U.S. Pattern 1808 Cartridge Box

The 1808 pattern cartridge box carries a block drilled for 26 rounds of .69 caliber
ammunition arranged 9-8-9, under which is a shallow tinned iron implement tray
capable of holding extra rounds, flints, cleaning rags, gun tools, etc. This tray has an
open front and can be accessed though a billows pocket on the face of the box.
This example has a scalloped front measuring about 9 inches across and about 7
inches down the top from the curved front edge to the bottom of the center point.
The box is a tad under 9 inches across the top edge along the block, which itself is
about 8 ½ inches wide and 2 ¼ front to back. The latch tab is in place, but the finial
button for it on the bottom of the box is gone. The bottom tray is in place. We have
not tried to remove the block. The tray flap can be opened. The side billows panels
are in place. We have not tried to open it all the way. The sides of the box have the
correct tombstone configuration. The side ears are present on the flap. That on the
right is firmly attached. The one on the left is all there, but is missing some of the
stitching at the front and has pushed out slightly. There is an animal chew on the
edge of the flap starting where the ear would be sewn at the front. This is an curved
section about 2 inches at its base along the left edge of the box and extending inward
about 1 ¾ inches at its greatest length. This could be repaired, but we have left it as
found. When fully closed the upper point of the missing section would be close to
the upper edge of the block. We have not tried to force the top fully closed.
The box was altered during its service life for use on a waistbelt. The buckles on the
bottom were removed and the horizontal retaining strap for the ends of the
shoulder belt was taken off and two vertical belt loops sewn on its place. These were
flat stitched to the back of the box at the top and inlet in the bottom seam. The right
one is present. Only the very top and bottom of the left one remain.
The box is untouched and no preservative or dressing has been applied. The finish is
good, showing some areas of abrasion at lower right and left and at missing section.
This is a good, honest War of 1812 cartridge box worthy of some conservation and
small repair.