Camp Floyd facts

• Named for John B. Floyd (secretary of war, 1858).

• Camp Floyd garrisoned 3,500 troops (nearly a third of the U.S. Army at the time).

• $200,000 was spent building the post.

• The influx of camp followers into nearby Fairfield increased the population to 7,000 (making it the third largest city in the Utah Territory).

• At its height, Fairfield had 17 saloons.

• The camp was abandoned in 1861 as a result of the Civil War.

• $4 million worth of Army surplus was then sold to local residents for cents on the dollar.

U.S. Infantry

1857

The regulation uniform of the late 1850s was in transition. It still retained some elements from the Mexican War while reflecting a more formal French influence.

• French-style shako:

Forerunner of the Civil War kepi

• Brass epaulets

5th Infantry

(Florida)

• Woolen frock coat

• 1843 Springfield caplock musket:

caliber: .69

weight: 10 pounds

length: 57.5 inches

• Leather cartridge box

• Bayonet

• Worsted-wool pants

• Ankle-high brogans

The initial expedition to Utah had provisions for six months. Supplies included 250 Sibley (tepee-style) tents.

March to Utah

The initial 1857 force consisted of:

2nd Dragoons (Kansas)

5th Infantry (Florida)

10th Infantry (Minnesota)

4th Artillery (Phelps and Reno batteries)