U.S. Marked Fork

[NHBandit]

Have seen lots of these old forks at flea markets, antique shops, etc. but have never seen one marked U.S. Anyone know if it's military issue and what vintage ? Thanks

 

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[DigginThePast]

I don't think the military would have wooden handles on utensils. I see the "US", are there any other markings on the back?

 

[NHBandit]

I don't think the military would have wooden handles on utensils. I see the "US", are there any other markings on the back?

No other markings anywhere. It was sold to me as being Civil War vintage and I have seen wood handled forks that are very similar from that era but none with the US marking. It's obviously steel since it has some rust. I have a very similar butter knife that is marked J. Russell & Co. Green River Works on the blade but No US marking.

 

[BuckleBoy]

The CW period forks were three-tined, except for some that were the two-tined, folding pieces of mess equipment. It's not an Indian Wars era kit either. I tracked down several of those as well, and they all had metal handles.

 

[nova treasure]

I don't think Military utensils were issued until 1870's, so it is interesting that it's stamped U.S. with wooden handle because once the Federal issue was in effect they used the tin plated or other type handles. They did have wood handle 4 tine forks during the CW era, but mainly used by the upper classman. But with that said, It may be possible that this was a personal order put in by a Officer for personal or regimental use during the Civil War.

Bill

 

[oldfireguy]

I have some early forks that were military forks and they are all stamped tin. I would bet there is a website someplace that covers military mess kits.