Excavated 2nd Pattern Model 1874 Buckle for the Palmer Brace System
Item #: AA3712
Click on an image to enlarge
This is an excavated 2nd Pattern Model 1874 belt plate recovered at Ft. Reno, Oklahoma. This belt plate was designed to be used with a new "brace system" being developed to be used by the Infantry to carry accoutrements and equipment. A new system was also designed for the Cavalry branch. In February, 1872 a board convened to determine the best system being tested. It was quickly determined that the brace system was more of a hindrance than a help for the Cavalry. However, the Chief of Ordnance, Alexander Dyer, was determined to test the new experimental Cavalry brace system. These new accoutrements consisted of a new saber belt, with provisions to connect the leather suspenders to, and the solid cast rectangular US belt plate. Worn on the belt was a cartridge box for carbine ammunition, newly designed flap holster with swivel mount and the standard cap box. The cap box was now used to carry revolver ammunition. The 1855 pattern carbine sling completed the set. The new waist belt was designed as part of the brace system. It was made of black bridle leather 1 7/8" wide, with a cast brass loop and riveted to the left end of the belt. To the other side of this loop was riveted a piece of leather about 1" wide, folded on itself. To this piece of leather a clasp of cast brass was attached for the belt plate. The right end of the belt was doubled under and fitted with a brass wire hook that mated to a series of punched holes used to adjust the length of the belt. The belt buckle itself carried the other loop used to attach the brace system in the front of the soldier. This was intended to help distribute the weight of the equipment carried by the soldier. The new belt plate used with this system was solid cast brass, rectangular in shape. It measured 2 1/8" high and 3 1/4" wide. It was approximately 1/8" thick and had a slight curve to help conform to the soldiers body. The right side was slotted to receive the belt. The raised US letters were encompassed in an oval border. A 1/2" wide tongue was cast integrally on the back of the plate. This beautiful brass buckle has taken on a chocolate brown patina. Ft Reno was established as a temporary camp in July of 1874. It became a permanent installation on 15 July, 1874. It remained in service until 1949, when it was closed as a military installation and turned over to the US Department of Agriculture. If you collect Indian Wars items, this rare piece would definitely compliment it!
Shipping Weight:
1 lb
Item # AA3712
Your Price $250.00 USD
We are currently not accepting on-line orders. If you see something you would like give us a call.