Description

Antique Civil War Era Artillery Horse Mule ID Hoof Branding Irons Complete Set Antique Civil War Era Artillery Horse Mule ID Hoof Branding Irons Complete Set Offered for your consideration is this Complete Set of Antique Civil War Era 9 Hoof Branding Irons as was used to create a serial number for each draught horse and mule in Artillery Service. This serial number enabled records of shoe replacement, medical care, age and unit assignment to be maintained for each horse and mule. This system was given the name "PRESTON" which created an identification or serial number for each animal similar to that used for a firearm. The set consists of 9 numbers from 0 to 8 with the 6 reversible to read 9. (In photo 8, I show how the numbers 6 & 9 would brand using the same iron). They measure 19-1/2" in overall length. Each 2" to 2-1/8" diameter ring carries the corresponding number impressed into its ring. Each brass head starts out as roughly a 1" square post and tapers down to create the appropriate number. The lengths of these heads are 1-3/4" to 2". Weight of the group is 6 lbs 11 oz. FYI: With approximately 7 million horses and mules available for military service on both sides at the war's onset, a system of serial numbers was established to provide a method of identification for each animal. Records were then kept as to the dates of service ie: shoe replacement, veterinary treatment, shearing, etc . Each Regiment of Artillery had a compliment of 10 farriers and 1 Chief Farrier. A farrier wagon and rolling forges accompanied each Regiment. Because of the absolute dependency of the Artillery upon the vast numbers of horses and mules in service, a system of identification such as a serial number was established to maintain a written record of the maintenance performed for each animal. A series of numbers was hot branded into the hooves of each horse or mule. The first group of numbers was of four digits representing the "Army" number assigned to the animal. The first number of the 4 digit group was branded to the near side front hoof. This directed the farrier to the correct ledger for the horse or mule. The remaining three digit numbers were branded to the left side front hoof identifying the exact animal.The next set of numbers represented the Troop level unit number and these were branded to the near side rear hoof. The farrier recorded to the ledger entry, each time maintenance such as shoe replacement, trimming ,hoof maintenance or medical treatment was administered for that specific horse. Hoof branding had an effective life of 2 to 4 months and It was the farriers job to refresh the brands each time he provided maintenance to the horse. The artillery when in the field was totally dependent upon the excellent condition of the horses required to move the cannon and caissons. Both Grant and Lee issued orders as to the severe punishment that would ensue from failure to see to the proper care and maintenance of the essential horses and mules. It was the Regimental farriers who performed the hoof branding with these specialized irons and maintained and updated the records for each animal. Inspection of each horse or mule was performed in camp prior to the animal leaving for a military engagement.The source for this data is "The Artillery Journal" by Major C. L. Scott, Q.M.C. Hoof branding remained in effect throughout the Civil War until 1927. We encourage you to view our photos for additional item specifics and condition details ~ Thank you and may GOD Bless the USA, our Beloved Troops & Veterans! We value honesty/credibility/reputation more than any item we might sell. We attach large pictures to show our items clearly & we do not misrepresent our merchandise. Your feedback & seller ratings are VITAL to our business. Please give us 5 stars ~ if you do not think we deserve it, please let us know why. Our goal is to please all customers. Jeanne's Antiques 55292 Hwy 12 Crofton, NE 68730 Shipping Your item is shipped "the day" we receive payment. We add no extra handling charges/packing material charges to your bill. Payment Options We accept many alternate payment methods & we combine items whenever possible to save you money. Feel free to call or message us if you have any questions. Listing and template services provided by inkFrog