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Antique Civil War Binoculars, Used by Col. Francis L. Lee
About the Item
Presented is an original pair of Civil War-used binoculars, with their original leather carrying case. The binoculars were used by Colonel Francis L. Lee of Massachusetts during the War. The binoculars are an intricate example of brass and glass technology, most likely made in the early 1860s.
Binoculars were first invented in France in the 1840s. They started small, primarily as opera glasses, but by the Civil War, they were being used in battle. Larger versions became known as field glasses. Unlike Civil War uniforms or canteens, most binoculars and field glasses were purchased privately by officers on both sides. Very few were issued by the Government and those carried either "U.S." or "C.S.A." imprints.
On May 26, 1862, Francis L. Lee, of Brookline Massachusetts, became major of the 4th Battalion of Infantry in the First Brigade and First Division of the Militia of the Commonwealth. That same year, in August, Lee was commissioned as the colonel of the 44th Regiment of the Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. His regiment was sent to North Carolina in October of 1862, where it joined with Stevenson's Brigade. The regiment returned home from North Carolina and disbanded in June 1863. After his honorable discharge, Lee became a military advisor at the Massachusetts State House.
Lee would have used these binoculars to sight locations and keep track of troop movements during battle. When not in use, he would have carried the glasses in the hard leather case, as seen here.
CONDITION:
Leather wrapped brass and glass binoculars. The optics remain generally clear and the focusing mechanism still operates properly. The brass body displays some shallow dents and scratches commensurate with past use. Leather deteriorating on the handles of binoculars, with loss. Green patina to the brass.
With the original hard leather carrying case. Scratches and deterioration to the outside of the case, but stitching remains stable and intact. Leather carrying belt included.
Binoculars Dimensions: 5 1/4"H x 4 3/4"W x 2 1/4"D
Case Dimensions: 5 1/2"H x 6 1/2"W x 3"D
Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.
- Dimensions:Height: 5.25 in (13.34 cm)Width: 4.75 in (12.07 cm)Depth: 2.25 in (5.72 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1860s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading.
- Seller Location:Colorado Springs, CO
- Reference Number:Seller: OT7181stDibs: LU909745109802
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