I actually have the distinction of holding residence in Salem, MA, the very place where Joseph Short lived and where he began patenting his various knapsacks in 1861. Over one hundred and forty years later, Nick Sekela of Butler, NJ has managed to create an outstanding rendition of one of Short’s finest pieces; proving once again that no reproduction is beyond reach. The canvas used to create this knapsack is ideal, the product used to paint the cloth is near perfect, and the leathering is superbly well done. Even the stencils are dead on when compared to that of originals! Overall, as a private purchase item, this knapsack is first rate and cannot be beat in quality and/or price.