The Sailors Uniform of the 1830's thru the 1850's were unique in their own right. 

During this period is when the collar was large and usually decorated with stars, striping and anchors.  Eventually, during the 1850's and into the 1860's the collar would become elongated to the size that is synonymous with many Sailor uniforms around the world today. 

  The Sailors uniform of the early 19th century was, in most cases, handmade by the Sailor who wore it.  In some cases a more experienced Sailor would accomplish the stitching.  Either way, since the sewing machine wasn't a practical shipboard invention until the late 1800's, the uniform was hand sewn. 

  If you're a re-enactor and interested in hand stitching a uniform you can be proud of, be prepared to spend a bit of time with a needle and thread, as would the period Sailors.  

  During voyages that could last years, Sailors would become highly experienced in a variety of skills, and sewing was just one skill.  To their fancy, they would embroider their Sunday dress uniform or their "going ashore clothes"  with decorations such as stars, anchors and other nautical motifs. 

  The few surviving uniforms of the period were beautifully embroidered.  These uniforms were well cared for, and most likely survived because they were the Sailors "going ashore clothes" not meant for the wear and tear of regular shipboard duties. 

  Many Ships Captains would allow time off on a Wednesday afternoon for the Sailors to mend their clothing.  This time off, reminiscent to time off on a Sunday, would be known as "Ropeyarn Sunday".

  Many re-enactors seemingly envision a dress uniform that is designed from a drawing of Boatswains Mate George Brown from the USS Concord.  His uniform is most likely a Sunday Dress, Inspection uniform or Going Ashore uniform.  Anyways, It was a uniform fine enough to have an engraving done and an excellent example of a period sailors uniform.

  Your needs may be different from the Geo. Brown uniform.  If you are interpreting a Sailor in a working uniform, then you may want to dispense with the piping and stars that adorn the collar, cuffs and bosom or chest.  A uniform less ornate may suffice as a working sailor, until you hone your sewing skills.

  A good interpretation comes from your knowledge and the realism of the time and its place in history.  Just being fancy doesn't make a good interpretation but it can draw some initial interest from the landlubbers who come to visit.  Everyone loves a Sailor in uniform, especially the ladies.  

  Embrace and appreciate the Sailor as a working man, wearing a working uniform.

  The most important thing for any Sailor is to "Get to know the time period the Sailor represents".

"Is it a Blouse or a Frock?"

"Is it a blouse or a frock?"

"Yes."  That's the short answer.

Now let's define each based upon the different uses.

Blouse:  a loose fitting shirt that is worn as an outer garment to protect the wearer from dirt and grime.  Normally tucked or tied at the waist.  First used in the English language in 1823 from the French word, blouse.

Frock: a long outer garment.  Normally worn un-tucked, loose and open at the waist.  Origin 14th century Middle-English.

So, Call it a Frock or a Blouse? 

Although worn tucked into the trousers or with a drawstring about the waisteline hem, the term frock was used to describe this uniform garment throughout the 19th century.  Prior to then it would have been proper to call it a shirt.

Today's US Navy Sailor wears a dress garment that's commonly called a "jumper".  But then again, by historical definition it would  be called a Frock, since it is worn un-tucked and covering the top of the trousers since 1944.

The term "jumper" is out of place during the 19th century and would not be used to describe this uniform garment. 

A jumper by definition is a long sleeved, collarless, wool pullover sweater.  This closely describes the undershirt worn during the 1800's.

When and why the US Navy began to call a "frock"  a "jumper", is unknown to me.  Maybe it was written in the regulations by someone who wasn't familiar with the definitions. 

Anyway, Let me know if you do.

A Historic Description of the Sailors Uniform. 

Roundabout or Monkey Jacket

• Kersey Wool, Navy Blue
  
• Flat Collar w/ notched lapels
  
• Double Breasted 7-9 brass buttons per side
  
• Pockets, 2 Welted outside
  
• Flannel Lining
  

Vest or Waistcoat

• Kersey wool or duck (preferred flax or cotton
  
• Navy blue or Indigo
  
• No Collar
  
• Double Breasted
  
• Two welted pockets
  

Trouser

• Kersey Wool, Navy Blue or Indigo
  
• Duck Cloth, White 20-23oz
  
• Single inside leg seam
  
• Legs are straight thigh to cuff
  
• Leg Diameter is approximately 23 inches or 4 inches larger than the measured thigh
  
• Small fall, 5-7 button
  
• Broad fall, 9-13 buttons
  
• Waist band 2-3 inches with 6-14 small rear grommets for cinching
  
• Pockets, one or two welt pockets at bottom of waste band at the top of the fall
  

LS

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Fickle Finger of Fate

The Sailors uniform

Sailor Uniforms of the 1830-50's