US Pre-WWI, US Army Engineer Small Entrenching Shovel, Ames Mfg.
This item is listed for historical interest only. It was listed on our site previously but has been sold and is no longer available for purchase.
Sold for: $250.00

Original era manufacture. Adopted in 1903 as a tool designed for Engineer unit usage, but in an emergency, could be easily carried by the individual soldier. See pages 117-119, US Military and Experimental Entrenching Tools, Civil War to WWI, by Donald J. Hartman, for additional information and photographs. The book states an overall length of 31.5 inches, ours measures 30.75 inches, around 1,650 of these were noted to be on hand at the Engineer Depot, Washington Barracks in April of 1905. Ours is in sound original condition, with a mellow dark steel patina finish to he blade and handle. The oak shaft is free of cracks and chips, exhibiting normal age and wear. Scarce shovel, first one we have ever had for sale.