Exceptional pre-War militia canteen made for the State of Massachusetts as originally designed for use in the War of 1812.  These cheese box type canteens were issued early in the Civil War to Massachusetts Volunteer Militia units, many still being in arsenal storehouses from decades earlier.  They are seldom found with the original leather strap still intact or the strap supports and stopper.  Clear "M.S" painted on front.  Cleaned many, many years ago.