Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent example of the scarce U.S. WWI Model 1912 Experimental Cavalry Ration Bags, manufactured by McKennon Dash Co. and retaining their original leather straps and metal fittings. Originally developed as part of the experimental M1912 Cavalry Web Equipment system, these unusual bags were intended to carry rations, tools, and other necessities for mounted soldiers and their horses. Although the system proved impractical for general cavalry use, the bags subsequently found an important role among American medical personnel during the First World War, who employed them to carry additional medical supplies. This example is particularly noteworthy for its New Old Stock (NOS) configuration, retaining the original attached leather straps that are so frequently missing from surviving examples. The bags also retain their original U.S. markings and faded McKennon Dash Co. manufacturer's identification.

This example is NOS, or New-Old Stock, meaning it never saw use and is still in the original configuration with all original attached leather straps which are always missing on these. The underside of the front flap has faded maker’s markings for MCKENNON DASH CO.. There is heavy verdigris across many of the metal fittings.

These bags were recycled into use among the Corpsmen and Medics to be used for carrying extra medical supplies. The M1910 haversack was deemed unsuitable by the medics and they needed something that they could access quickly, these were the best option at the time, more than likely saving more lives due to the easier access. The bag itself is in great condition with staining and signs of field use.

It’s marked U.S. twice on the front. Still retains the leather straps, a great piece overall.

The M1912 Experimental Cavalry Ration Bags represent an interesting and relatively short-lived development in American military field equipment during the years preceding the First World War. Their subsequent adaptation for medical use adds another dimension to their historical significance, demonstrating the practical value of equipment that had originally been developed for an entirely different purpose. This McKennon Dash Co. example is especially noteworthy for its surviving original leather straps, identifiable manufacturer's marking, and repeated U.S. stamps. Although there is staining to the fabric and considerable verdigris on the metal fittings, the preservation of the original carrying components distinguishes it from the incomplete examples more commonly encountered. It is an excellent representative of early twentieth-century U.S. experimental field equipment and the equipment adaptations associated with American medical personnel during WWI.