Identified Civil War Model 1860 Cavalry Saber

Identified Civil War Model 1860 Cavalry Saber - Inventory Number: SWO 270

Very nice example of the classic trooper’s saber.  This example was manufactured by Emerson and Silver of Trenton NJ and is dated “1864”.  The condition is particularly good with the original leather wrap and twisted brass wire being exemplary.  The brass guard has a very pleasing uncleaned patina as does the rest of the saber.  The scabbard is excellent and retains a paper tag from the family which reads: “This sword belongs with discharge papers of Charles W. Fitzsimmons to Dorothy Magead Straley – Mother”.  The discharge papers no longer accompany the saber. Charles W. Fizsimmons had service in the 132nd PA Infantry from 8/14/1862 until 5/24/1863 when he was discharged.  He then re-enlisted on March 1st 1864 into the 12th PA Cavalry and served until July of 1865.  A genuinely nice example of an identified cavalry saber!

Charles W. Fitzsimmons - Resided in Montour County PA; a 36-year-old Farmer. Enlisted on 8/14/1862 as a Private. On 8/14/1862 he mustered into "A" Co. PA 132nd Infantry. He was Mustered Out on 5/24/1863 at Harrisburg, PA. On 3/1/1864 he mustered into "F" Co. PA 12th Cavalry. He was Mustered Out on 7/20/1865 at Winchester, VA. Promotions: Corpl 3/1/1864 (As of Co. F 12th PA Cavalry). Sergt 6/1/1865. He was described at enlistment as: 5' 7.5", fair complexion, blue eyes, light hair. Other Information: Born in Northumberland County, PA.

At the beginning of the year 1864, nearly the entire regiment reenlisted, were furloughed and returned to Martinsburg in April. Upon the advance of Gen. Early's army toward Washington in July 1864, the cavalry retired before him, disputing the way and engaging at Solomon's gap, Pleasant valley, Crampton's gap, Winchester and Kernstown.  It became necessary to remount and recruit and the regiment was stationed in the autumn at Charlestown.  During the following winter it was on guard duty along the railroad between Winchester and Harper's Ferry and in March, 1865, was sent across the Blue ridge to clear the country of guerrillas, engaging at Harmony with some loss on March 22.  In April, the 12th moved to Winchester and was assigned to the Army of the Shenandoah, the cavalry force under the command of Col. Reno. When the news of Lee's surrender was received the regiment was stationed at Mount Jackson to intercept and parole soldiers of Lee's army passing there.  Returning to Winchester it was mustered out on July 20, 1865.

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Inventory Number: SWO 270