[CIVIL WAR]. Lt. Colonel Thomas Holt, 70th New York Infantry, Sickles' (Excelsior) Brigade exceedingly rare corps badge.

1 1/2 x 1 7/8 in. silver badge; T-bar and clasp to reverse (some tarnish). Obverse features crossed sickles with an eagle at center, wings displayed. Reverse engraved "T. Holt."

Thomas Holt (1831-1897) enlisted on 20 April 1861 at Port Jervis, NY as a captain and was commissioned into Co. F of the 70th New York Infantry on 20 June 1861. He was promoted several times throughout the war: to major on 1 November 1861; lieutenant colonel on 1 February 1863, and brigadier general by brevet on 13 March 1865. After the war, he was active in Wadhams Post, GAR #49 in Waterbury, CT.

At the outbreak of war, U.S. Representative Daniel Sickles heavily recruited soldiers from New York City, partly in an effort to rehabilitate his image after shooting his wife's lover and the subsequent trial. He was successful in recruiting thousands which were organized into the 70th, 72nd, 73rd, and 74th New York Infantry regiments which comprised the first Excelsior Brigade. Appointed as the commander of the brigade, it was frequently known as Sickles' Brigade, hence the visual pun on display here. The 70th New York was heavily engaged in several key battles including Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and the Overland campaign.


The Civil War and American Militaria Collection of Bruce B. Hermann