An Ames Presentation Sword Dedicated to Captain Samuel S. Weisiger, Company G, J.E.B. Stuart's 1st Virginia Cavalry. Captain...

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An Ames Presentation Sword Dedicated to Captain Samuel S. Weisiger, Company G, J.E.B. Stuart's 1st Virginia Cavalry. Captain Weisiger was an important historical figure in that he commanded the execution of John Brown and his abolitionists at Harper's Ferry in 1859, an event that helped spark the Civil War. This gilt foot officer's presentation sword with etched blade was presented to Captain Weisiger on the occasion of commanding the execution of John Brown and his followers after guarding them at Harper's Ferry.

The sword is inscribed as follows: "Presented to Capt. S. S. Weisiger by Amelia Troop November 28, 1859." Inscribed on the verso "From the Faithful to the Brave", the sword consists of original brass mounted scabbard with beautifully etched patriotic 31" blade. Captain Weisiger commanded General JEB Stuart's famous 1st Regiment of Virginia Cavalry, which was designated as Company G during the Civil War. He was wounded on July 21, 1861 at Bull Run, during the first major battle of the conflict.

Named "The Amelia Troop" for Amelia County, Virginia, the unit was organized before the war and Weisiger was well known for commanding the execution of Brown and his abolitionist followers by the time of the war. Weisiger supervised their execution just a few days prior to receiving this sword as a token of his faithful service to the state of Virginia. Hanged on December 2, 1859, Brown was led to the gallows with Edwin Coppoc, John Copeland, Shields Green and John Cook. The Amelia Troop along with the VMI Cadets had been ordered to Charlestown to guard John Brown and oversee his execution. Robert E. Lee and JEB Stuart took an active part in the capture of Brown as well.

This is an absolutely unique sword and is a superb and historical showpiece. Accompanied by a lengthy research archive and provenance material, this sword comes from the noted William Turner collection.

Authentication: Steve Hess.