Dimensions / Weight

Dimensions: 30" H x 21.25" W x 15" D

Physical Description

Camp chest made of pine covered in leather. The chest is lined with green wool fabric and has iron hinges, facings, and handles. The chest contains a cooking stove, folding pots, utensils, plates, platters, bottles, and other cooking items.

Specific History

One of the three camp chests known to have been owned by General George Washington.

General History

Washington usually slept and dined in the homes of well-to-do residents. On those occasions when he encamped with his army, the troops carried tents, a collapsible bed, folding tables, camp stools, and bags and trunks filled with equipment. Two sets of camp chests were purchased by Washington on 3 May 1776. Another set was captured from a British ship and sent to Washington in October 1778. By 1782, Washington’s camp equipment was so extensive that he requested from Quartermaster Timothy Pickering two horses just to carry the load.