Fourth of July in and about New York. The Highlanders marching in Tryon Row, July 4th, 1860. Commanded by Col. Thomas W. McLean, the 79th NYSM (Highlanders) brought up the rear of the column in the July Fourth Parade of 1860 wearing their dark blue “polka jackets” with red trim, Cameron of Erracht tartan kilts, and Glengarry bonnets. The kilts were worn against the State Adjutant General’s orders. Four pipers of the Caledonian Club stand at their front waiting for the band, which may have been Robertson’s, to negotiate the narrow turn into the Park. The over the shoulder saxhorns played by this and other bands in the parade were designed especially so that troops marching behind them could properly hear the music. The 79th New York served as volunteers throughout the Civil War although they were later on occasion issued US regulation infantry clothing. 2-cent tax stamp on verso.
