Throughout the Civil War, Confederate quartermasters had to rely on contractor and homemade garments to make up the deficiencies in their ability to make or import uniforms. Known as the Commutation system, these garments accounted for the overwhelming majority of uniforms issued to Confederate soldiers at the start of the war, but non-depot made uniforms can be seen in Confederate ranks right up until the end of the war.
 
Our Commutation trousers are representative of the types of trousers being purchases by soldiers as well as state and national government authorities throughout the war. Unlike many depot-made trousers, these Commutation trousers are machine sewn, and feature curved mule-ear pockets and a slightly taller waist, reminiscent of popular civilian styles. These trousers can be made in tan or gray jean cloth, as well as royal blue wool kersey.
 
Note:
 
To ensure a proper fit, we request that you provide an actual measurement around your waist at the naval as the difference between modern pant sizes and actual waist measurements can be as much as 4-6 inches. If you do not have a tape measure, place see our FAQ page for details on how to get your measurements with the strip of cloth and yardstick method.
 
For sizes larger than 48, there is an additional $20 added to the item.