Rare B. Kittredge & Co. Marked Belt – Cincinnati, Ohio

Description

Rare B. Kittredge & Co. Marked Belt – Cincinnati, Ohio

Circa 1861

A seldom-seen Civil War–period leather belt marked by the famous Western outfitter B. Kittredge & Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio. This company was one of the best-known arms dealers and military outfitters in the early war years, supplying revolvers, swords, and accoutrements throughout the Western Theater.

 

The belt is clearly stamped:

“B. KITTR… CINTI, O.”
(B. Kittredge, Cincinnati, Ohio)

Constructed of thick, black leather, this example shows honest, battlefield-era wear with flexing, dryness, and surface losses consistent with age. The original horseshoe-type buckle loop and iron D-ring remain intact. Stitching survives in several areas, with portions worn through from service use and time.

 

Benjamin Kittredge was among the most prominent gun dealers and military outfitters in the Midwest. His firm distributed a wide array of military equipment—including Colt and Remington revolvers—and famously coined the name “Army Model” for Colt’s .44 caliber revolvers. His stamped leather goods are especially prized today due to their low survival rate.

 

Kittredge-marked gear is extremely scarce. His belts were purchased privately by volunteer soldiers or issued through state depots early in the war. Surviving examples—especially with readable stamps—are rarely offered on the market.

 

A Rare, Hard-to-Find Ohio-Marked Civil War Belt. Perfect for collectors of Western Theater material, identified makers, and early-war accoutrements.

 

Inventory Number: LEA 476