Slide #11
Tintype
Petty Officer
United States Navy

Petty officers performed a variety of tasks aboard the vessels of the United States Navy during the Civil War. From managing cannons to acting as stewards, cooks, and carpenter's mates, their service was vital to keeping the ship operating in good order. This unidentified petty officer wears a uniform characteristic for sailors of the time.

• Blue wool loose jumper or frock with a large falling collar in the back. The embroidered foil anchor patch on his sleeve identifies his rank.
• Black silk neckerchief with a square knot.
• Petty Officer's hat with a waterproof rain cover made of rubberized canvas.
• He has a white handkerchief tucked into the slit pocket of his jumper.
• A small group of buttons in the form of a cross at his neck.