Carved Confederate Wood Drum Canteen Lieut. J.H. Walker
Carved Confederate Wood Drum Canteen Lieut. J.H. Walker – 1864 - Inventory Number: CON 560
Captured and carried by James H. Walker 81st Pennsylvania
A handsome and beautifully carved example of a Confederate wooden drum canteen.
As with most wood drum canteens produced during the war, this circular specimen appears to be made of cedar or cherry wood and measures approximately 7” in diameter by 2¼” wide. The classic example of a canteen carried by Southern soldiers during the Civil War, this ‘Johnny’ canteen is simple, well constructed, and retains its original woven cloth sling. The canteen has no spout and has a smaller hole that was added in the field to hold the stopper device.
The face is carved on large ornate script “Lieut. J. H. Walker - 1864” the other side bears the confederate soldiers initials J.B. inscribed with stone other light intelligable lettering.
Two circular iron bands, each about 1/4” wide, encompass the canteen’s outer edges and serve as clamps with each band overlapped and held in place with a single small tack. Equal distance apart on the exterior width of this canteen are three, narrow, iron sling loops that wrap are tacked to the circular iron bands. Loops secure a regulation cotton sling with forged roller buckle. The sling is in overall fine condition.
This is a most attractive wooden drum canteen with an acquired mellow dark cherry coloring. Ann excellent opportunity to own an original carved Confederate canteen with original sling!
Based on the date of 1864 and the rank of Lieutenant, the regiment would have been engaged at the battles of Franklin, Spotsylvania Court House, or Cold Harbor where this canteen is likely from based on the fierce fighting they were engaged in.
James H. Walker
Residence was not listed.
Enlisted on 9/20/1861 as a Sergeant.
On 9/20/1861, he mustered into "E" Co. Pennsylvania
81st Infantry. Served gallantly throughout the was including Antietam and Gettysburg. He was discharged on 2/27/1865
Promotions:
1st Lieut 3/24/1864
Adjutant 4/23/1864
Capt 10/5/1864 (As of Co. B)
Intra-regimental company transfers - 4/23/1864 from Company “E” to Field & Staff. 10/5/1864 from Field & Staff to Company “B”
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