Description

The popular pewter cupped flask of the period considered a “full-size” example. (Lords Vol. II, pg 103) Purchased by us at estate auction, many years ago – attributed by family descendant to James (H.) Whitelock of New York. Data shows James Whitelock served as a private in the 73rd NY Vol. Infantry from May 9, 1861 to June 12, 1862. The 73rd was the 4th Regt. of the Excelsior Brigade in the Army of the Potomac and was engaged in the Peninsula Campaign during his service. Made up mostly of NYC Firemen it was also known as the 2nd Fire Zouaves. (data base report included) He enlisted at the rather mature age of 35 years and was discharged after just over a year of service for disability at Mount Pleasant Army Hospital, Washington, DC. The flask has typical leather top in good shape with nice patina and scuffs but complete and tight with seams intact. Overall glass portion complete – has a short single hairline line crack 1-1/2″ long  in corner coming up from the base at an angle. Flasks with soldier provenance difficult to find in any condition this one is better than most.  Nice rolled lip to pewter cup with nice patina and some original luster. Base of cup is crudely hand engraved in script “JHWhitelock” with a design underneath. Gnurled edge pewter cap also has nice patina with same script on top “JHW”. Engraving very early/original to flask. (retail current for ID’d soldier’s flask $300) A great and relatively rare opportunity.