Revolutionary War Rundlet, as in museum, ca. 1750 – 1785

Recently, I was fortunate enough to acquire an extensive collection of canteens, rundlets, and flasks. They span a significant period dating from the early 1700s through the Civil War. Among these items are several notable Revolutionary War officers’ “Rum Rundlets.”

Being offered is a Revolutionary War wooden rundlet with the original hand-carved stopper. It is lathe-turned maple wood with 6 incised bands on one side and 6 on the other. It measures 4 ½” x 3 ½” x 3 ¼”. Because of the quality and workmanship, no doubt it belonged to a well-to-do officer.

The rum rundlets used by officers during the Revolutionary War are particularly unique. Unlike the more common, larger canteens, these officer rundlets were much smaller in size and often resembled miniature canteens. Their compact design set them apart from the more prominent canteens used by the enlisted men.

Revolutionary War officers drank rum, just as soldiers and officers across the class spectrum did. It was a popular and readily available drink that was sometimes given as a ration, used to boost morale, and even consumed in mixed drinks like the "flip" – a hot, frothy cocktail made with rum or brandy, and sweetener like molasses or sugar.

George Washington, for instance, saw Rum as an important morale booster for his troops. Soldiers often received daily rations of alcohol, which was usually rum, though they were supposed to mix it with water to prevent getting intoxicated.

In my book “The Civil War Canteen – Third Edition”, I show a couple of these early rundlets (see pictures). This rundlet would have been carried in the officer’s haversack. I have a few of these Rum Rundlets in my personal collection, but no comparison to the quality and beauty of this example.

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.