Maker mark: [inner flap] "Baker/ N.Y./ McKenney". Smaller size box measuring 7.25" in length, 5.5" in height, 1.875" in width, with interlocking brass letters ["HMA" in cursive script] measuring 1.25" in height, fastened on outer front flap.

Box leather has been tarred, and remains in good condition with lights scraping across the front flap, with some flaking at the extremities. Finial strap broken off at lower edge of front flap. Rear and side stitching solid. Rear sling strap is stiff, and lower sling attachment buttons are missing. HMA lettering exhibits light tarnish. Else VG.

The Hillsborough Military Academy was founded January 1859, and closed for a few brief months after war broke out in 1861. It re-opened in 1862 and supplied officer and enlisted men to the Confederacy through the remainder of the war. The academy struggled on into 1867, when it was taken over by the state of North Carolina, which changed its name to the North Carolina Military & Polytechic Academy. Still struggling, the school closed for keeps in 1868.

Baker & McKenney, the New York company which produced this box, was in operation under that name from 1864-1871. Most likely the box was purchased between 1865 through 1867 - after the war, but before the NC legislature had changed the school name to North Carolina military academy, etc.

Intriguing Hillsborough cartridge box.