Militia

Independent militia companies rose in the absence of state militia service. The companies generally had fine uniforms and aspired to precision drilling that indicated a greater interest in martial display than martial prowess. In 1860 the Chicago Zouaves, numbering about 100 men, declared themselves the best-organized and drilled military company in the country and made a tour of the eastern United States to show off their abilities. Colonel Elmer E. Ellsworth, a protégé of Abraham Lincoln, led the Chicago Zouaves. The touring company consisted of about 50 men and officers and an 18-piece band. According to the New York Times, “The full Zouave uniform consists of loose scarlet pants, with a gold cord over a blue stripe, high gaiters and leggings; blue vest with orange braid, and a peculiar pattern of moiré, antique facing; a jacket of blue with red and orange trimmings, and bell buttons, and a jaunty little red cap with black band and orange trimmings.” The Chicago Zouaves were met with great acclaim. During July and August 1860, with the presidential election campaign in full swing, they visited twenty cities and towns, including New York City, Boston, West Point, and Washington City, where they performed for President Buchanan.