Civil War Parade Torch, as in books and museums

This is a Civil War era Tin Parade Torch, circa mid-1800s. They were used for political rallies, holiday parades, elections, and military purposes, such as recruiting and when soldiers marched off to war. The tin fuel container has a diameter of 3” and is 6 1/2” high to the top of the wick holder. A swivel bracket is attached to allow for a wooden staff.

All the seams are soldered, which is correct for the period. There is a similar example of this torch on display in The National Civil War Museum, in Harrisburg, PA (see pictures). It is rare to find these torches that are not rusted out because of their use outdoors. This one has some surface rust and some tiny holes, but no chipping or flaking,  and still swivels as intended.

I have a similar example pictured in my book “The Civil War Soldier – His Personal Items”, (see pictures). There is also one in a period photograph (see pictures). This is a great piece and would really be a nice touch to any Civil War collection.