Civil War–Era Carved Wooden Tobacco Pipe

Civil War–Era Carved Wooden Tobacco Pipe - Inventory Number: MIS 312

Briar Stem and Horn Mouthpiece

A well-used and highly personal Civil War soldier’s tobacco pipe, featuring a finely hand-carved wooden bowl with raised initials “E.D.” in relief. The initials are deeply cut with textured cross-hatching, giving a bold three-dimensional appearance. The interior of the bowl is heavily charred from period use, attesting to long service in the field. The pipe retains its elongated briar stem with a textured finish, leading to its original horn mouthpiece, which exhibits clear tooth marks from extensive use. The bowl shows age-appropriate handling wear along with a stable age crack at the rim. Overall length approx. 10 ¼”. Such pipes were cherished by soldiers during long marches and encampments, serving as both comfort and a canvas for personalization. The presence of the carved initials suggests ownership by a soldier “E.D.,” whose identity may be researchable through regimental rosters. A well-preserved and personalized example of a Civil War soldier’s pipe, combining both utility and folk-art character.

Inventory Number: MIS 312