Greetings Listers.

I have recently had a visitor bring in an item that has bewildered not only myself, but the curator and collections manager of the State Museum.  As far as we have all agreed, it is some kind of transport leather bag, stamped U.S. on the front flap, with three straps and metal buckles, and a short and long carrying strap.   The question is, is this a U.S. military issue, or is it a U.S. Postal bag?  I have been to the U.S. Postal Museum website, and didn't find much there to help.  Can anyone suggest possible sources for help in identifying and dating this piece?  It is flat in profile, rougher in texture, and larger than the Civil War era bags in the state collection.

Many thanks in advance,
Teresa Whitt, Director/Curator
South Charleston Museum
South Charleston, WV

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