December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2024
Body: 5 ¾ H x 8 ½ L x 2 5/8 in. W. Rare and complete example of a British pouch from the late 18th century, a pattern of a form known to have been during the Revolutionary War (another example with an associated 38th Regiment of Foot waistbelt was lost or captured following Lexington and Concord expedition). This form of “pouch” or box, with wooden block drilled to accommodate 26 cartridges, was the most successful design of the four patterns then in use by British infantry regiments and eventually replaced the others, continuing in service into the early Napoleonic period. Beneath the wooden block is a tinned-iron tray, divided into two compartments for additional rounds and a leather implement pocket is sewn to the front of the pouch body. The thick, flap leather is flesh-side out, typical of British make, allowing it to be “stuffed” with a composition of beeswax, lampblack, tallow and turpentine that became known as “blackball” (from its being carried by soldiers in that form to renew such waterproofing, as needed). On the underside of the sewn body are two tinned-iron buckles for securing the shoulder belt to the pouch (one now separated) and the leather button closure for securing the flap. Centered below the belt keeper on the reverse of the pouch is a buff leather tab to secure the pouch to the hip button of the soldier’s uniform coat, thereby preventing the pouch from sliding forward while performing the manual exercise or firings. The pouch survives with its whitened, buff leather belt, approximately 2 1/4 inches wide.