Host box in Chaplain Kit used by Army Chaplain Louis J. Beasley

Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

A brass host box, or ciborium, in three parts, with container (a), small insert for consecrated Eucharist (b), and lid (c). The host box is in a simple, completely unadorned style. The host box is cylindrical, with a flat base and flat rim. On either side of the host box, near the rim, are two (2) small protrusions which enable the lid to slide on and lock into place. On the base of the container in the upper half is an engraving [U. S.]. The insert (b), is a half-moon shaped container that fits inside the host box.The insert has a curled rim that secures over the edge of the host box rim. With the insert in place, there is space next to and below the insert for unconsecrated hosts to be stored. On the bottom of the insert is an engraving [U. S.]. The lid (c) has a slightly fluted edge, a flat top, and a narrow, curled lip with two (2) indentations where the lid interlocks with the container base.

Catalog date

1939-1944

Recorded places

United States, North and Central America

Recorded subjects

African American; Catholicism; Men; Military; Religion; Segregation; Worship services

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