Union 79th New York Infantry

By Crusader1307

The 79th New York Infantry started out as a Volunteer State Militia, funded by several wealthy Bankers from New York City, where the United was raised in 1859. The Regiment was composed of Scottish-born Men, who patterned their uniforms after Scotland's Highland Regiments. They were nicknamed "Cameron's Highlanders".

More of a Fraternal Society, The 79th SNYM marched in parades and served in various ceremonial roles for The City. At the start of The American Civil War, the Unit was Federalized and became The 79th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment. They were noted for their colorful uniforms of Scottish Tartan Plaid. The Regiment wore these uniforms when they were sent to participate in the first engagement of The War, The Battle of Bull Run (1861). The Regiment distinguished itself by 3 charges against enemy positions, while the rest of The Army was falling apart.

With the loss of Bull Run, The Union Army underwent a period of reorganization, which had The 79th assigned to "Engineer" duty. Although the "fighting" Men were not pleased, they helped build 8 Forts and dug miles of trench and breastwork around Washington DC. This would lead to much of the United turning to Mutiny and refusing to work further. Much of The Regiment was disbanded, but later re-constituted. The Regiment was deployed in almost all Theaters of conflict during The War, which earned it the title of "The Most Traveled Regiment of The War".

Serving in 30 battles and engagements, The 79th was one of the only Units which kept it's pre-War identify by wearing trousers that retained their trademark Tartan Plaid pattern (although newer Recruits preferred the standard issue Blue). The Regiment would survive The War, returning to it's status as a State Militia, until the System was abolished in New York State in 1876.