Paint Decorated
'White Star'
Militia Canteen 

New England, probably New Hampshire or Massachusetts, ca. 1800-1825 

Super bone-dry surface in original blue paint centered by a white star. The white star on blue ground likely represents the militia unit for which the canteen was decorated (reflecting the strong pride of the members to be part of this militia).

Thick walled, very stoutly made from what appears to be pine and ash. Although this canteen remains very solid, several places sustained damage in use at the interface with the back or bottom.

About 7 ¾ inches diameter x 2 ¼ tall.