This Pattern 1839 cartridge box plate, regulation through the Civil War, was recovered at Barlow’s Knoll by Kenny Bream, a well-known Gettysburg resident and relic hunter from the 1960s through the 1990s, some of whose finds are pictured in Gettysburg Battlefield Relics & Souvenirs. This is the standard configuration of the plate- die-stamped rolled brass, with a lead-solder filled back to add weight and rigidity, and secure an iron wire bent to form two loops to secure it to the flap of a cartridge box- both as an ornament and for the practical purpose of keeping the flap down if the soldier forgot to latch it in the heat of action.

The face shows as a mix of muted lime-green mixed with gray and showing some dark brown to the left of the “U” and along the left edge of the “S” from the corrosion of the iron wire inside. The edge shows some shallow losses around the left edge, mainly at the 11, 7, and 8 o’clock positions. The lead fill is in place on the reverse with some small losses on corresponding parts of the edge, otherwise showing only minor corrosion with a mix of gray and white, but light and dark brown stains from the iron wire near where the bases of the loops once were.

Locally known as Blocher’s Knoll, that position was occupied by Francis Barlow of the 11^th Corps on July 1, placing his division in a relatively unsupported advanced position, overextended, with open flanks and apparently unaware of Early’s Confederate division advancing down the Harrisburg Road on his right. His troops and those sent to his aid were routed, his division amassing more than 50% casualties in the battle, most on this first day. Barlow himself was wounded. There was, indeed, some brave and stubborn fighting by Union troops. Artillery Lieutenant Bayard Wilkeson is remembered for his coolness under fire, even after his own mortal wounding. Barlow was best remembered at Gettysburg for the romantic tale of his encounter with Confederate General Gordon on the field and their chance encounter years later.

This is a nice Gettysburg relic with a tight provenance to the battlefield and a local relic hunter.  [sr][ph:L]

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