Lot 668

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Description:

PRESENTATION SWORD OF BREVET BRIGADIER GEN. CHARLES TURNER, 108TH ILLINOIS VOLS.
Presentation sword presented to Lieutenant Col. Charles Turner of the 108th Illinois Vols. on or shortly after his promotion to that rank on August 28, 1862. This custom sword is modeled on the Model 1850 field and staff officer's sword. It measures 37" overall, ornate semi-basket brass guard, and engraved slightly curved blade. The grip, reversed leather or sharkskin, remains fully intact and the wire wrap is completely tight. The blade bears the mark of maker W. H. Horstmann & Sons, well-known makers of swords and other military equipment long established in Philadelphia. The blade is engraved with patriotic motifs, but these are somewhat worn. The original leather washer is present. The top of the hand guard bears the presentation engraving: "C. Turner Lt. Col. 108th Ill. Vol.". The scabbard bears the same gray leather-type covering as the grip, though it is chipped in a few spots. Brass fittings are intact, although the drag has a ding on one side.

CHARLES TURNER (1825-1880) was born in Hampden Co., Mass. and prior to the outbreak of war practiced law and served as a judge. He enlisted in Pekin, IL on Aug. 28, 1862 as a lieutenant colonel, and likely obtained this sword at that time. Wear on the inside of the scabbard indicates much use, leading us to believe that he carried it for much if not the entire conflict. Six months later Turner was promoted to colonel. Turner served with distinction for the entire war, seeing action at Chickasaw Bluff, the capture of Fort Hindman, Port Gibson, Champion's Hill (where the regiment fought until its ammunition was exhausted), Vicksburg, the repulse of Forrest at Memphis, in operations against Mobile, and in the siege and capture of Fort Blakely. President Andrew Johnson would promote Turner to brigadier general (by brevet) retroactive to Mar. 26, 1865 for his actions during the siege of Mobile. A very extensive history of General Turner and the 108th Illinois is included containing photographs, service records, regimental reports, pension documents, etc. spelling out Turner's entire military career and his life post-war. A fine relic from a valiant fighting general.

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September 11, 2013 11:00 AM EDT
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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