Sword w/scabbard

ca. 1850

Place madePhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North America

Steel, brass, fish skin, gilding; leather, brass, gilding

Overall: 39 x 5 x 3 1/8 in. ( 99.1 x 12.7 x 7.9 cm )

Gift of the 7th Regiment, National Guard New York, through Major Kenneth Miller

1953.148ab

According to the accession records, this sword was worn by Captain [Louis B.?] Rader of Company C, 7th Regiment, National Guard New York.

DescriptionSword with slightly curved, single-edged steel blade with three-quarter length fuller and etched eagle insignia framed by scroll design on obverse and initials "U.S." framed by similar design on reverse; gilded brass half-basket hilt with openwork scroll motif on obverse side; grip covered in fish skin and wrapped with wire; helmet-shaped pommel with leaf border centering a flower; leather scabbard with two gilded brass carrying rings and asymmetrical drag.

Markingsetched: on obverse of blade near hilt: "W. H. Horstmann / & Sons / Philadelphia" in relief: on raised panel on scabbard throat (reverse side): "HORSTMANN / & / SONS / MAKERS / PHILAD'A"

ClassificationsMILITARY TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: SWORD