Figure 228
This plain brass plate, having wire-applied pewter letters "S L I" is believed to have been worn by the Salem Light Infantry of Massachusetts.
SHOULDER-BELT PLATE, NEW ENGLAND GUARDS, C. 1840
USNM 604343-M (S-K 499). Figure 229.
Figure 229
Letters signifying the New England Guards are embossed on a shield of white metal that is attached to this brass plate, which has scalloped corners. Although the officer depicted in the Huddy and Duval print of the New England Guards[138] wears a waist belt rather than a shoulder belt for his sword, the soldier standing in the background is shown with crossed shoulder belts. Thus, this plate may have been an item of equipment for enlisted personnel rather than for officers.
SHOULDER-BELT PLATE, MASSACHUSETTS, C. 1840
USNM 604342-M (S-K 498). Figure 230.