Early US Militia Staff Officer Sword

Jim McDougall · 29th January 2017, 07:35 PM

More thoughts leaning toward Masonic connections.
It seems that Masonic swords in modern times have pretty consistently used baldric type mounts (carry rings near scabbard throat on each side of scabbard rather than single side carry). I am not sure how early this began but the geometric stars, six point and five point are both Masonic symbols used in various cases.
The acanthus motif is as noted often employed in the neo classic themes associated with the Federal period and neo classic themes of the latter 18th into 19th c.
The names Washington, Adams and Jefferson are of course US presidents, but unclear on the others. As Washington was deceased in 1799, which this sword post dates, these names must be commemorative . Perhaps noted as members in key Masonic associations ?

The 'Oriental' nature of certain features on this sword suggests in degree (no pun intended) the Masonic link and symbolism aligns somewhat with their esoterica.

Speculation of course, but hopefully worth considering.

29th January 2017, 07:35 PM	#6
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,194	More thoughts leaning toward Masonic connections. It seems that Masonic swords in modern times have pretty consistently used baldric type mounts (carry rings near scabbard throat on each side of scabbard rather than single side carry). I am not sure how early this began but the geometric stars, six point and five point are both Masonic symbols used in various cases. The acanthus motif is as noted often employed in the neo classic themes associated with the Federal period and neo classic themes of the latter 18th into 19th c. The names Washington, Adams and Jefferson are of course US presidents, but unclear on the others. As Washington was deceased in 1799, which this sword post dates, these names must be commemorative . Perhaps noted as members in key Masonic associations ? The 'Oriental' nature of certain features on this sword suggests in degree (no pun intended) the Masonic link and symbolism aligns somewhat with their esoterica. Speculation of course, but hopefully worth considering.