09-06-2005, 10:45 PM
I've been looking at the Arch of Constantine so much my eyes want to bleed ... 
I'm trying to find any reference to Marius' forked pole beyong Trajan, in references or carvings, wall paintings or mosaics. Since baggage isn't a popular subject I doubt I'll get anywhere, but I am determined to at least exhaust every possibility.
How far do you think that marching poles continued in use for. Up to Severus? Up to Diocletian and the reforms? Beyond, into the 4thC? Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't Ammianus describe troops carrying '17 days rations "at the neck"'. Does that mean on a pole over the shoulder?? Or in a bag around the shoulder ...
Mmmm.
I'm trying to find any reference to Marius' forked pole beyong Trajan, in references or carvings, wall paintings or mosaics. Since baggage isn't a popular subject I doubt I'll get anywhere, but I am determined to at least exhaust every possibility.
How far do you think that marching poles continued in use for. Up to Severus? Up to Diocletian and the reforms? Beyond, into the 4thC? Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't Ammianus describe troops carrying '17 days rations "at the neck"'. Does that mean on a pole over the shoulder?? Or in a bag around the shoulder ...
Mmmm.
~ Paul Elliott
The Last Legionary
This book details the lives of Late Roman legionaries garrisoned in Britain in 400AD. It covers everything from battle to rations, camp duties to clothing.
The Last Legionary
This book details the lives of Late Roman legionaries garrisoned in Britain in 400AD. It covers everything from battle to rations, camp duties to clothing.
