for you you buckle and plate collectors to pick up a pretty scarce plate, especially one that has not been dug. It used to be in the Blue Gray Museum, now it can be yours!
Shipping Weight:
1 lb
Item # AA3045
(Sold)
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