These Model 1859 McClellan saddlebags were made by C.S. Storms of New York City. In 1862 Storms moved from St. Louis to New York City. He had a number of government contracts for a variety of leather accoutrements. It is unusual to find a pair of bags in displayable condition as they continued to be used by the cavalry and state militias following the Civil War into the 1870s. Subsequently the M1872 brush and shoe pouches were made from disassembled M1859 saddlebags, further reducing their surviving numbers. Experts believe that today, fewer bags exist in any condition than do specimens of the saddles for which they were intended. This set is complete minus only both bag buckles, but still has the closing straps, and tie down straps. The interior bags with leather closing thongs are present. Saddlebags had a wide variety of uses by cavalry troopers during the Civil War. Among them, it is speculated that their original purpose was to carry extra, pre-fitted horseshoes so that a cavalry expedition need not be delayed while awaiting the services of the regimental farrier. These bags are reasonable pliable considering the are over 150 years old. Ready to go on the saddle or add to a cavalry display. These were used to carry extra ammunition, and sometimes for the trooper’s personal effects. This is the pattern developed for the 1859 McClellan, the quintessential wartime trooper’s saddle and are a key piece in a CW cavalry display. Solid connecting strap in one piece with the single central hole for the saddle bag stud at the rear of the saddle. These cross straps are often torn or broken in half from careless folding and handling- this one is solid. Overall decent black/dark brown finish. Crackling and crazing to the finish, but not a lot of finish loss. Still fairly flexible. Both bags are decent with solid seams and no tears. The horizontal fastening straps above the bags meant to pass through staples on the saddle protruding through slots in the cross strap are still present. The lower tie down straps that were intended to pass through loops on the saddle skirts are gone, but these were often cut off in field service as unnecessary. I don't see any markings, but a better set of eyes might make something out. All in all, a good example of a scarce piece of Civil War cavalry gear, ready to place over the saddle bag stud on the rear of your cavalry saddle.
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