Inscribed Pattern 1861 Cartridge Box, Joseph J. Giles, 5th Massachusetts Infantry / SOLD

Inscribed Pattern 1861 Cartridge Box, Joseph J. Giles, 5th Massachusetts Infantry - Inventory Number: LEA 313 / SOLD

Identified early War pattern 1861 cartridge box for the .58 caliber Minie ball. The outer flap is in very good condition with some light crazing, and still retains the original US box plate with a rich uncleaned patina and gilt finish in recessed areas. The exterior closure flap, rear belt loops, implement pouch, tins, and roller buckles are all present and complete. The inside of the flap has the large, stylized inscription “Jos’ J. Giles Co.I”. Joseph James Giles enlisted as a private in the 5th Massachusetts Infantry in May 1861 and mustered out on July 31. It is probable that he carried this cartridge box at the Battle of Bull Run, the only engagement that he participated in with the 5th. In August 1862, Giles accepted a commission as a 1st lieutenant in the 39th Massachusetts Infantry and was discharged for disability in August 1864. The cartridge box retains a portion of the original sting with the eagle breast plate. A wonderful early-war cartridge box with an exceptional large period ink identification. 

 Joseph James Giles - Residence Somerville MA; a 19-year-old Painter. Enlisted on 4/19/1861 at Somerville, MA as a Private. On 5/1/1861 he mustered into "I" Co. MA 5th Infantry. He was Mustered Out on 7/31/1861 at Boston, MA. On 8/15/1862 he was commissioned into "E" Co. MA 39th Infantry. He was discharged for disability on 8/23/1864 at Washington, DC. Promotions: 1st Lieut 8/15/1862 (As of Co. E 39th MA Inf). Other Information: Born 3/24/1842 in Somerville, MA Member of GAR Post # 132 (Charles Chipman) in Sandwich, MA.  Held GAR Offices: Post Commander # 132.  After the War he lived in Somerville, MA.

FIFTH REGIMENT MASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEER MILITIA (INFANTRY) THREE MONTHS

     The 5th Regt. Mass. Vol. Mill, " Minute Men," was ordered to report for active duty and to proceed to the city of Washington by Special Order No. 35, issued by the Adjutant General of Massachusetts, April 19, 1861.  To the five companies of the 5th Regt. were added four from the 7th Regt. and one from the 1st Regt., thus making up a full regiment of ten companies.  On Sunday, April 21, the 5th entrained for Washington, where on May 1, its members were mustered into the service of the United States.  For nearly four weeks it remained in the city of Washington, then on May 25 it was transferred to the Virginia shore, where it remained in camp near Alexandria until it marched toward Bull Run, forming a part of Franklin's brigade, Heintzelman's division, of McDowell's army.  It was one of the three Massachusetts regiments engaged in the battle of Bull Run, July 21, 1861, where it lost nine killed, two wounded, and twenty-three prisoners.  After this engagement the regiment remained in Washington until the latter part of the month when it was sent back to Boston where it was mustered out of the service July 31.

Inventory Number: LEA 313 / SOLD