Historic, Homemade Saddle Valise Used by a Massachusetts Officer. ...

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Historic, Homemade Saddle Valise Used by a Massachusetts Officer. This dazzling handsewn canvas valise was made for young George V. Bristol when he enlisted as a Lieutenant in the 31st Mass. Vol. Infantry. Bristol, whose profession was "merchant tailor," may well have created it for himself. It measures approximately 7" in diameter and 16" long. The body is lightweight tan canvas on which is sewn borders of medium brown worsted tape outlined in dark brown yarn embellishments. On each circular end is a large "US" in a shield and the name "G Bristol" is sewn in script on the top. Access is gained through a reinforced slit opening which is secured by three brown composite buttons. Two handles, also trimmed with dark brown tape, are affixed to the top. Pinned to the top is an old paper tag which has been reinforced with a thin sheet of heavier paper. On it is written in red ink:" Fancy saddle pack used by my/father George Bristol during the war/when a Vol. of the 31st Mass. Infty./B. J. Bristol." Records indicate that Bristol enlisted in the 31st as a 1st Lieutenant in February, 1862 but may not have ever received a commission. A personal item with unbelievable visual appeal.