General Washington's infantry guard consisted of a full company of men charged with the protection of his person, his headquarters staff, military papers, money and baggage. Originally formed in March of 1776, it was reformed under secret orders in early 1778, authorizing only native born men as it was found that foreign born soldiers were unreliable, for indeed, a plot was uncovered involving several of his guard to assassinate the General. The reformed guard was composed of two men from the Continental regiments at Morristown, each man had to be 5' 9' tall, well formed and disciplined. They were distinguished by their red waistcoats, and, after 1780, the fur crested helmet patterned after those adopted by Lafayette for his light infantry.
Note: Coloring information for the Guard is included with this casting series #43 as well as for series #41 when they appeared in cocked hats.
