The enamel mug was part of a soldier's mess kit. As a recruit he would march to the cookhouse with mug, knife, fork and spoon. During field manoeuvres and on active service the mug would never be far away, threaded to one of straps of his haversack in the field, ready for immediate use, day or night. After the WWII we got more spare-time and were able to go out hiking and camping and those mugs are great for this as well. Today they are still used for this purpose but they are also a great advertisement tool. Above you find some good examples from Edwin Jeans, Penfield, Sanborn Canoe Company and General Quarters LA. (most pics via Emalco Enamalware Co.)
