Description
This fine leather accoutrement was sold several years ago by Shiloh Relics (Raphael Eledge) but it is unknown where he purchased it. It retains the original sling in fine condition and the box is relatively tight and crisp and complete with the lower closure finial (which is made of lead instead of brass as with Federal boxes).
The front cover is deeply inscribed “A.W. Smith” and below that (a bit too weak to read)is a number with “2” in it. Below that is a pretty clear “VA”—Mr. Smith was a bit dyslectic and several of his letters are reversed, but readable. The box is fitted with original tins but they are for a Union box and I doubt they were used with it as they are a bit too large—likely added at some point in time to help retain the box form.
Original Confederate boxes like this are incredibly rare—the lined perimeter of the shoulder strap is typical of Richmond Arsenal made items as there is an incised groove on each side. This box is BARGAIN PRICED and with a little more digging on his records, more information can likely be discovered. A quick online search noted only two Virginia soldiers with the names of A.W. Smith and the digit “2” in the regiment—but it is not guaranteed it is eithers as there may be more soldiers with that middle initial that didn’t use their middle name. The positive: a rare complete VIRGINIA Confederate cartridge box with sling. The more positive, a LIKELY identification—but I’d keep looking! Here’s the two I found in a few minutes via an online search database:
Armistead W. Smith
Residence was not listed; Enlisted as a Private (date unknown). He also had service in: “B” Co. VA 22nd Battn Infantry
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Asa W. Smith
Residence Kanawha County WV; 31 years old.Enlisted on 9/15/1862 at Charleston, WV as a Private.
On 9/15/1862 he mustered into “A” Co. VA 22nd Infantry (date and method of discharge not given)
He was listed as:
* Absent, wounded 12/31/1863 (place not stated)
* On rolls 4/30/1864 (place not stated)
* POW 4/30/1865 Staunton, VA (Paroled)
He was described at enlistment as: 5′ 9.0″, fair complexion, hazel eyes, fair hair
