Did they where leather vests in the Old West

[Steel Horse Bailey]

Since this forum is about the "real history" then the question would have been better in a different forum, never ask a question if you don't want the answer.  And the question was answered as far as what documentation shows.  Wear Nike tennis shoes if you want, but don't ask me if they made them and then decide you don't like the answer.

That pretty much sums it up.

All of this is fun, but some of us "Cas City Historical Society"  readers try to be as accurate as possible.  "Sorta accurate" will work for SASS and a few other Western venues, because the VAST majority of watchers/readers/listeners don't know the real story.  That's why when folks DO bother to go to reenactments, they're amazed  at how utterly REALISTIC the folks are.  This is how NCOWS came about, after SASS started the ball rolling - at least as far as most of the the SHOOTERS are.  Those of us (and YOU are included in this group) who try to be as authentic as possible - economically as well as intellectually, are, IMHO teachers!  We want to learn, but have fun, too!

To use myself as an example, I portray either an active-duty long serving NCO in the Cavalry or a recently-retired ex Cavalry 1st Sergeant.  Aside from financial hurdles (authentic reproductions AIN'T cheap) I'm allergic to wool.  What are mostly (but not) ALL old Military AND civilian clothing made of?  Yep.  Wool.  I can wear wool, but only with some cotton between me and the wool.  Makes for some pretty warm outfits!  No amount of knowledge or wishing will change that fact, so I see what is RIGHT, then go from there. 

Just my experiences.  There's a lot to learn here, and I'm glad we all can stay civil here!  Take the knowledge you find here and run with it ... just don't argue about it. 

Ride easy!

SHB