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|. WAR DEPARTMENT :: OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF
CAVALRY NOTES
PREPARED BY
MAJ. HENRY T, ALLEN
GENERAL STAFF
WASHINGTON
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
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CAVALRY NOTES.
*
IMPORTANCE OF LARGER CAVALRY PoSTS.
Since the Civil War officers of Cayalry have rarely had an
opportunity of seeing a division, or even a brigade, of Cavalry
in operation in our country. In fact, until recently whole regi-
ments assembled have been comparatively rare and we have
largely become habituated to thinking of a regiment as a Very
large aggregation of mounted men, . It is certainly time to
seriously consider the question of combining organizations. So
as to maintain at suitable posts brigades of Cavalry that may
at times be combined with other brigades to make divisions.
The proper handling of Cavalry brigades and divisions would
naturaly reveal defects in a system wherein a regiment consti-
tutes the largest aggregation. It would show the importance
of greater compactness in the smaller units and the corre-
sponding necessity of a greater readiness to strike in all units.
REGIMENTS OF FEWER BUT LARGER UNITs.
The first requisite to efficiency of Cavalry is a proper com-
mand for the captain—a force that will be sufficient to deliver
a real blow after all the usual details are deducted ; the Second
requisite is a compact combination of these units possessing a
maximum of Sabers that can be expeditiously handled as a
regiment by one man. By the latter it must be understood
that the one man (the colonel) must be able to handle his en-
tire command, not in two or three lines (brigade formation),
nor as three semi-independent commands (Squadrons), but as
a Solid unit possessing the greatest mobility. This does not
imply that he will not require field officer assistance in the execu-
tion of various movements, in command of parts of the regi-
ment when detached, as well as administrative supervision of
Certain parts of the regiment in garrison. --
: Tº --, -, .. ". **.*.*
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* , ‘, ‘i, sº . . . . ;
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3
4 CAVALRY NOTES.
It has been demonstrated and conceded that the limit of
Sabers thus handled is between 650 and 950 and that the cor-
responding limit for Captains is between 125 and 160. A major
Would therefore have, say, 300 or more sabers. In the skillful
manipulation of the units thus composed double rank formations
are a necessity. This means not only shortened fronts and
Shortened depths, but a permanent readiness to utilize what is
universally conceded to be the best charging formation—lines
in double, rank. - - - - - -
As long as our troop units consist of only 60 troopers there
can be no question of double rank without a combination of at
least two of them into one.
The readiness with which our drill lends itself to double-
rank formations and the striking similarity of our formations
to those of practically all other nations are indeed remarkable.
The distinguishing differences between our formations and
those of other countries are largely due to the necessity of mak-
ing the best possible showing with our extremely small troop
units. . With them we must have single rank, and we must at
battle exercises, as a rule, employ a road column (fours) in-
stead of a proper maneuvering column (platoons). It is there-
fore easy to see that with a regiment of 12 small units in single
rank and the whole divided into three semi-independent com-
mands the advantages as to compactness and the readiness to
deliver a quick blow with the whole must be lost. If we were
to consider our Cavalry solely in relation to its use in Indian
warfare, there would be less reason to advocate greater co-
hesion, greater striking power, and greater facilities for dis-
mounted fighting in compact formations, the whole being kept
well in the hands of the regimental commander. • . -
STRIKING SIMILARITY OF CAvALRY FoRMATIONS
. . . EvKRYWHERE. . . . .
-The formations of the leading. Cavalries of the world are
practically identical with each other and, interesting to State,
are in principle the same as those of our Squadron except that
we use only single rank and columns of fours more than
they do. . . . . . . . - . . . . . . . . . . . . . -
These formations are the route columns (generally twos and
fours), platoon and troop columns, mass, line of platoon, Col-
umns, and double column of platoons. The regiments vary from
CAVALRY NOTES. 5
four to six troops, inclusive, and each troop (captain's com-
mand) is divided into four platoons having ordinarily a front
of three to five sets of fours. Each of these regiments is
handled like our Squadron, and it therefore makes no difference
in principle in maneuvering them whether the regiments con-
sist of two, three, four, five, or six troops. This drill simplicity
is of great importance in fitting Cavalry commands (both offi-
eers and men) for their greatest utility on the field of battle.
If we compare a Cavalry regiment of six troops each of three
platoons of four sets of fours (or four platoons of three sets of
fours, say 96 men in ranks in each troop), all in double rank,
with a regiment possessing the same number of Sabers (700),
all formed in single rank and divided into three Semiinde-
pendent commands, possibly in two lines, it is evident that in
general one command will need only about half the maneuver-
ing area required by the other. * ,
There has been Some talk of a model regiment, Organized as at
present, with 100 men per troop. If 80 per cent of these men
could be turned out and put into single ranks it would make a
command so unwieldy that only extraordinary men could prop-
erly handle it as a regiment. Neither voice nor trumpet could
reach its extreme limits even when not deployed as ‘skirmishers,
and it would ordinarily be necessary to delegate part of the com-
mand as a second line after the manner of brigade command.
