These clipped-corner rectangular breast plates with two cannon barrel like tubes were intended to fit a drummer’s drum-sling and carry his drumsticks when not in use. The reverse has doubled brass wire soldered in place to form three hooks to engage the upper and lower sections of a sling and allow adjustment, though many were simply fixed in place. This is a nice example with a mellow aged patina to the brass. The drumstick barrels are secured to the plate with rivets. The brass wire fastener is complete and firmly in place.

This is a scarce accoutrement plate that would look great displayed with a period drum and musician’s sword. Infantry companies were required to have both a fifer and a drummer on their rolls. Termed the “field music,” these men remained in service throughout the war, sometimes forming a regiment’s “drum corps,” even after regimental bands were abolished in favor of brigade bands in late 1862.  (SR)

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