United States Union Civil War army regulation tarred haversack, comprised of black painted canvas and having a single flap with remnants of a leather strap, a black metal buckle to exterior of main compartment, unpainted interior with two metal buttons, and a matching shoulder strap. Unmarked. 12 1/4" H x 12 1/2" W. Overall with strap: 29" L. Provenance: Private Holly Springs, MS collection. Note: Haversacks are some of the most seemingly ephemeral pieces of Federal Civil War equipment; few have survived. (The tarring that was done in an attempt to waterproof these canvas bags did no favors toward their preservation). Haversacks carried the infantryman's personal belongings and basic rations. They have an integral closing flap, closed with a narrow leather strap and steel roller buckle. They originally held a "rice bag" of un-tarred muslin, held in place by three iron buttons; these "rice bags" are typically missing. Condition: Canvas is stiff, with areas of loss, largest 7", primarily to base of flap and bottom and edges of main compartment. Rice bag missing. Rice cloth patches, largest 9" x 4", to interior of main compartment.