Scarce Civil War Emergency Issue Blanket U.S. Government-Issued – Circa 1861–1865

Scarce Civil War Emergency Issue Blanket U.S. Government-Issued – Circa 1861–1865 - Inventory Number: PER 458

A rare example of a Civil War emergency issue blanket, produced to meet the urgent demands of equipping rapidly expanding Union forces. Made from loosely woven wool or wool-blend fabric, these blankets mimicked of regulation-issue examples.

This particular blanket exhibits the telltale traits of emergency manufacture: simplified construction, minimal finishing, and visible irregularities in weave and texture—hallmarks of rushed wartime production by civilian contractors or hastily outfitted depots. These blankets were often issued in the early years of the war, especially during the winter of 1861–62, when demand outpaced supply.

Emergency blankets played a vital role in soldier life—offering warmth in freezing camps, on the march, or even as makeshift stretchers or shelter halves. Few survive today due to their heavy use and perishable nature.  An authentic and rarely encountered artifact representing the hardships and improvisations of war-time supply during the American Civil War.

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Inventory Number: PER 458