If our Cavalry were always to operate on the field of battle
in single regiments, or less, and we were to completely ignore
formations of brigades, divisións, and Corps, there might be
Some cause for continually resorting to two lines in our regi-
mental drill. Even in as small a command as a brigade of two
regiments there would be at least one regiment not put in two
lines. Beyond the great tactical advantages of compactness and
mobility there are yet weightier ones that require careful con-
sideration—economy as to finances and economy as to detach-
ment away from purely military duty. The proportion of
detached troopers from Small units is far greater than from
large Ones, and the housing and stabling of 12-unit regiments is
relatively much greater than the housing and stabling of 6-unit
regiments having the same number of troopers. -
No idea of uniformity nor of competition with infantry should
be considered. Cavalry should be rated on its own lines as to
organization and equipment, and should in general be reckoned
as a useful, vigorous auxiliary of infantry whether in inde-
6 CAVALRY NOTES.
pendent organizations or as divisional Cavalry. A regiment of
fewer units is far more fit for divisional assignment than is the
present Organization, and in cases of detachment involves the
regiment in fewer fractions. * .
In these days when economy is the watchword, and when
officers with troops are handling but a fraction of the men
Commensurate with their grades, it is advisable to approach the
Subject of Cavalry organization in a businesslike way and to
Carefully, inquire whether we are properly preparing for war.
VALUE OF CIVIL waR ExPERIENCEs.
The Cavalry experiences of our Rebellion should be instruc-
tive to us as they have been to other countries; likewise, the
eXperiences of other countries in long warfare should be in-
Structive to us as they have been to each other. They largely
learned fighting on foot from us, and are apparently going fur-
ther in that direction than we proposed. This is shown by the
lengthy consideration devoted to that subject in their drill regu-
lations and by the fact that three of them have bayonets on
their carbines and a fourth has provided its carbines for the
use of bayonets, if after further trials it be considered advis-
able to adopt them. They have not seen fit to adopt our small
units in single ranks. Doubtless after due trials all of us may
find, Some wisdom in the almost universal large troops, in double
rank. ... . . " - t - - . +
The, following data should cause us to suspect something
wrong in the numerous small units of our Civil War organiza-
tion, which remains unchanged to this day:
“In 1863 there were in the Army of the Potomac 36 regi-
ments (Cavalry), whose effective strength varied during the
six months from May to October between 10,000 and 14,000 men.
This body of Cavalry required in—
1 * ... " Remounts.
May----------------------------- --------------------- 5, 768
June ------ - -— — — — — — —"...i- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6, 327
July---- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i- -------- 4, 716
August -- - - - - - - - * --- ____ 5,499
September------------------------ — — — ____ 5, 829
October––––. - - - 7,336
“This is equivalent to a loss of two and one-half horses per
man, or a räte of five horses pet annum.”
CAVALRY NOTES. 7
These facts indicate that the quintessence of Cavalry lore and
good practice is not always found in the system pursued during
the Rebellion.
The report of the Secretary of War, in referring to the above,
Stated :
“If a similar state of affairs existed through all our Cavalry,
its 223 regiments would require 435,000 horses annually.”
If we assume the average total strength of the 36 regiments
for the six months in question to be 12,000, then the total per
regiment is 333. Making the necessary deductions for details
and noncommissioned officers, there remained troops in Single
rank with ſive to six sets of fours. The regiments of Sheridan’s
command in his Richmond campaign averaged about 250 troop-
erS each. . . . - . .
. . . . . - DRILL REGULATIONS.
The following, taken from the latest drill regulations of other
countries, show, as stated above, the great similarity Of their
organizations and their maneuvering formations to each other,
and to those of our troops and Squadron.
FRANCE.-The troop is composed of four platOOnS and is moved
and maneuvered habitually in Column of platoonS. For attack
it is formed in line. In line the four platoons are placed Side by
side without intervals. The Captain, followed by a trumpeter,
is half a troop front in advance of the center of his troop and
serves as its guide. The second Captain is 3 meters in rear of
the Centel'. -
The regiment is composed of four troops; two troops form a
half regiment. If the regiment is composed of an uneven num-
ber of troops, it is, nevertheless, divided into two half regi-
ments. The troop can be reduced to three and even to two
platoons. The regiment should be exercised in troops Of 64
files; it can also be maneuvered in One rank. The Colonel is
the guide Of the regiment. The base troop follows him. A
place is assigned to the Colonel in the different formations, but
he is, nevertheless, privileged to go where he thinks necessary.
He can be momentarily replaced as guide by the lieutenant col-
Onel, or can indicate the direction and gait to the captain com-
manding the base force. The lieutenant colonel is habitually
Within reach Of the Colonel.
8 CAVALRY NOTES,
The regiment is formed and maneuvered in column of 'pla-
toons, in double Column, in Column of troops, in mass, in line
sº
#
#
#
#
- - Mass. - : 4. º
of platoon columns, and in line. The column of platOOnS, by
reason of its narrow front and the advantages which it possesses.
of easily crossing varied terrain is the formation of march when
§
6
© ô e. Q Ó e
Line of platoon columns.
large distances are to be covered. The facility With which it
can profit by slight undulations of the ground make it specially
fitted for the formation of approach, but in marching directly
o Ö o O Ö O
C-ºl ‘E-ºn C-
* - $ Regiment in line.
toward the enemy this formation is not advisable because of the
time required to deploy it. - -
The double column is intermediary between the column of
platoons and the mass. It is a formation of approach favorable
CAVALRY NOTES. 9
for maneuvering, for use in echelons, and for action by half
regiments. It can be deployed rapidly to the front or in a single
line to either flank. - -
The column of troops is used only as a transitory formation,
which special circumstances require. This formation is useful
in reviews and parades. .
