JIM T,

I caution you on historical mirror imaging. In historical research it can lead to fallicies and the perpetuating of incorrect assumptions. Reenacting, unfortunately, serves as a catalyst for this often.

I recommend the publication at the link below. The WATCHDOG has been around for a number of years and it explores a number of issues in reenacting and the accuracy of impressions.

http://www.watchdogreview.com/issues.shtml

You may want to also check out the CAMP CHASE GAZETTE at http://www.campchase.com/

Two facts for you to ponder with your theory.

1. Men did not do "women's" work in the 19th Century for the most part. Soldiers did not have an extensive amount of time to knit. They did repair holes in socks and garments.

2. Wool and cotton thread were scarce. The likelihood of yarn to coming into the hands of an enterprising soldier I do not believe to be likely.

I have read hundreds of letters of soldiers in camp and I have not run across soldiers knitting in their spare time.

I hope this helps.

Respectfully,

Gerald D. Hodge, Jr.
War Between the States Historian
Historian: 39th Georgia Volunteer Infantry Regiment
http://39thgavolinfrgt.homestead.com/39thHomepage.html