Revolutionary War Period "New Invented" Knapsack - Reenactment, Living History

Description

Revolutionary War Period "New Invented" Knapsack
When the Revolutionary War began, there was a rush to equip the soldiers of the newly formed American army. It was at this time, in February of 1776, that an entrepreneur by the name of J. Young proposed to supply troops from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia with a "new invented" knapsack of his own design. The main selling point of Young's design was that it featured a double bag that served as a combined knapsack and haversack, doing away with the necessity of carrying both articles. The knapsack also incorporated a painted or "oyl cover" to keep off the rain. Although evidence is fragmentary, it is believed that soldiers from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia utilized Young's knapsacks early in the war. Eventually, soldiers from New Jersey, Canada, and even Washington's army received "new invented" knapsacks at least through 1778 when newer knapsacks with two shoulder straps began to be more widely adopted.
Our New Invented Knapsack is a faithful reproduction of this historic piece of military history. It features a painted flap, double bag interior, leather strap, and sturdy buckles.