Sword of Brig. GEN Daniel Morgan
This is the battle sword of Brigadier General Daniel Morgan of Virginia, carried by him throughout the American Revolutionary War.
Daniel Morgan is one of my favorite figures from the Revolutionary War. He will be the subject of a dedicated post and video in the future, once I have completed my 7th Virginia kit.
The sword, which is typically housed at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, is currently on loan to the National Museum of the United States Army. I have been meaning to examine this piece in person for quite some time and finally had the opportunity to do so.
Here is a breakdown of its features:
The Blade
The sword features an 18th-century blade (likely of Spanish origin) that appears to have been shortened into a hanger. This modification turned the tip into a drop point, which is evident from the abrupt interruption of the fuller. The fuller runs until the last inch of the blade. It features a flat spine that runs the length of the fuller before tapering significantly at the point of the shortening regrind.
Supporting the theory of its Spanish origin, the blade bears the inscription, "No Me Saques Sin Rason" (Draw me not without reason). The reverse side, which is not pictured, reads, "No Me Envaines Sin Honor" (Sheathe me not without honor).
The Hilt
The hilt features a typical 18th-century slotted guard, but with an open knuckle bow. The grip appears to be made of wood with spiral fluting. The pommel is a steel cap with no visible indication of a peened tang; it is likely hidden or peened beneath the pommel cap.
Tracking this sword has been an enjoyable pursuit. I have followed its location since it was on display in Richmond and finally caught up with it on loan to the U.S. Army. This particular side quest was inspired by a member of a sword enthusiast group who wanted to know whether the spine featured a pipe-back design.
The answer is: it does not.
If you are local to Ft. Belvoir, I highly recommend checking out the Call to Arms special exhibit for the 250th anniversary. It is free to the public and you do not need a CAC to access the museum.