This is a classic Confederate enlistedman’s cavalry saber by Louis Froelich that not only still has its scabbard but also retains a beautiful, polished hardwood grip that never had an oil-cloth or leather covering. The grip likely did once have a wire running in the grooves that slant upward toward the pommel, but that is a small loss. The wood has some minor checks and hairlines, but is solid and has a very pleasing patina. The brass likewise has a great patina, showing some of the redness in color and a pleasing awkwardness in the pommel that collectors value. The pommel shows a casting line, some dings around the edge, three slightly larger marks on the obverse, and a number on the dings on the top testifying to the workmen speedily fitting the pommel cap and blade tang. The branches are very good and, typical of Froelich, branch from the knucklebow at different points. The hilt is tight on the blade and the thick beveled edge of the guard shows a Roman numeral XXIII cut into the side of the quillon. The blade is also classic Confederate, with unstopped fuller and typical slight forging flaws, but a good edge and point, and a mix of gray and dark gray in color. Like the pommel, it shows something of the south’s pressing need for arms: the fuller is about 1/4 inch longer on the reverse than the obverse.

The iron scabbard is even rarer than the saber. It shows the typically crude, lapped seam, but is solid and fitted with brass ring bands and throat. The iron carrying rings and drag are in place. The scabbard shows dark, with several shallow dents along the obverse, with some standing rust at the upper band, and shallow pitting overall, with deeper pitting near the drag, where there is also one small hole on the obverse near the tip.

Froelich was a “mechanic” who emigrated from Bavaria in early 1861. Settling in Wilmington, NC, he made a large assortment of sabers, sword bayonets, bayonets, pikes, knives, axes, accouterments and other vital military supplies throughout the war, though having to move his operation from Wilmington to Kenansville, and suffering from fires, federal cavalry raids, and numerous other difficulties. He is thought to have produced close to 12,000 sabers for Confederate cavalry, who were known for and cultivated a certain dash meant to evoke romantic images of English cavaliers. If there is a “typical” Confederate cavalry saber, it is likely one made by Louis Froelich and this is a very good example of his work.  [sr]

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