Old Military Box - What was it used for?
 

I purchased this old wood box at an estate sale recently. Because of its design, I am assuming it was used for paperwork or ...? Thought I would throw it up here to see if any of you guys have seen one before or can confirm its purpose.

It’s approximately 14“ tall x 17 1/2“ wide x 13 1/2“ deep. Metal corners/reinforcement and leather handles on each end. Twin, front metal clasps (that are keyed).

On the front is stenciled; US 17th - I (n?) (?)- Hq Co
*not sure if that is an “n” and I can’t make out the second letter either. Possibly Inf (infantry) and obviously Headquarters Company.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1422404159.jpg

Brass tag on top:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1422404196.jpg

Both ends have the red/black, circular logo:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1422404236.jpg

The interior is sectioned and has a small compartment with a door and a sectioned rectangular box that hinges down from the lid. Both are held in place with a leather belt/clasp configuration.


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1422404286.jpg

Any thoughts on its use - or the meaning of the circular logo?

The logo is Army, 7th Infantry.

It appears to be for some field use.

I'm going to start with radio or telegraph gear.

Edit: It's a Mess Kit.

ebay auction link

h a brinkhaus &sons ky are trunk makers
so they made the box
but not what ever was in the box

Officers mess kit, maybe General Officer's judging from the size.

G503 Military Vehicle Message Forums • View topic - MVPA Convention Finds

Well done Mark! From your attached link I see that is exactly what I have.

Does anyone happen to know the significance of the black/red symbol? A particular Unit/Division's logo perhaps?

Thanks all.

Uhm yeah.

See my post right below yours.

Sorry stomach, I missed your "edit".

Congrats -you tie for first place. :)

how is that a tie? :)

Ummm, because I deem it so? And because I don't go back and re-read previous posts that I had read yesterday - I missed his edit.

*If anyone's feeling are hurt -well, it was never a contest anyway. Just a question posed and answered. Thanks to all.

It would be cool if you could come up with the official contents and make a complete kit

Hey, yeah, I'm getting cheated here.

I expect 100% of the prize.

I will not settle for 50% of nothing.

I want all of the nothing or nothing at all.

Unless you need a mess kit, why? Just a cool old box for anything you need a box for!