This is a Model 1832 Foot Artillery Short Sword manufactured by the Ames manufacturing company. The Model 1832 was the first sword contracted by the US government with the Ames company of Springfield, and later Chicopee Massachusetts. This model sword was intended for use by the regular or foot artillery regiments of the US Army. It remained in service for use by the foot artillery until 1872. It was issued to sergeants and musicians of Infantry regiments from 1832 until 1840. While the sword was intended to be used as a personal side arm, it's most common use was to clear brush to set up a gun emplacement. It was also very useful in clearing trails for the guns. The design of the Model 1832 was based on the French foot artillery short sword of 1816. The French based their short sword from the Roman Gladius, standard sword of the Roman Legions. This Model 1832 was manufactured in 1843. It measures 25 1/4" overall, with a blade that measures 19 1/4". The 6" brass hilt has the fish scale type grip with an American Eagle on each side of the pommel. The brass has taken on golden patina. One side of the cross guard is marked with W.A.T. They were the initials of inspector Captain William A. Thornton. The ricasso is marked U.S./1843/JCB. The reverse side is marked NP AMES/ SPRINGFIELD. This marking is not as strong as the opposite side. The blade has taken on an even silver gray patina, with some darker age spots scattered along the blade. The edges are free or nicks or any other damage. This short sword could have been used during the Mexican War and most likely the Civil War. The buff leather frog that accompanies the sword has no maker or inspector marks. The leather is still pliable but a little stiff. An example of this sword is on the cover of John Hamilton's book "The AMES SWORD COMPANY 1829 - 1935". If your collection centers around Ames swords, the Mexican War, Civil War or Artillery items this is one you should take a hard look at.

Item # AA810

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