Name/Title
SwordEntry/Object ID
2004.180.10.1Description
One U.S. Model 1850 Post Officer's sword without scabbard. Overall length 36 1/4". The "Iron Proof" blade is 30 1/2" long and is etched with the standard U.S. leaf, crossed banner , eagle, and E Pluribus Unum scroll pattern. On the presentation side just ahead of the brass handguard, the blade bears this makers mark "W.H. Hurstman and Sons Philadelphia." This firm produced swords, military and fraternal beginning 1849. Blade is imported from Salingen Germany. On the shank under the sharkskin grip the date of assembly by Hurstman is stamped "61". (1861). This weapon was carried by one of Rawlins's's Civil War veterans and was handed down through the G.A.R. by existing members until the last local chapter member J.C. Friend died in the 1920's. Ran's obtained it from now dead heirs of member of this chapter who wanted it preserved locally. Rans restored the grip wire and (scabbard leather) but all else is an original piece of Rawlins/Carbon County history. Note also, such a weapon would have been carried by Major Andrew Burt at Fort Halleck and by Infantry officers such as Thornburgh and DeTrobriand at Fort Steele. It current value ranges from $100-$225.Collection
Permanent Collection