Beautiful M1850 Ames staff and field officer's sword presented to Captain George W. Johnson by the "citizens of Clinton, Sept. 18th, 1862." The sword's brass guard, hand-engraved mounts, and drag retain some original gold gilt. The blade's etching and frost is excellent- bright and easily discernible. Obverse blade etch has Ames' hallmark and typical patriotic design. Obverse of the scabbard throat mount bears the appropriate stamp "Ames MFG. Co. Chicopee Mass."

24-year-old George Johnson assisted in recruiting a company of men in Clinton, Iowa for the 26th Iowa Infantry and was made Captain of company "C" in 1862. Captain Johnson participated in Sherman's Yazoo Expedition, the battles of Chickasaw Bayou and Chickasaw Bluffs, and the assault/capture of Fort Hindman before resigning his commission. His wartime activity and service (?) after his resignation from the 26th Iowa is shrouded in mystery, as a preponderance of men by the name of "George Johnson" has made research difficult. It is possible he later served in a 52nd United States' Colored Troops, as a man named "George W. Johnson" enlisted as a Captain in that regiment not long after "our" Johnson resigned his commission. Official records from the National Archives should clear up any confusion.

Lovely example, it's difficult to find swords presented in the Western Theatre of the war.

Condition as shown, scattered gray spots to the blade, although overall it's in excellent shape. A few small dings to the scabbard. Sharkskin grip has light wear.

[Civil War] [U.S. Navy] [Union, Confederate] [Sword, Presented Sword, Presentation Sword, Ames, Clauberg, Tiffany]