The mass permits of placing troops in a narrow space, while
preserving sufficient independence for facility in marching. It
can be employed in the formation of assembly or approach, but
on condition that it be not exposed to artillery fire. It is the
most vulnerable of all regimental formations and ought to be
absolutely prohibited under fire.
The line of platoon Columns, the deployment of which to the
front is almost instantaneous, is, by reason of its large intervals,
fitted for movements Over varied terrain in the phase which
immediately precedes a direct attack. In Case Of Surprise it
Offers Successful troop echelons On its flanks.
The line is the formation for attack. Its wings must be pro-
tected. It does not lend itself to maneuvers like formations in
column or echelon, but it offers less vulnerability to artillery fire
than deep formations
:
.
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rt
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:
10 CAVALRY NOTES.
GERMANY.-The troop is formed in two ranks, first and see-
ond, and in four platoons; the platoon in groups; the groups in
files. In columns of fours there is no distance between the sets
of fours. § . . . . - : ; ,
The regiment, consists of three to five troops. The drill
regulations find application even in formations of two troops.
The regimental commander is ordinarily about 60 steps in
front of or in the middle of his regiment. The other field.
officer is about a half horse length to the rear and three steps.
to the right of the regimental commander. The formations
are as shown in the plates: * * f * ,
1. Line. - - ; ; ,
2. Line of platoon columns (troop columns).
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O o ... ? o 2
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39
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Regiment in line.
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tº 4t
:* : *: ; ; ; ; Line of platoon columns.
tº & © tº
Note—Intervals between columns = 3 platoon fronts + 6 paces.
CAVALRY NOTES. 11
3. Double column of platoons.
4. Mass (regimental column).
5. Column of platoons (platoon column).
}
!
Double column of platoons.
NoTI.-Distance between troops = platoon distance + 6 paces.
CAVALRY NOTES:
CAVALRY NOTES. - 13
• * , - * * *
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:- Column of platoons:
NOTE.-Distance between troops = platoon distance 3.6 pages.
14 CAVALRY NOTES.
AUSTRIA.—The troop is formed and maneuvered in line or
COlumn. It is divided into four platoons. In line the ranks are
Separated by a distance of two steps. When the troop is divided,
its commander retains command of the stronger part. When the
parts are equal he takes Command Of the part which is to have
the more important duty. Provisions are made for fighting on
foot by having one holder for each 16 horses, by dismounting
in line and by dismounting in column of fours.
In dismounting the Odd numbers of front rank move for-
ward the length of a horse, the even numbers of Second rank
rein back an equal distance.
The regiment.—The troops in the “division ” (half regiment)
and the latter in the regiment are tactically independent bodies,
both of which have fixed places in the primary formation.
- ig"
f f f £i f i.
Lºt:Tzºtz, Lºtº-I: Prºtºtº ** Pºta
* La Ez.
& sº - ~~ * Comm J --- a
$ Divisions-Commandant
& Escadrons -Commandant,
Larz, Fionnier-zag.
Regiment in line.
An independent “division ” is formed and maneuvered a C-
cording to the principles of the regiment.
The regiment is formed and maneuvered in line, line of
platoon columns (column-line) mass, column of platoons (the
column) and double column of platoons (double Column).
The interval between troops in line is 10 steps. Troops have
fixed places at formation, but are not required to maintain
them in maneuvers. - .
The line permits the simultaneous use of the greatest number
of Sabers in the attack and at the same time diminishes the
IOSSes from frontal fire of the enemy.
CAVALRY NOTES. 15
In line of platoon columns the interval is three platoon
fronts plus 10 steps. This formation finds rapid deployment
to the front and makes easy movements in broad front on dif-
ficult terrain. . . " . . . .
! ºf t
- .30.
f i f : . f :
[…] º tºn ſ: Lº Dºn
[+] Lºan [*] Dºd. Dºn Lºn
Lºn Lºn Dºn º Lºn. Fº
“La Ez.
Line of platoon columns.
NOTE.-Intervals = 3 platoon fronts + 10 paces.
Mass is simply the line of platoon columns with intervals of
10 steps. This formation finds application when the regiment
is to be maneuvered in a limited space or beyond the reach of
effective fire.
!--~~.
6 s 4 3 2 r *
* * * * * *~#.
Dºn La Cºn La Dºn Lºn”
Dzºn Lºn Lºn ºn tº ºn
In column of platoons the distance is platoon front plus 10
yards. This formation is employed in long movements because
it is easily adapted to difficult terrain and can easily profit by
slight cover. It permits formation of line, in all directions and
is Specially favorable for deployment toward the flanks.
16
CAVALRY NOTES.
- *
*
& b -
e;
# ,
lºgº ºn
10 paces. J […] . &
L: 2
[º]
D:
[…] 4.
Lº
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[+] 3.
D: e
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Column of platoons.
In the double Column, the ColumnS ar.
separated by intervals of 10 steps... Th
“ division.”. is called the first, the Other th;
Second division. The double column is: OC
casionally formed from a “ division * and ir
an analogous way to that from the reg;
ment. In comparison with the Column, th
double column has the advantage of le:
length and consequently a quicker deploy
ment to the front. -- •
The regimental commander
Supervises the troop CommanderS.
in general
not assume Charge
Of details Of the
maneuvers, but
Only the leading
and conduct of the
troop commanders
should be kept in ...
view. He is not tied
to any fixed place;
yet, when he takes
Over the leading, he
is 30 steps in front
Of the COImmander
of the base troop,
who maintains
that distance.
