Members of the Palmetto Battalion,

The Palmetto Battalion has long been advocating a standard uniform for its members. The uniform should be one that is cost effective and versatile and that meets the authentic requirements of actual South Carolina troops in the years of 1860 through 1865 in different theaters of war during the great unpleasantness. Our goal is to successfully provide the members of the Palmetto Battalion with functional attire to obtain a uniform appearance for the Fort Moultrie event in 2011 and to continue the provisions to its members for future events.

We feel that we have achieved that goal. The following is an overview that will explain the process of achievement.

Extensive research was conducted referencing records and articles that pertained to early war issues and purchases. We have also taken into account that the uniform would also have been available after the first firing from Ft. Moultrie.

• We have identified the correct material, pattern and color of a typical uniform for purchase.
• We have identified a vendor to produce the correct material at a cost effective price.
• We have negotiated with said vendor to produce the uniform for the individual Palmetto Battalion member at an effective price.

The vendor we have chosen is Mr. Ben Tart. He comes to us with an extensive background in producing material and garments for the reenacting community since 1986. His excellent workmanship speaks for itself. Mr. Tart will produce the amount of material needed to assemble the quantity of ordered uniforms. This custom material order is exclusively made for the Palmetto Battalion and he has aptly named it Palmetto Gray Cassimere. This material will be the Palmetto Battalion’s signature uniform material. Mr. Tart has agreed to the following materials and prices.

• Five yards of custom Palmetto Gray dyed cassimere material per uniform at $18.50 per yard for a total material cost of $93.00
• $134.00 per frock assembly to include 10 South Carolina State buttons
• $58.00 per trouser assembly
• $50.00 per kepi assembly

The total price for a custom fit, special order uniform with specifications that will allow you to stand in the ranks at most events which require strict uniform standards is $335.00. There is no other quality uniform available for that price. The total price shown here does not include S & H and sales tax. This will be added upon purchase. This price reflects standard sizes. Any other size that is not considered normal in the category may have a price increase in which the cost for that item should be discussed with Mr. Tart.

The Palmetto Battalion is taking deposits for the material. Each member who wishes to purchase a uniform should pay $93.00 to reserve a uniform. A deposit of $35.00 can be paid now but the remainder of $58.00 must be paid prior to March 31, 2010 for the order to be verified. This price pays for the material up front. Material costs should only be paid to the Battalion, and not Mr. Tart. There will be no other Palmetto Battalion sponsored uniform orders after that date. The material order will be placed on April 1, 2010 to Mr. Tart. Once the material is produced, Mr. Tart will construct the individual uniforms as they are received in order of the material deposit. The deposit should be paid to and sent to Claude Sinclair, 4573 Old Church Road, Lancaster, SC 29720.

Each individual will be required to be measured by Mr. Tart for an accurate fit. It is the responsibility of the individual to get measured and confirm the required payment and shipping information. Once the material is purchased by the individual from the Battalion, the uniform construction and purchase is solely between the individual Battalion member and Mr. Tart. Mr. Tart has agreed to be at several of the Palmetto Battalion events to meet you and get your measurements. Only those who have made a deposit or paid in full for the material will be measured. The Palmetto battalion will provide Mr. Tart with an ongoing list of members.

Winter Camp, Battle of Columbia Site – February 19, 2010
Battle of Aiken – February 22 & 21, 2010 (Not a Battalion affiliated event)
The Columns, Florence – March 6 & 7, 2010
Battle of Bentonville – March 20 & 21, 2010
Battle of Columbia – May 1 & 2, 2010

We strongly suggest that if you want to have a Palmetto Battalion uniform made that you contract Mr. Tart to make it. This assures the correct pattern will be used, a custom fit, the efficient use of material needed and a uniform appearance with others in the Battalion. In the event that you have someone else to construct a uniform, five and one-half yards of material would need to be purchased from Mr. Tart on behalf of the Palmetto Battalion.

By following the procedural listed below, we feel that this process will be easy and accurate.

1. Send a material deposit of $35.00 or pay the full material price of $93.00 to Claude Sinclair, 4573 Old Church Road, Lancaster, SC 29720.
2. Pay the remainder of $58.00 to Col. Sinclair by March 31, 2010.
3. Attend one of the events to get measured by Mr. Tart. Assure the correct shipping and handling information at this time.
4. You will be notified when the uniform is completed by Mr. Tart. At that time, payment is due prior to shipping. Mr. Tart accepts Mastercard, Visa, check, and cash.
5. Completed uniform will be shipped to your address upon payment.

In closing, please take advantage of this excellent opportunity to purchase and own a uniform that will portray the ever brave and dashing South Carolina soldier and be a proud member of the Palmetto Battalion. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact me at 843-384-5197 or email at chief.turner@blufftonfd.com.

1st Sgt. Barry Turner
Company B
Palmetto Battalion