Carpet bags.

[Robert Braun]

I 'laid off' using my carpet bag at NHW events a few years ago, as I could not document its use in or before the 1830s. A recewnt visit with Greg Carter inspired me to revisit the John Reynolds book My Own Times. Lo and behold... a reference!

Per pp. 109-110:

When I commenced "on my own resources," I had not one cent of money or scarcely any books or clothes. I had a horse, but not a decent saddle or bridle. I had not then received any Pay for my ranging services, and was literally enjoying life and happiness without a dollar in my pocket. It is true I had credit in a small manner. I was like the man's oxen: he said "they were strong in light work." My credit was strong in small sums. All my law-books could have been easily packed in a common carpet-bag; they were all put on the mantel-piece over the fireplace in my rented room, and did not fill it.

Shazaam!

Bob.

[pshrake]

I am not so sure Bob,

"All my law-books could have been easily packed in a common carpet-bag"


The problem word is "could." Reynolds does not outrightly say that he "did" pack his books in a carpet bag, only that he "could." It is too ambivilent a term for me. Reynolds may have been using a (for him) modern term, easily tossed in because it was in common usage at the time of the writing (I believe his book was published in 1855), and would be a contemporary reference that readers at the time could relate to.

Pete

[Robert Braun]

Thanks for your insights Pete. Rest assured, I was excited about the citiation--- and not the fact that I am rushing out to pack my carpet bags in preparation for the next event!

The search continues....

Bob.