The COmmander
of an independent
“division ”... c on -
ducts himself like
a regimental Com-
mander. In the
regiment he Super-
vises the correct
I e a ding of the
troops , under him
He should
);
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r*
f
1.
g 1 platoon
front –H
10 paces.
&
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Z.
&
3.
Dºſ!
ºf Ez.
Without e i the r
leading or COm- Double column of platoons.
manding. Excep- ' ' ' , , ,
tional cases in which “division ” comman-
dants command are given in their proper
CAVALRY NOTES. 17
jlaces. When these troops are in line they are in a line with
he regimental Commander. They communicate, when neces-
'ary, the commands of the regimental commander to their
roops. The regimental commander gives them special Orders
}r duties, for example: To take charge of the reserve, to ride
with him for consultation with reference to maneuvering, etc.
RUSSIA.—The troop is drawn up from right to left and is di-
ided into four platoons—two half troops. The first and second
latoons constitute the first half troop and the third and fourth
platoons the second half. As in other countries, when faced to
he rear the rear rank becomes the front rank. ...
The regiment consists of four or six troops, the latter having
ermanent numbers assigned them. The plate shows the posi- .
ion of all concerned in line. The intervals between troops is
.ne platOOn. For convenience in Supervising his command the
$
$.
&
^
$ $ s $ , $ $
4 & 1 & 4 & M & 4 4 A * \ & 4 ! { A $. 4 * 4 & 6 &
0. tº B g {} J. g a j 6 s a t & 8 E
Regiment in line.
regimental Commander goes where his orders can be heard, and
where he can best observe the execution of the movement.
Field Officers are required to look after the correct execution
Of formations and movements and the prevention and correction
Of mistakes. When the regiment is divided, for example, in
movements by successive stages when there is more than one
troop involved, or when the part of the regiment larger than
One troops is Ordered away, field officers take command over
these parts in accordance with instructions from the com-
mandant. The commanders of troops may move to those places
whence their commands can be best heard. The regiment is
divided into the following columns: - -
1. Route column. - -
2. Column of platoons (regimental platoon column).
3. Double column of platoons.
8318°–11 2








1:8 .CAVALRY NOTES.
4. Mass (reserve columni).i. . . . .
5: Column of troops (troop column).
6. Line of platoon ColumnS: .
$º.
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es -
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Double column of platoons.
Y'Yº.
Y.Y."
* - * º s
tºn tº H = H = H
Mass.
ſº-#
**
**
t
E=
Column of platoons
&AWAïR# Nöğ. #9
The coltānāds hay be forfăéâto the fight, to the left, aháčnot
in the order of the number of troops. The plates show these
formations. , - . . . . . . . . : . .
Norg-Distance between troops = 1-platoon front # 7 pates.
*Y* .
#; . . . . . . *, w;
*
$ º ** , ; ; ºt . . . yº. . . . .**
* * tº - - f*). ***'. -- ---.
try tº ºn
ſºj. . [...]" . . . tº
Line of platoon columns.
#
É.
º
*.
* *
i.
NoTF.—Interval between tröops = 4 platoon fronts;

20 CAVALRY NOTES.
EXPERIMIENTS WITH PROVISIONAL REGIMIENTS.
The end of the first day’s experiments with the Eleventh
Cavalry, at Leon Springs, Tex., showed that our captains could,
with very little experience, handle troops in double rank with
48 double files. The troops were divided into four platoons each
Of 12-trooper fronts.
The second day’s experiments in troop drill was made with
troops of 128 men in ranks, divided into four platoons of 16-
trooper fronts. This drill demonstrated that, with little practice,
it would be easily handled, and on about half the area required
in single rank. As it is not believed that our troops will soon
be able to put as many troopers' in line as 128, subsequent ex-
periments were made with 96 men in double rank. There was
a question as to whether - with that number three platoons of
16-trooper fronts is not better than four platoons of 12-trooper
frontS. `. *.
A special advantage of the 16-trooper front is the facility with
which columns of sections (eights) may be formed. Though
not much practiced by other countries, that formation seems to
possess a decided value. . . . . . . .
In the earlier experiments with the two provisional regiments
of the Eleventh Cavalry - too much stress was laid upon the
separation of the regiments into Squadrons, thereby continuing
the brigade idea that permeates our regimental Organization
and its maneuvering. t
In the last experiments at Leon Springs (latter part of July)
only one provisional regiment was formed, and stress was laid
upon the importance of handling it in a compact form as a
single regimental entity.
It was formed of six troops in double rank. Each troop had
48 files in rank formed by consolidating two troops SO that each
of the latter had half of its men in front and half in rear rank.
In dismounting in double rank two ways were employed: 1.
Odd numbers of front rank move forward, even numbers of
rear rank reined back. 2...All except even numbers of rear rank
moved forward. -
The distance between ranks was ordinarily 2 yards (though
1 yard was used by some troop commanders), and the inter-
vals and distances of platoons and troops were maintained in
accordance with the principles of our squadron drill. The
column of fours was practically eliminated as a maneuver
CAVALRY NOTES. 21
formation, it being replaced by the column of platoons. The
colonel was assisted by the lieutenant colonel, and the two
majors exercised supervision over their respective half regi-
ments throughout the drills, taking command of such detached
parts as the colonel directed. But throughout every effort was
made to eliminate the idea of the separate, semi-independent
squadrons with their special distances and intervals. The re-
sult was that the regiment of 650 or more troopers was con-
tinually maneuvered over areas less than half those that would
be required by the same number of sabers in our present or-
ganization, and its elements were always in proper formation
for charging. The troopers were dismounted to fight on foot
with great frequency, and numerous charges were made in
double ranks with fractions of the regiment, all of which were
highly satisfactory. It was generally conceded that the lead
horses in column of eights (formed by moving the platoons or
troops by the flank) were more tractable than the usual column
of fours. That is explained by the assistance that the adjacent
fours give each other. Still the horses could be led away in
columns of fours if woods or other obstacles made it necessary.
