Unknown WW1 pouch - stamped by RIR 221

[JensF.]

Yesterday I got this small pouch (13 x 19 cm) with a unit mark f?r Reserve-Infanterie-Regiment 221.

[JensF.]

2

[JensF.]

Unit mark inside the lid: 221 R

[JensF.]

Handwritten on the back the name: Schwerburger, RJR 221

And unit: L.W.M. Abt. (= Leichte Minenwerfer-Abteilung).

What kind of pouch could it be? Tools for the Minenwerfer?

[David Gregory]

Jens,

From the image you show, it looks as though it was made from a tent pole bag or Zeltbahn material.

David

[JensF.]

Thats possible, but it has got two (!) compartments inside. I forgot to mention this above.

[Chip]

Jens,

I have seen several of these over the years and just thought that they were personal items pouches made by soldiers by cutting down a Zeltbahnzubeh?rbeutel. After thinking about this for some years, I wish I had kept one, as I now think that they may be the pouches for rifle cleaning accoutrements and supplies.

Chip

[JensF.]

After checking the pouch again I got it! It is really a complete tent pouch, which was folded in the middle and sewn together. Thats why it has got two compartments and two repairs on front and back; these are the spots where the leather straps were attached to it. By its size it was maybe used to store Feldpost letters etc. Interesting item, especially due the unit LMW Abt.

Edited December 2, 2006 by JensF.