October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
This important canteen is accompanied by a letter signed by Robert J. M. Matteson of Bennington, Vermont and dated October 2008. He states that this canteen was carried at the Battle of Bennington on August 16, 1777. A handwritten note states that it hung for many years in North Shaftsbury, Vermont and was in the family of Peleg A. Matteson, owners of the Matteson Tavern, for 150 years. The handwritten letter also states that it was once owned by the Bennington Museum. The large canteen measures about 10" in diameter and nearly 6" in depth. The cheesebox construction is reinforced by two hand forged iron bands of 1-1/2", both with an iron loop at the top for carrying strap attachment. Top slat has a raised portion around the spout opening. The front of the canteen is inscribed neatly in large block letters "AW / 1774". The canteen retains a period red-painted surface. CONDITION: Retains about 90% of original paint with some crazing, minor chipping, and wear. Bands retain a heavy brown patina. Identified and dated Revolutionary War canteens, especially those with provenance, are rarely encountered.