Classic Gardner pattern canteen, probably decorated circa 1890 with gilt paint on the iron rims and wooden spout. The front of the canteen decorated with a beautifully executed 4.5" diameter pastoral scene with mountains in the background, the inside rim of the face with a gilt painted rim. The reverse of the canteen exhibits a pencil notation with the date "June 18, 1891" and the name H. Pauline Courser. (Wife of the canteen owner).  Attached is a 0.75" x 2" circa 1890 paper label bearing the ink inscription "Col. David S. Courser's Canteen carried in the Civil War".

Courser (Corser) has a most interesting history. This was, in fact Cpl. Davis S. Couser of Co. H, 14th New Hampshire Inf. Courser enlisted Aug. 14, 1862, and was discharged July 26, 1865, serving with the unit through actions in Louisiana as well as Sheridan's Valley Campaign. Interestingly Courser was charged, during his term of service, for three lost canteens, apparently deciding that using captured canteens was cheaper than paying for new ones. Courser rose to the rank of colonel in the New Hampshire militia, and is referred to by that rank in later paper work. The canteen overall in superb untouched condition with rich patina, even retains the original cork stopper which is also painted gilt. An exceptional Confederate canteen with a remarkable history.    [ph:L]

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