The regiment was deployed as skirmishers, leaving a troop be-
hind each flank as reserves; it was maneuvered at all gaits in
all formations, and was at different times commanded by a
colonel, two lieutenant colonels, and two majors. - ... •
After a few days’ experiments there was no longer any ques-
tion of the great facility with which this regiment could be dis-
mounted to fight on foot and quickly afterwards mounted.
Moreover, it was clear that a greater number of men could be
put at a given point in shorter time, either mounted or on foot,
than with the single-rank formation. It was suggested during
the experiments that the regiment of six troops was too large
for a single command. - - - -
It is not believed that all officers will be readily convinced of
the numerous advantages to be gained by any new organization,
nor was it possible to develop all the little details that the
change entailed; still, it is believed that further trials will con-
tinually win advocates for it, and that a board in connection
with a good regiment could, within a comparatively short time,
draw up new regulations Or change our old squadron regula-
tions. So as to meet all requirements. The experiments were
wholly confirmatory of some of the recommendations made in
the past by higher authorities. Possibly the favorable results
22 CAVALRY NOTES.
achieved in Such, a short time in the double-rank formations,
which were new to all, were due to the remarkably well-trained
regiment, with which we were experimenting.
. It is believed that no advantage can be claimed for our pres-
ent Çay alry Organization ; that can not be claimed for one
Wherein, the regimental units are fewer, larger, and more, nearly
equal in peace numbers to war numbers; for one wherein there
is always a command suitable for striking and which can be
COmpactly handled to that, end.
Finally, and in brief, it may be stated that our present Cav-
alry, regiment is faulty in principle and unnecessarily expensive
in administration, both as to men and money; that our Cavalry
System, or policy leaves us wholly, ignorant of the practical op-
erations of Cavalry except in its minor rôles, such as patrols
and: SCOuts, advance, and rear guards, etc.
. It is therefore recommended that further trials be made, with
a view to fixing upon the details of a regiment of much fewer
and much stronger units (one of , which will be a reserve or
depot. One), and that Cavalry be assembled at posts or camps
in brigades; and divisions with the Cavalry auxiliary, horse
artillery, as early as practicable, in order that experience and
instruction...in the broader, rôles of Cayalry service may be at-
tainable by all officers concerned. * , -
CREATION OF PRESENT CAVALRY organization.
The question naturally arises as to why our present organiza-
tion was adopted. ... Perhaps the general orders cited below will
explain the query, and, they will show that it was not at all
a result of war experience as ordinarily believed, but rather a
desire to have “the system of Infantry Tactics prepared by
Bvt. Maj. Gen. E. Upton, United States Army, adopted as the
system for the armies of the United States in the place of all
Others.” • & - x. -
In the Cavalry Tactics (Cooke's), 1861, the first paragraph
of the book stated that “the companies, will be designated as
squadrons.” The regiment consisted of 1 colonel, 1 lieutenant
Colonel, 2 majors, and 10 Squadrons. There was only one bat-
talion included in these regulations, which continued in force
until 1873, 13 years after the war began. * *
In the new Cavalry Tactics (1873), prepared by two field, ar-
tillerymen...and two. cavalrymen the names “company,” “bat-
CA.V.A.L.RY NOTES. 23.
talion,” and “ regiment * were adopted for the Cavalry. Under
these drill regulations it would be possible to have a regiment of
four battalions each of seven companies, although the normal
was three battalions of four companies each. From that it may
be seen that the Cavalry anticipated the Infantry in the three
battalion organization (that of the Infantry being adopted in
1891), and in the great effort at assimilation practically a Cav-
alry brigade organization was adopted.
In fact, the same Tactics (1873) provided as follows:
“All the rules for the evolutions of the regiment are applica-
ble to the brigade.” -
sºmsºmºmºsºm-mºs
General Orders, : HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY.
NO. T 3. ADJUTANT GENERAL's OFFICE,
- Washington, August 1, 1867.
The following order received from the War Department is
published for the information and guidance of the Army:
. . . WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, August 1, 1867.
oRDER IN RELATION To UPTON's INFANTRY TACTICS.
The new system of Infantry Tactics, prepared by Bvt. Maj.
Gen. Emory Upton, United States Army, recommended for
adoption in the place of all others, by a board Of Officers, of
which, Gen. Grant is president, having been approved, is adopted
for the instruction of the Infantry of the Army of the United
States, and for the observance of the militia of the United
States. . - !
To insure, uniformity-throughout the Army, all:Infantry exer-
Gises and maneuvers not embraced, in that System are pro-
hibited, and those therein prescribed will be strictly observed.
EDw1N M. STANTon,
Secretary of War.
. By command of Gen. Grant : • -
• * . . . E. D. Townsend,
Assistant Adjutant General.
24. CAVALRY NOTES.
Extract from the proceedings of a board of officers which
convened at West Point, N. Y., by virtue of the following orders,
WIZ : - - - - -
Special Orders. - WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 300. ADJUTANT GENERAL's OFFICE,
• . * Washington, June 11, 1867.
