Name/Title
Scabbard & SwordDescription
Sword and scabbard; the scabbard is leather over wood and has 2 brass bands with rings and hools so can be hung from belt; tip of scabbard is stitched leather screwed onto scabbard body; back half of saber is leafy scroll for decoration; blade has a bright polished look; sword is saber shaped, pointed and has one cutting edge; handle is wood but has remnants of a "sandpaper" like wrapping held in place by copper or brass wire; hilt guard and butt of sword are brass with filigree work.Context
This sword, along with a revolver, sash and belt, were presented to Captain James E. McGuire, of Company F, 51st Volunteer Infantry on November 23, 1861. The presentation took place in Shelbyville. McGuire was a highly regarded lawyer and citizen of Shelbyville, having served previously in the Mexican War in the 1840s. He resigned his commission on December 4, 1862 due to poor health. He returned to Shelbyville, where he served as a pension attorney with his law office located at 9 1/2 Public Square. He continued to serve his community for the remainder of his life, serving three terms as the city attorney and as mayor from 1863-1867 and 1877-1879.Collection
Found In CollectionAcquisition
Accession
1981.024Acquisition Method
Found in CollectionNotes
Donated by R. W. HarrisonMade/Created
Date made
circa 1861Time Period
19th CenturyRelationships
Related Person or Organization
Person or Organization
James E. McGuirePerson or Organization
Col. A. D. StreightCreate Date
June 23, 2000Update Date
October 30, 2025