Worman & Ely Mess Set / SOLD

Worman & Ely Mess Set - Inventory Number: CAM 299 / SOLD

The Worman and Ely patent mess set was one of the big sellers to Civil War volunteers going into the field. In the early years of the war mess gear was supplied by the various states to their volunteers so there was a bit of hodge-podge of types. Inventors stepped forward as well with some new gadgets that seemed to promise convenience and ease of use. The Worman and Ely system used the usual three pieces of mess gear, a fork, knife and spoon, but put a slot in the handle of the spoon to enable the fork and knife to slide in and lock one another in place by friction. The handles of the fork and knife were also hollow to reduce weight. This is a good example with all three pieces and the spoon and knife showing the patent stamp: "Worman & Ely / Phil'a / Feb 4, 1862" This set was actually used and the initials G.W.B. are lightly incised twice, would make a great display set. A very scarce example and great Civil War personal item.

Inventory Number: CAM 299 / SOLD