Butlers Rangers Uniform & Equipment List


·The only known description of a uniform issued to Butlers Rangers was published by Ernest Cruikshank in his book on the Corps. He states that in December 1778 the Rangers received coats of  "dark green cloth, trimmed with scarlet." Also issued to them, were "low, flat caps having a brass plate in front bearing the monogram GR encircled by the words Butlers Rangers."  Present research indicates that only green coast faced red were in use and in storage with the Northern Department of the British Provincial Army prior to 1779.

·When John Butler was given permission to raise a Corps of rangers, he was also instructed to obey any issued orders from Lt, Gen Burgoyne. Those orders directed all unit commanders to cut down their hats to caps and shorten their coats to jackets for service in the woods. John Butler (no doubt) followed these orders. Of note, Cuthbertson's manual of 1778 lists the same recommendations for lights troops. This is the reason for our style of uniform.

·Caps: Cut down from a hat blank into the shape of a jockey (or baseball) cap with the brim held up by a hook and eye, loop and button or even stitched in place. It is edged with wool, mohair or linen tape.

·Jackets are cut short of Light Infantry style. Dark green coat body with madder red cuffs, collar and lapels. Button are of white metal (pewter) with words BUTLERS RANGERS on them.

·Waistcoats (vest) and breeches were made of off white wool. Natural linen (tan color) was also used, mainly for breeches and gaitered trousers or overalls. Old coats were made into green waistcoats.

·All Loyalist Corps were to be issued a standard of Arms which composed of a British Pattern musket, cartridge box, bayonet and scabbard, plus belting. All belting should be black with exception of haversacks, canteen cords and hunting bags.

·Leggings were made of wool, leather and linen. Brown wool was issued to loyalist troops to make leggings. Of note: wool dries quickest when wet, provides warmth in cold weather and is quietest of all in the woods.



BUTLER'S RANGERS UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT


·British Pattern Musket with proper falshguard, hammer cap and cleaning           worm

·Bayonet with scabbard, belting and brass badge

·Cartridge pouch with brass badge

·Black ranger cap

·Green wool regimental coat with red facings

·Waistcoat (vest)

·Black neckerchief

·Shirt

·Breeches

·Leggings

·Garters

·Stockings

·Shoes

·Canteen

·Haversack

·Wooden bowl (or tin plate)

·Tin cup

·Spoon

·Folding knife


.