Description

Here is the much inquired about reintroduction of one of our popular sewn vulcanize raincoats. We haven’t made this coat for about ten years now and are excited to offer it once again – no reason for not making them – we just got busy! made in a documented period pattern this raincoat is made mid thigh length – the same length as our long sack coats. The pattern is also similar with a handsome curved front corner on the skirt. The coat is sewn construction of vulcanized cotton drill, just as period advertisements offered. Made of a tighter weave and lighter weight vulcanized cotton drill, also seen in period advertisements. After a lot of input concerning the weight of vulcanized material coats, whether sewn after material production as these are, or completely glued and vulcanized (both are well documented – sewn may actually have been more common outside of specific work related requirements), we endeavored to make this lighter, tighter weave cotton drill to reduce the weight so that it is not so oppressive when worn over a full suit of clothes. (identical to a vulcanized piece in our personal collection) The result is an effective water-resistant material with a sewn body construction which will shed rainfall adequately and serve it’s intended purpose. (this is not “seaworthy wet weather gear” intended to be worn on the foredeck of a schooner headed into the middle of a wicked nor’easter – it’s a reasonably weighted simple raincoat) Actually, more difficult to make as fine and lightweight as this when compared to some heavier fabrics – we are very excited to offer it with this run of our capes, caps and raincoats. Fold over collar which can be turned up against the weather. The buttons are covered in the same vulcanized cotton drill as seen on several documented original examples. Five button front closes the coat securely with button holes handsewn. Slit up rear seam to accommodate wearing mounted. Such raincoats and “capes with sleeves”, talmas, etc., came in a a great degree of different styles and patterns, quality and effectiveness. Such raincoats and “capes with sleeves”, talmas, etc., came in a a great degree of different styles and patterns, quality and effectiveness. The shorter vulcanized coat was quite popular with men when in the field as they provided protection that extended below the waist but still enabled excellent freedom of movement. They were considered especially versatile for men working regularly on horseback, wagons, trains. etc.. (as an excellent single source on the subject we are happy to recommend Mike Woshner’s “India-Rubber and Gutta-Percha in the Civil War Era) IMPORTANT NOTE ON SIZING: The size on these raincoats, like most of our clothing, is not based upon modern sizing models but actual measurements. They are listed by actual chest measurement of coat.  (size on actual coat will be indicated by number of stars a method seen on period clothing)  Raincoats were made very roomy and should be purchased in sizes above coat size, depending on desire to accommodate wearing them over simple clothing, uniform and accoutrement, etc., and still have room for unencumbered movement although not fitted this coat could be worn as a sack coat itself if desired.  This limited run comes in only two sizes – 44″ Chest (1 star), 48” Chest (2 stars). MEASURE with everything on you want it to cover IF YOU ARE UNSURE.   Straight side seam for plenty of room. The necks are proportionately oversized to the coat for the same reason. Be sure to buy a coat with a body big enough to do what you want to with it – sleeve length can then be shortened by purchaser if needed. Of the many makers advertising rubber goods and clothing, the Rubber Clothing Company had possibly the widest spread distribution with stores and factories from Chicago to Boston and predates the war so still appropriate for either side. D. B. Camp of Savannah was also one of the very few southern producers of rubber clothing and goods who operated before, during, and after the Civil War. (he actually had several patent disputes with established makers over the years.) We will mark your coat with either maker according to your request, or if no request made based on the shipping address of the purchaser. No returns for marks when no request is made.

Please be advised: These are simple rain coats using CW era technology – they are not made to be worn with accoutrements over them unless willing to risk greater wear and possible damage to the coated material. Rigorous service may result in damage to the rubberized surface. The material surface is subject to extreme temperatures as well as extreme use. This includes leaving for weeks at a time balled up in a tight package or cinched up under saddle blanket straps. Should be shaken out and stored without stress when not in use.