US Test: Bannerman Sale Records

Hugo Borchardt · 03-05-2011, 01:23 PM

Eric and Ron:

I wonder if Schmitten ever had any idea that he would be somewhat immortalized with his association with the test trials and such a rare item? Others involved may be more deserving, such as the holster's designer/s.

Reading through some posts in other militaria forums with interest in other E.H.S. stamped items, it is stated that arsenal records show that Schmitten worked at Rock Island Arsenal from 1903-1905. According to Michael Reese, the holsters were completed in January 1902 and delivered on Jan 23, 1902 to the various test facilities. Similar contradictions with other E.H.S. stamped items have led to the conclusion that the arsenal records are incomplete or incorrect concerning Schmitten. I have not seen these records, but have them on my checklist of things to try and find.

Also, I just purchased a "1903 E.H.S." stamped cartridge box off of ebay. They come up rather often and are not very expensive. Thought it useful to compare to the stitching, stamps, fonts and other characteristics we use to validate authentic test holsters.

Clark

03-05-2011, 01:23 PM	#20
Hugo Borchardt User Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Tennessee Posts: 372 Thanks: 340 Thanked 143 Times in 48 Posts	Eric and Ron: I wonder if Schmitten ever had any idea that he would be somewhat immortalized with his association with the test trials and such a rare item? Others involved may be more deserving, such as the holster's designer/s. Reading through some posts in other militaria forums with interest in other E.H.S. stamped items, it is stated that arsenal records show that Schmitten worked at Rock Island Arsenal from 1903-1905. According to Michael Reese, the holsters were completed in January 1902 and delivered on Jan 23, 1902 to the various test facilities. Similar contradictions with other E.H.S. stamped items have led to the conclusion that the arsenal records are incomplete or incorrect concerning Schmitten. I have not seen these records, but have them on my checklist of things to try and find. Also, I just purchased a "1903 E.H.S." stamped cartridge box off of ebay. They come up rather often and are not very expensive. Thought it useful to compare to the stitching, stamps, fonts and other characteristics we use to validate authentic test holsters. Clark __________________ My militaria collection is dedicated to the memory of my Grandfather, Marine Gunnery Sergeant Dave Hill, Jr., wounded in action at The Assault of the Second Marine Division on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, 20-23 November, 1943. http://www.tarawa1943.com/pages/casualties%20tarawa.htm