Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Glasses, Field |
Catalog Number |
0985.03.00048 |
Description |
Binocular optic device of black enameled brass. Black leather grip. No marks/inscriptions. No case. |
Material |
Metal/Glass/Leather |
Dimensions |
W-5 L-6.25 D-2.75 inches |
Owned |
Frank A. Stanford |
Owner Regiment |
15th Alabama Infantry Jefferson Davis Legion Cavalry (Mississippi), Co. B 15th (Cons) Tennessee Cavalry, Co. D & E |
Event |
Battle of Shiloh / Pittsburg Landing |
Provenance |
Dr. Frank A. Stanford, of Columbus, Georgia, Confederate Surgeon, picked up these field glasses from the Battlefield at Shiloh. He used them for the duration of the war. Stanford was Surgeon for the 15th Alabama Infantry; Jefferson Davis Legion Cavalry (Mississippi), Co. B; and the 15th (Cons) Tennessee Cavalry, Cos. D and E. They were used again during World War I. There was a shortage of optic devices during WWI dur to the main manufacturers being based in Germany and France, so supplies were cut off at the outbreak of war. Field glasses were needed so that field commanders could see onto the field, into trenches, and to scan for submarines. The "Eyes for the Navy" campaign asked U.S. citizens to donate their binoculars, telescopes and spy-glasses. Willing donors were asked to send their binoculars, spyglasses, and other useful navigational equipment to the Naval Observatory in Washington D.C. |
People |
Stanford, Frank A. |
Search Terms |
WWI Optics found on battlefield Battle of Shiloh / Pittsburg Landing |
Subjects |
Optical devices World War I Medical personnel Physicians Surgeons |