A board will assemble at West Point, N. Y., on Tuesday, the
9th day of July, 1867, to take into consideration the system of
Infantry Tactics prepared by Byt. Maj. Gen. E. Upton, United
States Army, and will report its opinion whether the said tactics
Should be adopted as the System for the armies of the United
States in lieu of all others. The board will be composed as fol-
lows: Gen. U. S. Grant, United States Army; Maj. Gen. G. G.
Meade, United States Army; Byt. Maj. Gen. E. R. S. Canby,
United States Army; 3vt. Maj. Gen. W. F. Barry, colonel Sec-
Ond United States Art). Bry; Bvt. Brig. Gen. W. N. Grier, colonel
Third United States Cavalry; Bvt. Col. H. M. Black, major,
Seventh United States Infantry. . . . . -
By order of the Secretary of War. • * ,
- - . (Signed) E. D. Town SEND,
* . . . . . . . ASSistant Adjutant General.
:k :}; $: >k sk :}; >{<
The general advantages of the new system are: -
1. Its easy application to all the arms of the service, leaving
nothing additional to any special branch except the manual of
the arm with which it fights, the adaptation of the words of
command, the training of animals, and the management and care
of the material with which it is equipped. - -
2. The readiness with which the principles may be acquired by
new troops, abbreviating materially the time required to fit them
for the field, and practically extending the effective term of
Service Of the Soldier. . This is Of great importance in relation to
the volunteer force, of which in all great wars our armies must
be largely composed.
The Special advantages are:
That it dispenses with the maneuvering by the rear rank, by
inversion, and the countermarch, and substitutes therefor rāpid
and Simple conversions of front, and changes from Column into
line.
That it increases the number of modes of passing from the
Order in column to the order in line, facing in any direction ;
CAVALRY NOTES. 25
diminishes the time required for these changes, and preserves
always the front rank in front—advantages of vital importance
in the presence and under the fire Of the enemy. . 1 * *
That it provides for all column movements required in an
open country and by the column of fours, for the movements
necessary in narrow roads, wooded or obstructed countries, with-
out the extension incident to ordinary movements by, the flank.
That it provides for a single rank formation, specially adapted
to the use of breechloaders. -
That it provides for a system of skirmishing, from double or
single rank, superior for offense or defense to any existing
System. . - *
The board, therefore, recommend that the system of Infantry
Tactics prepared by Bvt. Maj. Gen. E. Upton, United States
Army, be adopted as the system for the Armies of the United
States in the place of all others. " . * - . ... "
(Signed) TJ. S. GRANT, General.
(Signed) GEO. G. MEADE, .
. . . - Major General, U. S. Army.
(Signed) ED. R. S. CANBY,
. . Brigadier and Brevet Major General.
(Signed) WILLIAM. F. BARRY,
- Colonel Second Artillery,
- Brevet Major General, U. S. Army.
(Signed) W.M. N. GRIER, • *
Colonel Third United States Cavalry,
Brevet Brigadier General, U. S. Army.
(Signed) FI. M. BLACK, ar . . .
Major Seventh United States Infantry,
Brevet Colonel, U. S. Army.
... Approved and referred to The Adjutant General.
August 1, 1867. -
. - * (Signed) E. M. STANTON,
: . - - : Secretary of War.
* A true extract from official report. -
. . . . . . ... HoRACE PORTER,
Brevet Brigadier General and Aid-de-Camp.
26. CA.V.A.L.RY NOTES,
General Orders, - HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
No. 6. Washington, July 17, 1873.
The following order, received from the War Department, is
published for the information and guidance of the Army :
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, July 17, 1873.
The revision of Upton's Infantry Tactics by the author, and
the Tactics for Artillery and Cavalry (including the proceed-
ings of the board—Maj. Gen. Schofield, president—instituted by
General Orders, No. 60, Headquarters of the Army, Adjutant
General’s Office, series of 1869), assimilated to the Tactics for
Infantry, pursuant to instructions from the General of the
Army, by Lieut. Col. Emory Upton, First Artillery, instructor
of tactics, United States. Military Academy; Capt. Henry A.
Du Pont, Fifth Artillery, commanding Battery F, Fifth Artil-
lery; Capt. John E. Tourtelotte, Seventh Cavalry, colonel, and
aid de camp to the General; Capt. Alfred E. Bates, Second
Cavalry, assistant instructor of Cavalry tactics, United States
Military Academy, having been approved by the President, are
adopted for the instruction of the Army and Militia of the
United States. - * -
To insure uniformity, all exercises, evolutions, and ceremonies
not embraced in these Tactics are prohibited, and those therein
prescribed will be strictly observed.
WM. W. BELKNAP,
- - - Secretary of War.
By command of Gen. Sherman. ... "
- - WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE,
Assistant Adjutant General.
OUTLINES OF A SIX-TROOP CAVALRY REGIMIENT.
If the cavalry peace strength were fixed at 16,800 enlisted
(approximately 4,000 above present authorized strength) and
the regiment at 700 sabers, there would be 24 regiments each
of 6 fighting troops of about 110 men, 1 reserve troop, 4 field
officers, 10 captains, 14 first lieutenants, and 8 second lieuten-
ants. That would be an increase of 9 Colonels, 9 lieutenant
colonels, 3 majors, 15 captains, 111 first lieutenants, and a loSS
Of 33 Second lieutenants.
