Possibly struck “US” Belt Plate, dug years ago in Orange, Virginia

This is a unique relic being offered, it is the remains of a Union soldier’s “US” Belt Plate. What happened to this piece is really a mystery, but obviously it experienced some kind of impact to end up in this condition. The plate has the arrow hooks and exposes the complete attachment which is under the lead. It was recovered many years ago at a campsite in Orange, Virginia.

The Town of Orange was a strategically important location during the Civil War. Just north of town, the Rapidan River was effectively the northern border of the Confederacy from March 1862 to May 1864. Consequently, the area witnessed countless troop movements, patrols, skirmishes, and encampments.

In addition, the Town of Orange served as General Robert E. Lee's headquarters during that time. In fact, General Lee worshipped at the St. Thomas Episcopal Church on Caroline Street, which still stands today. This church is also significant because it served as a hospital for Confederate wounded after the Battle of Chancellorsville, and the Battle of the Wilderness.

This is one of those unusual relics that you seldom see. It would make a great companion piece to go along with a complete belt plate to show how they were manufactured. It comes in the glass top display case pictured.