What Soldiers Wore Per Capt. Brush

Ft. Christmas's Uniform Display

Library of Virginia's site included Soldiers of the War of 1812 (Research Notes Number 19) online, which included a description of how new recruits were outfitted for war:

"In his reminiscences, Captain Henry Brush described with precision what newly enlisted recruits wore during the War of 1812. Soldiers were outfitted for service in unbleached, tow-linen hunting shirts and trousers. On their heads they wore low-crown hats, on the left side of which were black cockades about two inches in diameter. A small silver eagle (about the size of a quarter) was fastened in the center of each cockade." 

Follow the link to see the rest of the description.