The sport of dueling is usually thought of as a throwback to a bygone era - two duelists (typically men) participating to defend their honor.  Usually the fight was over a woman, finances, or principles.  In this case, it centered over something much more obscure - a fashion statement.  

The combatants were Dr. James William White, an army surgeon and Robert "Bertie" Adams Jr., both members of Philadelphia's First City Troop, the Nation's continually active mounted unit.  Dr. White felt that he should be allowed to wear the elaborate uniform of the soldiers, rather than the usual pedestrian attire for an army doctor. He protested and was eventually allowed  don the uniform, without the uniquely embroidered jacket. Not all agreed with this concession by the army, including Robert Adams.

More information can be found on this duel in HSP's archives. Please visit hsp.org for more information.

Fig Leaf Rag by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)  Source: http:incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc?USUAN1100701
Artist: http:incompetech.com

This video was created by Gina Reitenauer, Digital Video Intern at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.