US Civil War Cap Pouch, S.H.Young, 1839 Pattern Cartridge Box Plate

Original period manufacture. Black leather Civil War era percussion cap box, maker marked on the inner flap S.H.YOUNG of Newark N.J. The wool remains intact, the nipple pick is present, both of the belt loops are sound. Mounted to the outer flap a long time ago, is an original 1839 pattern, lead-filled, US brass oval. It's two mounting loops pass through the flap leather, being secured by two small black leather wedges. In my opinion, this may be an example of old surplus companies, Bannerman's for instance, gilding the lily in order to make an item or items, more attractive for sale. Bannerman's, Stokes Kirk and others, had enormous quantities of Civil War material in their warehouses, so by any means necessary, they merchandised inventory. On the other hand, the US Army did modify cap pouches for use as pistol ammunition pouches, removing the wool and embossing the flap with a US oval. In addition, soldiers would also go to lengths to dress up and personalize their equipment so there we are, looking through a glass darkly. Whatever the case, it's a nice set, the pouch is quite sound, with a pleasing brass patina to the box plate.