Authentic Civil War Military Tailcoat Jacket | Rowland Uniforms | Vintage Hussar Wool Coat
Wear History. Command the Room.
Imagine slipping into a jacket that once stood at attention on a parade ground, its gold braid catching the light, its brass buttons polished to a mirror shine. This is that jacket. A genuine Civil War-era military tailcoat by Rowland Uniforms — William C. Rowland, Philadelphia, PA, one of America's most storied uniform makers. This is not a reproduction. This is the real thing.
~ About the Brand: Rowland Uniforms
Founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, William C. Rowland was among the most respected uniform manufacturers in American history. Rowland supplied military dress uniforms to academies, ceremonial corps, and military institutions throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. A Rowland piece is a collector's artifact — a wearable document of American military heritage. Finding one in the wild is rare. Owning one is rarer still.
~ The History of the Military Tailcoat:
The military tailcoat — with its dramatic cutaway front, high standing collar, and long swallow tail at the back — reached its peak during the Napoleonic and American Civil War eras (1860s). Inspired by the Hussar cavalry tradition of Central Europe, these jackets were designed to project authority, rank, and national pride. The triple-row button configuration, braided embroidery, and eagle insignia were not decorative afterthoughts — they were the language of power. Today, the tailcoat lives on in ceremonial dress, military academies, gothic fashion, steampunk aesthetics, and theatrical costuming.
~ Product Details:
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Color: Blueish-Grey with Gold Detailing
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Closure: Button-down front with high collar and eye-hook fasteners
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Sleeves: Long sleeve with arm patches
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Lining: Fully lined with soft 100% cotton inner lining
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Design: Triple-row gold buttons embossed with Fishburne eagle & ribbon motif, braided embroidery, cutaway front silhouette, arm patches
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Shell Material: 100% Wool
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Lining Material: 100% Cotton
~ Condition Notes — Sold As-Is:
This is an authentic vintage military garment and carries the beautiful imperfections of its age. Please review carefully before purchasing:
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Some exterior staining
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Significant staining on interior lining: left armpit, right armpit, and back panel
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Minor damage on the collar
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Unfinished back tail hems
These characteristics are consistent with a genuine antique uniform and do not diminish its historical or aesthetic value. All sales are final.
~ Who Is This For?
This jacket was made for those who understand that clothing can be a portal. It's for the:
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🎭 Theater director or costume designer seeking an authentic period piece
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⚔️ Civil War or Napoleonic reenactor who demands the real thing
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🦇 Gothic, steampunk, or Victorian fashion devotee building a statement wardrobe
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🎮 Cosplayer or LARPer who wants to stand apart from the crowd
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🎺 Parade or ceremonial performer who commands attention
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🏛️ Collector or historian preserving American military heritage
~ Why You Need It:
There is exactly one of these in the world. Once it's gone, it's gone. A 100% wool Rowland Uniforms tailcoat with original eagle buttons, gold braiding, and full cotton lining is a museum-quality find that you can actually wear. Whether you're stepping onto a stage, into a convention hall, or simply want the most extraordinary coat in any room — this is it.
~ Style Tips: Fall & Winter Transitions
For Fall: Layer over a crisp white Victorian-collar shirt and slim dark trousers. Add leather Oxford boots and a pocket watch chain for a steampunk-editorial look. The wool weight is perfect for cool autumn evenings.
For Winter: Wear over a fitted turtleneck or thermal base layer. The full lining and dense wool provide genuine warmth. Pair with dark wool trousers and tall boots for a commanding cold-weather silhouette.
~ Styling for Cosplay, Theater & Parade
Men: Pair with high-waisted trousers, white gloves, and a bicorne or shako hat for a full Civil War officer look. Add a saber prop for reenactment or theater.
Women: Style with a corseted waist cincher, full skirt or riding pants, and heeled boots for a dramatic Victorian military aesthetic. This jacket reads powerfully on all body types and genders — the structured shoulders and cutaway front create a bold, editorial silhouette.
Cosplay & LARP: Perfect base for steampunk commanders, gothic aristocrats, vampire lords, or any historical fantasy character requiring gravitas and authenticity.
~ Size Chart:
Measurement |
Inches |
Modern US Size Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
Chest |
36" |
Small / Size 36 (US Men's) |
Shoulder to Shoulder |
16.5" |
Fits narrow to average shoulders |
Front Length |
20" |
Standard jacket front |
Back Length (tail) |
31.5" |
Full tailcoat drop |
Sleeve Length |
25" |
Standard long sleeve |
~ Modern Size Interpretation ( missing the tags ): Based on the 36" chest and 16.5" shoulder width, this jacket corresponds to a modern US Men's Small (S) or a fitted Men's 36. For women, this would fit approximately a US Women's Medium (8–10) depending on bust and shoulder width. The structured wool construction has minimal stretch — please measure carefully before purchasing.
Thirteen Vintage — Rare pieces. Real stories.