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Coffee sack

Object Details

Description
Coffee was among both Union and Confederate soldiers' mess kits. Unlike other edibles in the kit, soldiers always looked forward to coffee. Although Union soldiers were issued green coffee beans, they were able roast them over a fire and grind them with the butt of their rifle. Confederates usually had to add or substitute roasted corn, chicory, or peanuts in their coffee due to scarce supplies caused by Union blockades at Southern ports.
Data Source
National Museum of American History
date made
1860s
Object Name
bag
sack
ration
coffee

Featured In

  • From Coffee Cup to Coffee Table
  • Civil War 150:Soldier’s Way of Life
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