US M1904 Leather Rifle Scabbard Rock Island 1904 3rd Cavalry Marked Springfield

Rock Island Arsenal Scabbard dated 1904 and measuring 33" overall, shows age patina, wear, surface cracking, point end has a unstitching hole, 1-1/4" inches. Has the hanger straps with the saddle ring attached to them, but has torn off the scabbard, some of the belts are also torn, with wear, retaining the brass furniture. One side where the strap goes in is missing, showing just the studs.

The top throat area shows double stamped reissue Letters and numbers on both sides of the throat, with one side having quite a lot. What some of the numbers and letter signify, "35 H 3 L" Meaning Troop H, 3rd Cavalry.

Looks like a low 4 digit serial no. Which makes sense since this was the Model 1904 and is also stamped with the actual date of 1904. Below the throat markings are stamped, ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL 1904 T. Stood for Thomas Carrol, a civilian Ordnance Dept. Sub-inspector permanently assigned to the Rock Island Arsenal Leather shops.

His career spanned from the early 1900's to the start of the First World War. Upon their return, Troop H was assigned to patrol the vast northern plains of the American frontier operating mostly out of Fort Assinniboine and Fort Custer in Montana. A beautiful old piece that needs further research.

Would look great on your McClellan Saddle.

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