Following the same organization and utilizing the present
authorized strength, very slightly increased, there would be 20
CAVALRY NOTES. 27
regiments as above. That would give an increase of 5. Colonels,
5 lieutenant colonels, a loss of 5 majors, and a net loss of 35
company officers (25 captains lost, 55 first lieutenants gained,
65 second lieutenants lost). &
The drill regulations of the several countries cited above do
not show their respective totals of regimental field officers,
Some of whom are with depot or reserve troops. In this Sug-
gested plan the ratio of field officers to company officers is as
1 to 8. (in present organization 1 to 9), whereas the average
of other cavalries is as 1 to 7.2. The ºratio of captains, to
lieutenants remains practically as at present, that is, 1 cap-
tain to 2 lieutenantS. -
Perhaps it would be advisable to make the troops a little
larger than 110 men, in order that at formations. each troop
might have a front of 48 troopers (3 platoons of 16 double files
or 4 platoons of 12 double files). In war the troop strength
should be set so as to give a troop front of 64 troopers. These
tentative plans are cited to show in a general way, what could
be effected under a six-troop organization, what would be the
possible number of regiments involved, and what would be
the , results On the Officer; perSOnnel both as regards the present
and the future. - •
PEAGE STRENGTH OF CAVALRY AND ITS RATIo To
. . [NFANTRY.
There has been a disposition on the part of some persons to
claim that the present Cavalry force is sufficient for the Coun-
try. Some have even claimed that we have more Cavalry than
we should have, therein losing sight of the extreme difficulty
and great delay involved in making volunteer Cavalry field-fit.
The Knowland bill, which proposes six complete divisions, etc.,
for the mobile Regular Army, meets the approval of the Infan-
try and Field Artillery. That bill provides for six divisions of
nine Infantry regiments each, two Field Artillery regiments,
one Cavalry regiment, and certain technical troops, also one
Cavalry division of nine regiments with horse artillery and
Certain technical troops. - -
It increases the Infantry by 24 regiments, doubles the Artil-
lery, and leaves the Cavalry as at present. This bill, with its
provisions, is cited to show the trend of thought in certain
SphereS. . -- …” -
28 CAVALRY NOTES,
The proportion of Sabers to bayonets is in various countries
fixed at about 125 to 1,000, and is based largely Upon financial
reasons. Barring expense, there is hardly any limit: that
Should be set to the amount of Cavalry that countries should
possess. Properly handled, Cavalry has by reason of its speed,
mobility, and capacity to fight dismounted, great superiority.
Bearing these facts in mind, it would seem that the bill above
referred to Should have for each infantry division a regiment
as provided, and two independent divisions for the larger and
more important rôles of independent Cavalry. In some coun-
tries, where Cavalry is not in sufficient numbers, provision is
made for mounted Infantry, or the sending of Infantry in
Wagons Or on bicycles' to reinforce Cavalry at important points.
In fact, in Our Country war effectiveness alone should determine
the amount of independent Cavalry maintained. , ,
... The bill referred to relates solely to the regular establishment
and, makes provisions for a larger peace status than can be
expected from Congress within the near future. In any event,
in fixing the mobile forces of the United States the length of
time required to make the various elements field fit, the present
and expanded strength of the Organized Militia, and the prob-
able number of volunteers called out must be given full con-
Sideration.
The following tables show the strength of Infantry and Cav-
alry of the several countries and the percentage of these two
arms to the total peace strength:

, COuntries. |Infantry. Cavalry. Infantry. Cavalry.
Per cent. | Per cent.
France----------------------------------- 379,640 75, 510 59.77 11. 89
Germany -------------------------------. 404,765 73,368 63.81 11. 56
Austria. ---------------------------------- 194, 123 47,541 59. 34 14. 51
Russia ----------------------------------- 580,000 | 115,000 48.33 9.58
England --------------------------------- 151,261 20,716 59.21 8. 10
Italy ------------------------------------- 167,000 24,000 || 57.90 8.32
Mexico ---------------------------------- 20, 326 7,318 63. 50 22.86
Japan ------------------------------------ 149,402 14,585 64.95 6. 34
|United States : * - . - .
Regulars----------------------------- 27, 370 13, 540 33. 64 16. 64
Organized Militia...... * = • - - - - - - - - - - - 97,035 4, 167 81.09 3.48
Total.------------------------------ 124,405 17,707 61, 70 8. 80
CAVALRY NOTES.
29
These data show that our Cavalry, both Regular and militia,
is only 17,700, or 8.8 per cent of the whole.
It is considerably
less than in France, Germany, Austria, and Russia, and about
equal to that of England and Italy. . -
The following gives the fighting strength of existing organi-
zations of the various countries on mobilization : . .

. .. Infantry Cavalry
. . countries. rifles. Sabers.
France-------------------------------------------------------- 618,450 66,750
Germany------------------------------------------------------ 633,000 || 76,500
Austria-------------------------------------------------------- 420, 300 37,800
Russia--------------------------------------------------------- 973, 152 111,825
England ------------------------------------------------------ 135,020 15,000
Italy ---------------------------------------------------------- 300,000 20,880
Mexico.-------------------------------------------------------- 53,760 14,016
Japan --------------------------------------------------------- 228,000 14, 550
|United States:
Regulars..... -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 39,600 15,225
Organized militia----------------------------------------- 167,000 5,800
Total---------------------------------------------------- 206,600 21,025
This shows that our percentage of sabers to bayonets is less
than that in France, Germany, Russia, and England. The ratio
of Sabers to bayonets in the United States should, for reasons
stated above, be larger than in other countries. A ratio of only
150 Sabers to 1,000 bayonets would necessitate an increase over
our expanded strength (15,000 regulars, 6,000 militia) of ap-
proximately 10,000 Sabers. It is an unfortunate fact that much
Of Our militia Cavalry is far below a proper standard of effi-
Ciency, and in these estimates it is probably put too high.
