Name/Title
BoxEntry/Object ID
2023.5.1Description
Model 1874 Dyer Cavalry Carbine Cartridge Box - Made of bridle leather, the front flap features a strong embossed “US” within an oval. There is a brass escutcheon on the closing tab. Made and marked “Benicia Arsenal” on the back. Two narrow belt loops are stitched and riveted on the back. These belt loops are stamped with inspector’s initials. The inner pouch has a pointy brass finial on the bottom to accept the closing tab of the outer flap and a flat brass “button” at the top to close an implement sleeve. This pattern is lined with a reddish wool fleece, to keep .45-70 cartridges from rattling about, and to keep them from developing verdigris, a common occurrence when cartridges were held in leather loops. The capacity was supposedly 40 rounds, but that was considerably more than was carried in these pouches.
