Civil War Model 1858 smoothside-pattern tin canteen. Item is similar to those issued to Union troops in the field during the conflict. The body consists of two circular sections of pressed-tin, formed in an oblate spheroid pattern and soldered together at the rim. Fluid capacity of the canteen was three pints and its liquid contents were kept cool by means of a damp or wet wool cover.

This specimen exhibits a woven greenish-brown wool cover that is in fair condition with scattered small holes. Both sides of the cover are embroidered. One side has crosshatched stitching in red around the edge with a blooming flower at center done in white and brown thread. The opposite side has white crosshatched stitching around the edge with a small flower at top and the following lettering at center “W.R.N. /CO.E / F.M.L.A.” This lettering stands for “WILLIAM R. NEWMAN, CO. E, FIRST MICHIGAN LIGHT ARTILLERY.” Despite surface dirt and some missing thread the letters are all readable.

The original sling, cork stopper and iron pull ring are missing as are all three metal sling keepers. Pewter spout is mostly covered and cannot be checked for a maker’s mark. Canteen body is in good condition with a minor dent in each side.

William R. Newman was 41 years old when he enlisted as a Private in Battery E, 1^st Michigan Light Artillery. He served with the battery throughout the war reenlisting at Nashville in February of 1864 and was eventually mustered out at Jackson, Mississippi on July 30, 1865.

The battery saw action at Shiloh, a raid into Alabama in 1864 and the battle of Nashville also in 1864.

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