Civil War Model 1853/55 Knapsack, mostly intact with just about all of the leather straps, buckles, and rawhide ties still attached, but still in fragile condition. The canvas is still all there but the stitching on the sides has failed. One of the shoulder has an inspectors stamp (see pic 2) that reads, "R. Valentine, US Inspector, NY". Somebody has attempted to do some at home repairs using duct tape, see pic 12. I have more pictures of the straps, buckles, and the sides where the stiching has let go. A federal infantryman was expected to carry a double wool blanket, shelter tent, gum blanket, pair of extra shoes, mess equipment, toilet articles and spare clothing. The knapsack had two compartments and loops for attaching a rolled blanket to the top. A rare Civil War accessory.
