21. Cantinière, Crimean War 1854

The Cantinière  or Vivandière was a recognised role within the French army that acknowledged the need for an officially-sanctioned purveyor of additional rations, including brandy, food and other soldiers’ essentials. The uniform was a variation of that worn by the serving soldiers who would often become the husbands of these ladies. Their roles variously extended to nursing the wounded and in some cases even fighting. This system was adopted by the American armies during the American Civil War.