The sword shown here started its life as a Model 1850 staff and field officer’s sword made by Ames Manufacturing Company in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Either after choosing duty to state over duty to federal government, or after the sword was captured in battle, its Confederate owner cut out the right side of the U in U.S. to make a makeshift C.S. in the guard. The patina on the cut section of the lower part of the U, to make C, leaves no doubt as to its age and originality. In addition, this was a regular method of changing captured/recovered Federal swords.

I have seen several in my lifetime, in fact, this is the exact same make and pattern as the sword that was presented to General Mahone by the people of Petersburg in recognition of his defense of the city during the Battle of the Crater. However, in Mahone’s case[i], Boyle and Gamble executed better and more extensive work by making a completely new C for the guard and beautifully etching the blade. The work done on the sword shown is the simpler and more common alteration. This was done by cutting the U and soldering a small piece of brass to the upper portion. The small upper addition has detached. It could be put back, but I prefer it remain untouched.

The sword is in good condition with an attractive smooth patina throughout. The sword’s shagreen grip is missing its wire; 85% of the grip wrap remains. The hilt remains tight with a smooth golden patina to the brass. The sword’s blade is semi-bright with some light carbon staining. The blade’s etching is faint and difficult to decipher.

The scabbard’s surface remains smooth, with a dark brown to plum patina on the iron and, like the hilt, retains the same smooth golden patina on the brass mounts. The throat shows some rust and verdigris. The drag pin has been bent against the drag at some point causing a slight outward push. (See photo) The drag is completely tight. The top mount has AMES MFG CO – CHICOPEE – MASS stamped into its reverse.