I like GAR/UCV memorabilia.
I collect the various Ladder Badges, pins, ribbons and medals, and the like.
I've even written about it in 'North-South Trader's Civil War' magazine - with a smattering of information here, as well - and have a couple of articles currently in the hopper - expanding on them as I find interesting things.
Consequently, I keep my eyes open for all manner of Veteran's memorabilia, since other folks also seem to find it interesting, and a piece or two can add to your Impression, since pretty much all men of the time had served, and even the women had their patriotic organizarions as well - with many variations on the theme of commemorating those sacrifices made by their families.
The other day - something surfaced...
Most Veteran's memorabilia consists of a badge or medal or other souvenir, and they're fairly common - especially around the larger cities that held Conventions.
This was different - it actually has a post-convention use beyond being worn at a local Post meeting.
It's a pocket flask...
One of the unifying phrases of the time was 'We Drank From the Same Canteen' - signifying the pure 'humanity' of soldiery.
This became even more evocative after the War, as those men aged, and feelings mellowed, and the souvenir sellers/sutlers exploited this with celluliod pins and buttons - but the Philadelphia firm of 'A.Ledig & Son' produced a truly 'usable' souvenir in the shape of an issue canteen - complete with correctly-made cork stopper and chain.
Helluva deal, when you think of it - a canteen whose contents could be shared with compatriots that could also be used as a personal flask later on, and in a time when a large portion of men enjoyed a 'wee taste of the crayture' - it was both handy to own and signified wartime service at the same time.
It's complete - made of pewter - with a tasseled Red,White and Blue braided cord that serves as the 'strap', and the boss on its center features an intertwined 'GAR' in brass.
It measures 4 1/2" across and is about 1 1/4" wide at the center.
Whether is was sold 'filled' is anyone's guess - though no doubt a purveyor of spirits was nearby - small funnel at the ready.
Keep your eyes open - treasures abound...
Vaya,
Scouts Out!