Wisconsin Civil War Button

[Spencer Davis]

I was talking to one of our veterinarians the other day and he mentioned that he had an ancestor in the Civil War.  Today he brought by and showed me what he had.  What I have a question about is that the only button that he had has the Wisconsin State Seal  (or whatever it is called).  The back of the button says Superior Quality,  it measures 5/8" across.  But he served with the 43rd Wisconsin.  So I was wondering how he would have gotten this button.  He also has his G-Grandfather belt and buckle.  The buckle is square and has an eagle and all on it,  so where could he have gotton that from since he was a private?  thanks for any help.  By the way his name is:  Pvt. Cornelius McCarthy of Co. I of the 43rd Wis.  thanks again.

Spencer P. Davis

[Robert Braun]

I suspect that the button is a vest size, and probably originated there. Makers of offcier uniforms into late 1864 and early 1865 in Wisconsin apparently had access to rimmed state seal buttons, so your mention of them here in assoication with a late-war regiment does not surprise me.

In addition, the square eagle plate you describe was normally reserved for non-commissioned officers, according to Revised U. S. Army Regulations. However, I have seen and heard this plate associated with private soldiers after the war. There are a number of reasons for this. Among these are, the soldier was an acting NCO. He liked the buckle and aquired it at muster out. He may even have been issued it as a private, despite Regulations to the contrary.

Interesting post!  r.