Pre-Civil War (Ca. 1850s) Militia Cartridge Box

Good example of a general type used by both sides (especially Confederates) in the early part of the Civil War. Tarred surface to protect cartridges from the elements. Complete with tin liner (made with no divider), closure tab, brass finial, both strap loops, plus two wooden buttons for attaching a shoulder strap. The box's dimensions (apart from front flap) are about 7" wide x 4" high by 1 3/4 deep.

Front flap is about 1/2 wider and longer. Stitching holding the back and sides together has broken except for about 1 at the bottom on each side (see last 4 photos). This likely was caused by. Stress from repeatedly opening the front flap. The separation could be repaired, but I will leave that decision to the next owner.

The box otherwise remains in very nice condition.

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