This is a Model 1808 cartridge box for a .69 caliber musket from the War of 1812 period. There is no maker mark on the box. The cartridge box measures 8 1/2" wide, 5" tall and 2 1/2" deep. The flap is 9 1/2" wide and 7 1/2" tall. An ornate brass floral decoration is pinned to the center of the flap. There is a small amount of crazing, and some loss of color on the edges and top of the flap. The leather closure tab is sewn on and is broken. The good news there is that when the wooden block and tin insert was removed the original piece of the closure tab was found! This could be repaired if desired by the new owner. The round iron finial is straight and tight to the box. Both roller buckles for the shoulder strap are missing, and have been for a long time. That point leads to the soldier modification of using the leather strap used with the sling on the back of the box to fashion belt loops! This style of cartridge box was designed to be worn over the shoulder. This one has been modified to been worn on the soldiers waist belt by stitching two belt loops onto the back of the box, each one reinforced with an iron pin. The inner flap of the box pulls outwards to provide access to the two section tin insert, used to carry extra flints, gun tools, cartridges, etc. The wooden block is drilled to accept twenty six .69 caliber paper cartridges. The stitching is strong and unbroken throughout the box. This is a fine example of a Model 1808 cartridge box that would have been used during the War of 1812.

Item # AA1970