This set of accoutrements has a verbal ID to the 2^nd Rhode Island Infantry but nothing that can be carved in stone. The set includes the waist belt with cap box, cartridge box with repro sling and bayonet and scabbard.

The waist belt is the Model 1856 made of bridal leather with an attached brass keeper and large oval Pattern 1839 US plate. The surface of the leather is worn and somewhat dirty however the belt is solid and not broken or torn. The “US” plate has both arrow hooks and tongue on the back. The face of the plate is dark as is the brass keeper on the belt. Attached to the belt is the standard issue Federal cap box. It is in good condition with only light crazing on the outer flap. Latch tab is solid. The inner flap has both ears and a very light maker’s mark that reads “WATERTOWN ARSENAL 1865.” There is no lamb’s wool or pick on the inside. The body of the cap box and the loops on the back are very good.

Also in the group is a Model 1842 bayonet in a Type II scabbard. This scabbard has two copper rivets holding the frog in place as well as the normal stitching. The leather of the scabbard matches the belt in wear and surface dirt. There is also much surface finish loss and the central seam is split along its length. The brass tip and the leather frog are holding the piece together and will continue to do so. The bayonet has a semi-bright surface and is in good condition with a working locking ring and a good “US” stamping on the blade flat.

The last item in the group is a .58 cartridge box and sling. The sling is a reproduction but the Model 1826 Eagle breast plate is original. The plate has a mellow patina on the face with a well-defined eagle. The reverse of the plate has both hooks, though they are slightly bent, and 100% of the lead fill. The cartridge box has severe surface crackling throughout the face of the outer flap and the body of the box. There are also small amounts of surface finish loss and flaking. The outer flap has a sewn and riveted latch tab, which is solid, and a Model 1839 oval “US” cartridge box plate at center. The plate has a light patina and is fairly free of scratches. It is still anchored by the original leather thong. The inner flap of the box has both ears and is clearly marked at center “WATERTOWN ARSENAL 1864” in three lines which matches the cap box. The implement pocket is complete and the interior of the box has both original tins. The bottom of the box still has both roller buckles and bulbous brass finial. The reverse of the box matches the front in wear and condition. Both belt and sling loops are present. The belt loops are sewn and riveted. The box also has some residue from a leather preservative.

As stated above the sling on the cartridge box is a reproduction so it would be best to remove the sling and display the box on the belt which is a proper late-war set up.

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