Union “US” Cartridge box plate, recovered at Alpine Station, WV

Being offered is this US cartridge box plate, which was dug in Alpine Station, WV. The face has some slight loss on the rim, and the back has most of the remaining lead and signs of rust marks where the attachment hooks were.

There was some fighting in Alpine Station near Hancock/Great Cacapon (see map). It was known for its strategic importance to the B&O Railroad and Potomac River, with some activity like Barker's Chicago Dragoons in 1862.  This area was overshadowed by major battles like Droop Mountain (last major battle) or Rich Mountain in WV.  But it was a strategic point for troop movements and defense during the war, particularly in the early stages.

The plate is slightly concave, but the “US” really stands out – it also has a great untouched patina, and solid. There are very few relics coming from Alpine Station, and this is the first one I had. It comes in the glass top display case pictured.