The Model 1858 New York depot canteen is in very fine and complete condition. It has 95% of its original brown wool cover, the original tin chain and stopper with cork, and its full-length strap. 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. The pewter spout is unmarked, but the well-used sling or strap is stamped in India ink: "Aug.- 1864" next to this there is another stamp which is hard to make out.

Donated shortly after the Civil War to Grant Post # 4 in Melrose, Massachusetts. The former owner was informed that the canteen was picked up after the failed assault on Fort Steadman by a member of the 9th Massachusetts Battery 25 March 1865. Remarkably this canteen was struck almost dead center by a .58 caliber Minie ball which seriously dented the face then penetrated it cleanly but did not pass through the other side merely denting it. The offending projectile remains in the canteen. The fact that the stopper is stuck fast accounts for the bullet remaining in the canteen. Certainly, one for the books!  [pe][ph:L]

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