These are all painted canvas with leather straps and as normally used on officer’s grade equipment brass buckles. Officer’s were not issued equipment, instead they had to purchase their own. There were military goods dealers in most cities and of course sutlers carried officer’s items in the field and on military posts. Officer’s haversacks were made in a variety of ways as there was no standard nor regulation, each maker made what he thought would sell. Like all haversacks they had utility value after the war and were used up and so today are quite rare. I have had the chance to look at many examples held in private collections and the very few in museums and based these upon design elements of the originals. I don’t copy any one haversack as a cookie cutter reproduction of what might have been the only one made that exact way, it is just as wrong as making one out of an old nylon rucksack. These are based upon over 30 years of collecting, researching and making historical reproductions.
The sizes given are the width across the middle, some are pear shaped so are wider below and more narrow above. Height at the center of the bag and depth at the bottom corner as the gusset is also tapered on some. This is not an exact size but close enough, flap sizes are not given so you have to guess there. The strap has adjustment so it fits most everybody. Most have three inner pockets and two pockets on the front.
Officer's haversacks are designed to be worn on the right hip rather than the left like an enlisted haversack. Enlisted men need to keep their haversack out of the way of their cartridge box, officers need to keep theirs from getting tangled up with their sword. There is of course no correct side it is just custom and preference.
New ones are being made and will be posted when ready.
3-5 SOLD
I have not made one of these in over ten years, a rare opportunity to get a standout item that you won’t see on every Tom, Dick or Harry. Much smaller than the others but still large enough to carry your lunch, notebook and hand towel (as an officer you need all three, you can only hope that your servant is back in camp cooking supper). This is a more advanced level item not made for those just starting out. Would also work well as a Principle Musician's music pouch.
3/4 “ wide Chestnut English bridle leather shoulder strap further adds to the visual appeal.
Raised design on flap
Two inner pockets
Approximately:
8” wide
9.5” tall
3” deep at base
You missed your chance on this one, it may well be another 10 years before I make another one like it.
8-1 SOLD
No decoration on flap, iron roller buckles, chestnut English bridle leather, this would be very good for but not limited to a Confederate officer’s impression or display.
Approximately:
11” wide
9” tall
4” deep at base
Sold
8-2 SOLD
Embossed flap, brass buckles and black leather straps, very nice embossing makes this a stand out haversack.
Approximately:
11” wide
9” tall
3 1/2” deep at base
sold
8-3 Sold
Embossed flap, brass buckles and black leather straps very sharp embossing should hold detail for some time.
Approximately:
11 1/2” wide
10” tall
3 1/2” deep at base
Sold
8-4 Sold
Stitched design on flap, very unusual tinned brass buckles, this is not an entry level item. Tinned brass is not often seen and will be mistaken for incorrect plated buckles at a distance, built for the confident historian.
Approximately:
11 1/2” tall
10” wide
4 1/2” deep at base
8-5
Painted shield on flap for a flashy look, brass buckles and black leather straps. Very fancy for the officer that likes the dandy look.
