This example is of the shortened First Model sword pattern with its scabbard.  The First and Second Model Swords were not poplar with Virginia militiamen due to their great length.  With a strongly curved blade originally 40” long they were not easy to handle and were replaced in 1808 by the Third Model which featured a relatively straight blade only 36” long. Due to the wide acceptance of the new, shorter swords many of the older swords left in storage were modified. This is one such piece.

This specimen is a variation with a straighter blade. This sword was still “cut and ground” and shortened to approximately 33 ½” in length. The blade has the typical narrow and wide fuller on each side. The edge was sharpened long ago and has a single nick. The blade is dark brown with very little pitting. A number “3” is stamped at the ricasso and the remnants of “4^th VA REG” appear to be stamped on the top flat of the blade.

Typical iron half basket with seven cut-outs. Iron back strap on grip culminates with the flat-ended pommel. A square nut secures the tang. Grooved wood grip shows wear with a chunk missing at the pommel. No leather cover remaining.

The scabbard was also cut down to fit the shortened sword and also show heavy wear. Applied throat is missing and drag-end is worn through leaving sword point exposed. A few dents and scattered pitting on the scabbard body. Ring mounts have been added to the scabbard and are complete with 1 ¼” rings.

The Virginia Manufactory of Arms was established by the General Assembly in 1798.  It was situated on the west end of Richmond just beyond the city limits on the south side of the James River Canal. The Manufactory produced muskets, bayonets, rifles, swords, pistols, cannon and the accouterments necessary for these weapons.  [jet]

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