Posted 13 years ago
scottvez
(977 items)
This cabinet card depicts a young member of the Company K, 16th Infantry.
He is fully decked out with a Krag rifle and bayonet. On his hip is his canteen and he has a blanket roll across his shoulders.
His canteen and blanket roll are marked with "K, 16" with crossed rifles and the number "43". Additionally his hat has "16, K".
He also has a wrap on his wrist and bottom finger-- possibly a wound or injury to his little finger.
Based on the uniform and flag, I would suspect this is Spanish American War era (1898).
The 16th Infantry particpated in the assault on San Juan Hill and later was part of the occupation forces in the Phillipines.
There is not any photographer's information on the image-- probably made in theater.
Reproduction of this image in any form is not authorized.
Scott
Hi Scott - Take a closer look at the rifle, specifically the bolt handle, rear receiver bridge, upper stock wood and shrouded front sight. I think he's carrying a 1903 Springfield. Also, that appears to be a 1905 bayonet with canvas scabbard. I think this lad is from the Philippine Occupation, which also had it's share of fighting.
Actually, on closer inspection of the bayonet, I'm still thinking it's the M1905, but not the canvas covered scabbard, but a leather version of the scabbard that was also issued.
Good catch Chris-- thanks.
I was lazy and made some assumptions on time period without looking close enough!
Thanks for keeping me honest!
Scott
Your welcome! That blanket roll, flag, etc. would make anyone think SAW at first.
You probably surmised this already, but now that I’m home from work, I’m looking at the photo again. That’s probably a 1905 bayonet with the first style of issue scabbard. If that’s a 45 star flag (looks like all the stars are all diagonal to each other), then the photo is pre-1908, when more stars were added. So that leaves us 1905-1908. During that time the Moro tribes were in rebellion, and this young man may have had anything but a peaceful occupation duty.
Thanks Chris.
The 16th was in the Phillipines in 1905-1907.
He is wearing early web gear and the 16th participated in the Punitive Expedition into Mexico, so this might be as late as that time period.
I'll do some more research tomorrow.
Thanks again,
Scott
The flag in the background makes this breathtaking. Another wonderful photo, Scott.
What a great Photo Scott and I agree the flag makes it even more special . Love it !
Thanks solver, manikin, and beach.
Thanks official.
Thanks Samovar-- If you have time be sure to check out my other antique photographs and militaria posted on CW.
Scott
Thanks for looking tlmbaran.
Scott
The flag presentation on this makes it exceptional.
Thanks again Amphora.
I am a fan of Flag and Patriotic images as well as military.
Scott
Happy 4th of JULY!
scott
Thanks amber and walksoftly.
scott
Thanks bucket.
scott
Thanks blackwatch.
scott