American Civil War shovel (?)

[sksvlad]

I think it says "steel" on it, the only marking. Garage sale find. Any thoughts?

 

[Dronic69]

According to my reference, Thomas A. Carr, Alabama, made shovels for the Confederates.
Typically, blade was 10.25" x 7" with a 18" wood handle.
If it had a strap, would have been stamped: "T.Carr CAST-STEEL"

 

[Dronic69]

You have probably already "googled" these:

https://www.icollector.com/LOT-OF-2-CIVIL-WAR-ERA-SHOVELS_i5323325
https://www.pinterest.com.au/pin/382031980864685126/?lp=true
http://perryadamsantiques.com/shop/rare-small-size-of-original-civil-war-issue-shovel/
https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/100-museum-piece-civil-war-ames-1939043947
https://picclick.com/Great-Civil-War-Era-U-S-Marked-Shovel-232786433068.html

 

[sksvlad]

Thank you for those searches. I saw most but did not see the one talking about Ames Museum. I'll get in touch with them. Luckily it is in New York (if I have to go there). I usually stay away from shovels. But i was taken by the construction of this one.