This is a hand made desk organizer made by John J. Rhodes. Rhodes was a 17 year old Confederate Cavalryman during the Civil War, serving in E Company, 3rd Tennessee Cavalry Regiment! That's right, he really was one of Forrest's boys, serving directly under Nathan Bedford Forrest. Robert enlisted on 12 March, 1862 at New Castle, Tennessee at the age of 17. He was born on 8 November, 1844 in Fayette County, Tennessee and died 29 February, 1916 in Whiteville, Tn. This small organizer is roughly made in the shape of Tennessee and has circular cut outs for ink wells, pens and other items one would frequently use while seated at a desk. This piece of oak is beautifully stained and shows considerable wear from use. The top side of the wood is stamped R.J.R and dated 1908. The bottom is stamped "ROBT. J. RHODES/CO.E./GEN.N.B.FORREST/OLD REG 1861 1865 To REV./JOHN M. ANDERSON/WHITEVILLE AUG. 11 1911". Apparently Private Rhodes used this for a couple of years then presented it to his pastor in 1911. This is one of the coolest veteran's items to come into the shop in a while. The best part is, it can still be used on your office desk today!

Item # AA1992