During the Civil War, theoretically, each field cannon would have a caisson which would accompany the limber and carriage. The caisson had two ammunition chests, tools and an extra wheel. Survival of orig caissons is very small much more rare than orig carriages which are also extremely rare as 150 year old wood does not hold up very well that rarely had indoor storage. The caisson here is stamped on top of the trail "CONN 1862" in 5" panel. We know of no other similar marked caissons. All wood in caisson is orig as is wood in the attached extra wheel, though there is wood restoration to the regulation 57" wheels. All hardware is orig. Both limber chests are orig, with orig copper tops, central dividers internally and some compartment pieces for 3" rifled projectiles. Also, accompanying this caisson are period axe & pick, handspike and a shovel. The shovel is interesting in that it appears to have a bullet hole through the spade. This is a rare display item, few museums possess. It would be interesting to know which Connecticut light artillery unit originally used this rare survivor. SIZE: CONDITION: Wood and iron are painted, marine epoxy was used for restoration of the orig wood in places, iron patina. We wouldn't recommend using this in the field, but it seems sound and solid for display. 50745-1 JS (20,000-30,000)