An excellent resource on the use of the shelter half in the American Civil War is Frederick Gaede The Federal Shelter Half in the American Civil War, A bit of background; the shelter half came about from George McClellans visit to the Crimean War. He saw the French troops with the "tent d abri" and thought it would be admirable for issue to US troops.The French issued tent poles but the US did not until later in the war.
Among other things from his visit was the McClellan saddle and the first US bayonet drill.
The 1850's were times of great inovation for the US Army. Jefferson Davis, although a horrible president of the Confederacy; was probably one of the best Secretary's of War they ever had. He had new drill and tactics developed, introduced the rifle musket and even looked into the Camel Corps.
Bob Gregory
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