New York's Finest - the 5th

The 5th New York Volunteer Infantry had a distinguished two year service in the civil war.  They were present at the first land action of the war and proved their worth with a charge at Big Bethel.  No other Union regiment sustained as many casualties in a single day's battle as the 5th (120 men killed or mortally wounded in 7 minutes at the Second Bull Run). The 5th had a reputation of 'elite' status, being comprised of well educated men, of whom around 80% were born in America.  They were mostly from Manhattan.  Commanded by Abram Duryee a skilled and relentless drillmaster, demonstrated courage under fire and epitomised the ideals of the regiment. After the regiment's term of service expired after Chancellorsville, the 5th NY returned to a parade down Broadway. The New York Times reported " The men were brown and rugged; their colours were weather stained and bullet torn; their uniforms were tattered and stained with Virginia mud and the smoke of hard fought conflicts. They looked magnificent."

The 'Magnificent Duryee's 5th New York Zouaves

Above is a quick snap of the 5th NY I have just painted.  The figures are from Mark Fenlon Miniatures and were an absolute pleasure to paint.  The picture doesn't do them justice!