Six proofs of Sergeant Chris Sigala in uniform

Datec. 1904

MediumPaper

Dimensions3/4 x 3 1/2 in. (1.9 x 8.9 cm)

ClassificationsDocumentary Artifact

Catalog number1999.28.13

DescriptionThere are six proof type photographs on a strip. The photos are of Sergeant Chris Sigala.

Sergeant Sigala wears an 1890s period blue service uniform (the type worn for training/ field/combat duty). He cap is a Model 1895 hat with crossed rifles with a "1" above and "C" below for C Company, 1st Infantry Regiment of the Arizona National Guard. His coat is a Model 1883 fatigue blouse. Sigala has a marksmanship award (with bars indicating multiple year and/or proficiency awards) pinned to the left breast of his coat - probably an Arizona Territorial period marksmanship award.

The photo was probably taken around 1904 - in February 1904, then-Private Sigala was appointed acting Fifth Sergeant of Company C for long and faithful service (from article in Arizona Republican newspaper, 2-18-1904). He probably received a warrant for his promotion not long after that (which would make the rank official), because sometime in the next few years he earned his commission to officer grade as a lieutenant. Also, within a year or two of this ca.1904 photograph, these blue service uniforms were phased out in favor of khaki and olive drab uniforms for field and general service use (after the US Army adopted the new uniforms ca.1903).

Note - This image may also date to a prior enlistment period, as item number 1999.28.61 is a discharge document which shows that Sigala had earned the rank of Sergeant as early as 1896 (or before).

Status

Not on view