Civil War Original Period Items

Scarce Early 1840's Boston Light Infantry Shoulder Belt Plate

Scarce Early 1840's Boston Light Infantry Shoulder Belt Plate
Scarce Early 1840's Boston Light Infantry Shoulder Belt Plate
Scarce Early 1840's Boston Light Infantry Shoulder Belt Plate

Scarce Early 1840's Boston Light Infantry Shoulder Belt Plate

Scarce Circa 1840 Boston Light Infantry Cross Belt Plate. Description: Offered here is a scarce and beautiful circa 1840 shoulder belt plate of the historic Boston Light Infantry.

Originally organized in 1786 as "The Independent Light Infantry, " they adopted the name "Boston Light Infantry" in 1798 and earned the nickname "Tigers" in 1822. The BLI was a prestigious militia unit in Boston, known for its distinctive black coats, white cross-belts, and bearskin hats. They served for years in the 1st Regiment Light Infantry Massachusetts Volunteer Militia and played an important role at the start of the Civil War by garrisoning Fort Warren in Boston Harbor, where members composed the famous war song John Brown's Body.

This plate measures about 3 1/2" by 4 1/2". It features a striking high-relief brass tiger's head, the letters "BLI" above, and "1798" below.

Like the example shown in Plate 731 of. Duncan Campbell, this piece has its original large pin on the back and solder marks from where hooks were once attached. Please look at all photos for the best description of condition and details. A true piece of Boston militia history!


Scarce Early 1840's Boston Light Infantry Shoulder Belt Plate