[/URL][/IMG]Hey all. Went to a new place and found this belt plate. Almost disregarded the signal as a can but I've been trying hard to stick to the "dig all" method. Was wondering if anyone had any info on it. I've only seen one photo online so far. Thanks
Your Eagle Belt Plate, is commonly referred to as a Militia Panel Plate style of 19th Century waist belt plate. These stamped brass belt plates were commercially available from about the 1840's, on through the 1850's, even into the Civil War years, and possibly later in some cases. There are many variations of these belt plates, and they are found in various sites throughout the United States. Being that they were commercially available for purchase by individuals and organizations, lends for a variety of uses, other than strictly military function.
Thanks CC Hunter for the detailed info! I found it near the center of town on a wooded lot about 20 feet from a railroad track. I've been trying to piece the story together as to how it got there.
Hey good find mate... It is actually not that bad of condition for a dug recovery. It still has a-lot of character to it. In O'Donnell's buckle book - like CCHunter was mentioning - they date from 1845-1865. The one you have looks close to the 1855-1865 version with the construction of the plate - but it looks more closer to the 1845-1855 version if you look at it carefully.. I think it may be the 1845-1855 version.
Now I know that got ya smiling. I have been hunting an area here in TN that has had a lot of troop movement through the area but no battles or skirmishes. I have dug several bullets (Merrill Carbine, and 3 ringers) and a really nice NY button in the general area. I was in a really trashy old home site (circa 1812) and dug several cans and started skipping the signals. Then BOOM a Burnside popped out. Lesson learned. I went back to digging the can signals. Congrats on a great relic.