P1857 CARTRIDGE BOX - DINGEE

P1857 Cartridge Box

The pattern 1857 cartridge box was the first pattern developed for the new caliber 58.  It is similar to the 1839 69 caliber round ball box but with waist belt loops added.  The waist belt loops are sewn on the body of the box.  In 1861 the pattern was modified by adding rivets to the waist belt loops.  The pattern 1857 box was in use for only a short time and issued in great numbers at the start of the war.  Their survival rate is low.  

This example is a solid one.  The Brass US plate is present. The stitching is tight, both belt loops are present as are the tins.  The latch tab was broken at the finial hole.  The piece of latch tab is present inside the implement pouch.  The inner flap has a firm name which is faint and hard to read.  I have studied it under several light conditions and believe the name to be H A DINGEE.  I can see about half of the letters, including the EE at the end.  Also the belt loops are wide, which indicates a New York Arsenal contract.  The leather has evidence of flaking. But the leather is stable.