Confederate Cedar Wood Drum Canteen Identified “J.H.S.” with Early Museum Label – Captured at Fort Arkansas 

Description

Confederate Cedar Wood Drum Canteen Identified “J.H.S.” with Early Museum Label – Captured at Fort Arkansas 

 

A scarce and highly desirable Confederate cedar wood drum canteen, bearing the period-carved initials “J.H.S.” prominently on the face, and accompanied by an early typed museum label reading: “Rebellion relic. A Texan canteen captured at Fort Arkansas.” This attribution strongly points to Confederate service in the Trans-Mississippi Theater, most likely connected to the fighting at Arkansas Post (Fort Hindman) in January 1863—an engagement involving a notable presence of Texas troops.

 

Texas units engaged at Arkansas Post included elements of the 10th Texas Infantry, 15th Texas Infantry, and other attached commands. The inscribed initials “J.H.S.” present strong potential for further identification through regimental rosters and prisoner of war records, as many Confederates captured at Arkansas Post were documented in detail.

 

The canteen itself is a classic Southern-made example, constructed of cedar wood with a rich, untouched patina and secured by iron bands. The original leather sling remains complete—an increasingly rare feature—as does the original stopper. These survival details significantly enhance both desirability and value.

 

The early museum label adds an important layer of provenance, indicating this piece was preserved and identified relatively close to the period of use. Such labels are highly prized, particularly when they reference both geographic origin and troop association.

 

An outstanding Confederate canteen combining Texas attribution, early provenance, complete accoutrements, and strong research potential—an exceptional and display-worthy example of Trans-Mississippi material culture.

 

Inventory Number: CON 676