So, if the 'Trent Affair' had escalated...

[Meier_Elf_Fanatic]

A very good morning to you all.

Well, I have decided to buy an army based on the British Intervention Force range from the Perrys, just because they look lovely - I will brook no argument on this matter.

I am interested to hear what you fine people feel would be a nice U.S force to take it on.

I am thinking about a divisional sized force, and wonder if getting some use out of greatcoats and militia uniforms is viable? I mean, all those early and pre-ACW uniforms are crying out for some abuse, surely...

[has.been]

because they look lovely - I will brook no argument on this matter.

You'll get none from me.

if getting some use out of greatcoats and militia uniforms is viable?

As the most likely area of conflict would be along the Canadian border, greatcoats
would be a very good idea.

I will follow your progress with interest.
I might even raise enough for a skirmish game.

[Meier_Elf_Fanatic]

Yes, I quite like the idea of the British being in red and standing knee deep in snow, stoically facing the upstart Americans in their greatcoats

[has.been]

Typical British (frozen) Stiff Upper Lip. 

[Meier_Elf_Fanatic]

Quite so. But in a manly, oh-so British way...

[CapnJim]

Yes, well, it isn't like the British and Americans hadn't fought in winter conditions along the Canadian border before...

And given the timing of that affair, I too would use early ACW troops in greatcoats.  But given the Union was still in the middle of mobilizing, I'm not sure how many regulars or volunteer units would have participated.  There likely would have been a great number of new England and/or Great Lakes states militias involved.  Their uniforms were all over the map...

And I have a bunch of Perry's British Intervention Force figures painted up as Canadians for The Battle of Ridgeway.  They are VERY nice...