This is a Grand Army of the Republic veterans vest worn at GAR reunions. This organization, as well as the United Confederate Veterans, were the forerunners to the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars organizations. Veterans from both the GAR and UCV would attend the reunions and wear replica's of their uniforms, if not the original ones, in the encampments. This veterans vest is from the mid 1940's, made just prior to the last GAR Encampment held in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1949. The vest is in very good condition. It has a nine button front with three pockets. Two of the buttons are missing. The remaining seven Eagle General Service vest size buttons are securely attached. The buttons all have the same back mark of WATERBURY Co's INC Conn., the name the firm switched to in 1944. The button holes are machine sewn. The blue wool material has held up well, with no moth damage. The lining and back of the vest are polished cotton, with the adjustment straps and buckle still present. The top and right side on the back of the vest show some light staining.The stitching in the arms of both left and right sides of the vest has loose stitching. The photos show all concerned areas clearly. If you are a GAR collector this would make a very fine addition to your collection. This one could have been worn to the last GAR function ever held!

Item # AA1462