U.S. Army Regulation M1853/55 Non-Rigid Knapsack,

made of black painted canvas cotton cloth rendered "waterproof" (oilcloth) with all leather straps, iron buckles and brass hardware present. By all period accounts the most commonly issued type of field pack capable of carrying 40 to 50 pounds of personal kit and usually "thrown away" after the first hard march as too heavy and uncomfortable. This regulation pattern consisting of two bags or compartments, a front section that folded into a partial envelope and rear section made of four triangular flaps that buckled together, joined by a top strip with two sewn leather loops for the blanket straps. Knapsack was fitted with 2" wide leather shoulder straps that terminated with brass attachment points allowing for connection to the armpit and adjustable cross (breast) straps. Found in an infinite number of variations including state models and examples made for the militia, sometimes with stenciled unit designation. This lot and the next two appear to be un-issued, the damage and wear more attributable to the ravages of time than actual service use. Condition: Leather still somewhat supple with surface cracks, minor wear to finish of oilcloth, VG.