George Washington’s Military Trunk Bed Used During the Revolutionary War, 1775

George Washington carried folding beds, tents, eating utensils, and other equipment to use while encamped on the field with his troops during the Revolutionary War. Washington likely used this bed when he traveled from his Newburgh, New York, headquarters in July 1783 –– as the war was winding down –– to tour upstate New York and the military installations located there.

Unlike the fancy field bedstead, this bed is more similar to a modern camping cot. Made with metal legs, the lid of the trunk was used as a headboard. This bed was highly transportable, all fitting into a trunk after use.

(via The Henry Ford)