BELLETRE
French and Indian War French Marines
Uniforms
Evidence suggests that even in western outposts, such and those in Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin , that marines were amply supplied with clothing. The idea that supplies of such items were low or nonexistent is false. There is even evidence suggesting that marines sent to fur trade posts north of present day Minnesota and North Dakota dressed well. There is sufficient evidence supporting the idea that there wer enormous quantities of Europan cloth on hand. There was not a shortage of cloth, so most marines would have had complete uniforms.
It was the French principle of colonization and trade to wear European clothing in towns and wilderness. They were bringing "civilization" to the wilderness and the Indians. In the latter, the purpose was to impress the Indians with resplendent clothing. The wearing of Indian and Civilian attire was not useful in this regard. Foppsih attire of the late 18th century was not evident.
La Veste et La Culotte (Waistcoat and Breeches)
The waistcoat and breeches were made of wool with either cotton, muslin or linen used for lining. The vest buttoned to the waist and was open under the arms to allow for freedom of movement. The breeches had a french style from and extended to the top of the thigh.
La Chemise (Shirt)
The shirt was a common pull-on shirt. It was typically a white or natural color. It was found both with and without a collar. The materials were typically cotton, muslin or linen.
Justaucorps (Uniform Coat)
This was often called the great coat. It was a lightwweight wool overcoat. The cuffs and lining were made of the same blue wool as the veste and breeches. Regulations called for this garment to be "gris-Blanc" colored wool. We interpret this to mean "dirty white" or natural wool color. Very little information is available on this coat and much of it os conflicting. It is probable that the design of the coat varried from Battlion to Battalion.
Le Chapeau (Tricorn Hat)
This hat was made from black felt and folded up on three sides. On the outside of the brim there was a one pouce (one inch) gold band that wrapped around the edge. It often feature a black cockade on theleft side that was fastened with a button. In 1746 the King ordered the hats to be made from high quality lamb wool. The hat saw hard use on the frontier and was considered perishable.
Bonnet Du Police (Fatigue Cap)
This hat was designed for working. it was made from the same wool as the vest and breeches, often times from old uniforms or scraps. A fleur-de-lis or anchor was common on the front of the hat. Colors and style varried greatly. this hat was worn with the blues (vest and breeches) but not with the justaucorps.
Les Souliers (Shoes)
Marine shoes from this period had buckles and a round toe. They are very similar to the modern oxford shoe. Shoes could have either a single sole or a double sole. The double sole was for use in the winter.
Les Guetres (Gaiters)
The gaiters were made from cnavas or linen and covered the top of the shoe. Buttons were often black horn, black leather or pewter. A black leather strap was fastened just above the knee to help keep them tight. It is believed that the gaiter was not a regular part of he marine uniform until 1751.