Civil War Union Suspenders BLUE CREAM Sewn on Period Hand Crank Sewing Machine 

Up for auction is one pair of Civil War suspenders, or rather, braces as they were called during the War. Some people call these "Poor Boy" suspenders however, that appears to be a "reenactorism", still, it is a term that is used by some reenactors so I will use it in my listing. I have added photo documentation of the styling of my braces. Note that period trousers had one button on each side but most modern reproductions have two buttons per side. My braces are an adaption of this original type of suspender with a "Y" end peice made of fabric.

Homemade by me, using an authentic period hand cranked sewing machine. This is a new option that I am offering to the discriminating living historian. The machine (in 4th photo) is a Bradbury New Family which is a copy of the Singer New Family introducted in 1863 and uses the transverse shuttle system. The buttonholes are handsewn of course. This style is perfect for the Campaigner Progressive Living Historian that comes from a home that was fortunate enough to have a sewing machine. Many homes in the North probably had a sewing machine. Because the machine is so much faster, I can offer these braces at slightly lower cost than my totally handsewn version.

The facing material is a 100% Homespun Cotton Bue/Cream Plaid fabric, I fold the sides into each other and the two strips are then sewn together for good strength, approximately 1 1/2" wide and the button holes are all hand stitched. The backing is an off white cotton ticking material for good strength. To check for fitment, you need to put on the trousers you wear for events (remember trousers in CivWar ride higher than modern pants). Measure from rear button, over the opposite shoulder (I recommend crossing the braces in the back), down to your front buttons. This will give you the approximate length you need. The 4 different lengths are acheived by moving to a different button hole on the braces. Most fellers in the 6' tall, 180-220 lb range will use approximately 38" length, depending on trouser rise. If you need shorter, I can add holes or for longer, I can provide extensions to button on the back (these are $2 extra), please indicate at auction end.

Blue/Cream 100% Cotton Homespun w/White cotton thread handsewing adjustable from - 41", 39.5", 38", 36.5"  

NOTE: AUCTION IS FOR THE SUSPENDERS ONLY. THE PICTURED SEWING MACHINE IS NOT FOR SALE AND IS SHOWN SO YOU CAN SEE THE MACHINE ACTUALLY USED TO MAKE THESE BRACES.

Great for either Union or Confederate campaigner, reenactor, living historian looking for something different. A pair of handmade braces sent from home!!! Usable for Civil War civilian as well as Black Powder Shooters, Mountain Man, Rendezvous, Cowboy Action Shooter, SASS as well.

International buyers, please wait to send payment until I send you an invoice with correct shipping costs. I cannot control delivery times and/or customs issues, therefore, I make no promises in regards to delivery times.

Here are some comments from satisfied customers:

"Great item. Super fast service. Recommended"

"Awsome suspenders. Thanks for all your help!!!"

"Great item, well made and outstanding service. Thanks! A+A+A+A+"

"Nice braces good transaction AAA +++Thanks"

"Very nicely made, Excellent suspenders, extreemly fast shipping, the best!"