U.S. Infantryman, 1812

This private soldier, wearing the blue uniform, is biting off a cartridge prior to loading his Springfield musket. For comfort, he has pushed his cartridge box, or cartouche, behind his back, while over his white cross belts can be seen the straps of his knapsack on his back. The belts of his canteen and cloth haversack, containing his rations, hang on his left hip. The regular infantry of both armies dressed for display rather than utility.