Civil War “Carpet Bag” / SOLD
Handsome, original, mid-nineteenth century traveling handbag or luggage case often referred to as a ‘carpetbag.’ During the Reconstruction Era after the Civil War, Northerners who ventured South in search of profit and political opportunity carried their personal goods and belongings in carpetbags and were derisively called carpetbaggers by the locals.
Constructed of colorful pieces of rug carpeting with a pleasing floral design, the bag appears to be the hooked-rug type of construction. The lockable, carry handbag has a flap and button closure with a corded rug handle. When closed, the bag measures 11” long x 14” wide. Entire bag interior is lined with a cotton material. Lining is in good overall condition, a separate pocket is lined with a sky blue material. Handle has been covered in a patterned wool cloth. Some distress and tears on handle material and flap.
Inventory Number: PER 325 / Sold