The above data leave out of consideration the large Volunteer
Army (at least 200,000) that would be organized at the begin-
ning of a war. As it is not reasonable to believe that Cavalry
Organizations could be created as quickly or as effectively as
Infantry ones, some additional peace Cavalry organizations
Should be reckoned on to supplement volunteer requirements.
In the Rebellion the proportion of Cavalry to Infantry was
approximately as follows: 223 regiments to 980 regiments.
Since the authorized Cavalry regiment was, by general Orders,
April 29, 1863, fixed at 1,244 and the Infantry regiment at 1,022,
30 - & CAvALRY: Noſſes.
the rātio of Sabers to bayoffets was as 1 to 3.62; in other words,
276, sabers to 1,000 bayonets (27.6 per cent): " . . . . . . . . .
In a reasonable; eonsideration of Óir first line of Infantry
(militia 145 and regulars 30), say 175 regiments (19 divisions—
5 field armies), it is: right to assign” 19 Cavalry regiments as
divisional Cavalry and to give to eačh two field armies at least
an independent Cavalry division, Say 2% divisions—21 regiments.
Summing this up, we see that the first line would require for
its 175"Infäätry regiments 40 Cavalry regiments, instead of the
21 (15 regular and 6 militia) that we have. Estimating the
Cavalry regiments at 1,200 and the Infantry regiments at 1,500,
ºthere results 183 sabers to 1,000 bayonets. Estimating the
Cavalry regiments at 750, half the strength of infantry régi-
ments, the proportion would be 114 Sabers to 1,000 bayonets. “

CAvALRY DRILL REGULATIONS OF THE CIVIL waR.
The accompanying plate shows the regimental formation and
clearly indicates the organization that was used during the
Civil War. Cook's Tactics with the single rank was tried out
around Washington in the winter of 1861–2, but in the spring
of 1862 the double-rank system was resumed and continued till
the end of the struggle. . . . . . . - - * . . . * .
The first edition of Poinsett's Cavalry Tactics, “printed by
order of the War Department,” was published in Washington
in 1841, the second and third in Philadelphia in 1855 and in 1862,
respectively, and the fourth at the Government Printing. Office
in 1864. The following appears in all the editions:
ForMATION of A REGIMENT OF FIVE squaBRon's IN oftDER OF BATTLE
- - (or IN LINE). -
The squadrons of a regiment in order of battle are distin-
guished by the denomination of first, second, third, fourth, and
fifth ; they are formed on the same line, in the order 6f these
numbers, commencing. On the right, and with an interval of
12 paces. . - . .
This is the primitive and habitual Order of the squadrons in
regimentS.: * - - * . . . * *
Each squadron is composed of four platoons, distinguished by
… the deriomination of first, second, third, and fourth, commencing
On the right. ; : -
The first and second platoons form the first division, the third
and fourth form the second division.
The formation is in two ranks; the Oldest Soldiers in each
platoon are placed in the front rank, and from right to left in
each rank.
When the Squadron is to be exercised, it is composed habit-
ually Of 48 files; consequently, each division is composed of
24 files, and each platoon of 12; if the squadron is increased to
64 files, the platoon is then divided into 2 sections; that on the
Tight is the first, and that on the left the second.
That Which is prescribed for the formation. When mounted is
applicable to the formation on foot, $1
32 CAVALRY NOTES.
POSTS OF THE OFFICERS AND NON COMMISSIONED OFFICERS OF THE
FIELD AND STAFF OF A REGIMIENT IN ORDER OF BATTLE.
(Plate 1.) The colonel 25 paces in front of the center of the
regiment, having a chief bugler behind him.
The lieutenant colonel 12 paces in advance of the center of
, the right wing. . . . *
The major 12 paces in advance of the center of the left wing.
The colonel moves wherever his presence may be necessary.
The lieutenant colonel and major move wherever the colonel
may think proper to direct them.
. The adjutant on a line with the front rank, 2 paces from the
right of the regiment. • * * •.
+ . . . $ × + >k
PoSTS OF THE OFFICERS AND NONCOMMISSIONED of FICERs of A
SQUADRON IN LINE. - - * -
. . . The captain commanding is posted at the center of the Squad-
ron, the croup of his horse 1 pace in front of the heads of the
horses Of the front rank.
The Second Captain 3 paces in rear of the Center of the
squadron. He is charged with the alignment of the rear rank
and file closers. : • , . - - -
The Senior first lieutenant commands the first platoon; the
Other first lieutenant Commands the fourth platoon. … .
The Senior second lieutenant commands the Second platoon;
the other second lieutenant commands the third platoon.
… Each of these officers is posted at the Center of his platoon,
with the croup of his horse 1 pace in front of the heads of the
horses Of the front rank. * * ! .
O
\ BASIS OF I. NSTRUCTION
---, Article, 1.
- FORMATION OF A REGIMENT OF FIVE SQUA) RONS IN ORDER OF BATTLE
Explanations of the Signs
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