What to store Essence of Coffee in?

[paden]

Greetings,

I have found a recipe to make a modern version of Essence of Coffee as provided by the Union. However, it was usually only supplied in large quantities.

If you were going to make it for yourself, what would you use that is historically accurate to store it in and keep it with you while on march or camping?

Thanks,

Pvt. Alexander

[shebanger]

Generally, you would keep your beans in a little muslin or cotton bag with a draw string. Typically, they would actually keep the coffee they were rationed and the sugar in the same bag, loose. All depends on how authenitic you want to be. Hardtack and Coffee, a period first hand account, is a great reference for this information.

[paden]

Greetings,

Thank you, but I am referring to the Essence of Coffee issued to the Union that was made by Borden's Condensed Milk. It is an early version of instant coffee. I am thinking a Mason jar might do it, but I am worried about it breaking while in my haversack.

Thanks,

Pvt. Alexander

[Ground Sleeper]

From what i have read, they would have put it in single serving amounts in a square piece of muslin cloth. Put the ration in the middle of the square piece and tie the corners up with some string, they would then use it over and over again until they were issued fresh coffee. basically like a modern tea bag is used.

As far as coffee beans Shebanger is right they would have been rationed by the pound and they would have gotten both roasted and green coffee beans and they would be packed super tight into a cotton bag.

Hope this helps

Happy Campaigning

Ground Sleeper