This carbine cartridge box is an original example of the classic leather accoutrement carried by Federal mounted forces during the Civil War. This specimen is constructed of strong, black bridle leather. When closed, the large leather outer flap and smaller inner flap protect the ammunition in the carbine box.

The strong outer flap has a mild scalloped front edge. Leather remains flexible. Stitched and riveted to the center edge of the main flap is a leather closure tab that is complete and unbroken. Inner flap retains both side ears. Inner flap has oval maker s stamp "Dingle & Lorigan, New York."  Inner flap closes over a small implement pouch sewn to the front of the box. The wood cartridge block remains in place. The holes drilled into the block are not overly deep and their diameter is larger than normal; likely for Smith carbine cartridges.

Bottom of box has a brass finial and both black japanned roller buckles. On the back side there are two vertical leather belt loops with a single horizontal leather strip. All stitching remains strong and tight.

A nice example of a Civil War Federal carbine cartridge box. From the Texas Civil War Museum collection.  [jet] [ph:L]