Early “Cheesebox” canteen, original milk-red paint

This is another great early canteen being offered. It is a “Cheesebox” style canteen, possibly maple, with a diameter of 6 1/2” and 2 3/4” wide. It has most of the original old milk-red paint remaining along with the three leather sling loops.

The term “Cheesebox” is NOT a period term, but one added over the years because of its appearance. This style of Three Piece Wood Canteen was used by American troops from the 2nd half of the 18th Century to the first half of the 19th Century. They are often referred to as War of 1812 canteens but is not always the case.

I show three similar cheesebox canteens which were dated and identified to soldiers in the Revolutionary War (see pictures). There are even examples of those that were brought from home by soldiers in the Civil War.

Although existing canteens with a given provenance suggest that this style of Canteen was used primarily by Militia troops from the Northern Colonies, particularly New England, their use by other troops cannot be definitively ruled out.

Also, in my book “The Civil War Canteen – Third Edition”, I show some of these canteens (see pictures). It is in nice condition, only showing the signs expected for its age. This would make a nice addition to just about any early military collection.