Original Civil War Ballot Box with clay balls (SOLD,F)

This is a rare item being offered, it is a Civil War Ballot Box. The box measures approximately 9” x 5” x 4”, not counting the handle which extends another 4”. It has a sliding wood top, and the interior has a partition with a groove on top to lift and slide a ball under it unseen to the other side. Inside are 6 light color clay balls and 1 dark ball.

Early in the Civil War, many State Regiments elected their own officers and non-commissioned officers. Soldiers voted by using the balls in the ballot box. The ballot box could also be used for other ordinary duties around camp, such as cleanups and picket duty.

In my book “The Civil War Soldier – His Personal Items”, I have a similar identified ballot box (see pictures). A period brass plaque on the side of that box states “Co. A / 8th Ms. Vol. Inf.”, this being the 8th Massachusetts Infantry.

Overall, this is a very nice solid example, only showing the signs of typical use. These boxes make a great addition to a Civil War display, and always generate a lot of interest.