A Model 1860 Cavalry Officer’s sword with its metal scabbard. Blade manufactured by C.R. Kirschbaum and assembled by importer William H. Horstmann & Sons of Philadelphia. Horstmann, a well-known sword retailer and importer, contracted with the Prussian firm for most of Horstmann’s better quality swords. Horstmann imported and assembled the blades with grips and had the company name included in the blade etching. This steel blade is slightly curved and measures 31½” long with a 24” long stopped fuller and 15” narrow fuller. Both flats of the blade exhibit intricately acid-etched floral decorations along with military motifs. All etchings are strong and sharp with good detail…etchings extend about half the length of the blade.  Starting at the blade’s reverse ricasso is a foliate design that turns into a military motif of flags, lances, and drums then is followed by more foliate. The ricasso on the blade obverse exhibits the stamped “king’s head” maker’s mark of C.R. Kirschbaum. Etched up this side is the retailer’s mark that reads “W. H. HORSTMANN / & SONS / PHILADELPHIA”. Rest of the flat bears a similar etched design as the reverse with slightly more military motifs. Flat blade back exhibits a leafy engraving that runs 15” down the spine. Blade is bright and exhibits scattered gray spotting and a few every so small nicks.

The slightly ornate, cast brass hilt is typical of a cavalry sword and displays floral details on branches and edge of pommel. Top surface of pommel is engraved “Lieut. E.H. Leib”.  Grip wrapped with shark skin which remains tight and shows light surface wear.  Fine double-twisted brass wire flanked on each side by a strand of single wire, is all tight and strong. No washer remains. Brass has acquired a dark patina. Grip and brass hilt are loose.

The original iron scabbard is in solid condition complete with two rings and drag. Throat piece is tight but missing one of the two screws. Surface is dark brown with old surface oxidation. No dings or dents. Found between the throat and upper ring mount is a worn engraving, “Lieut E.H. Leib / 5^th Cavalry / U.S. Army / Battle Bull Run / 21^st July, 1861”.

Edward Henry Leib was from Pottsville, PA. He was mustered into the 25^th PA Infantry on April 19, 1861.  Discharged for promotion to 2^nd lieutenant in 2^nd US Cavalry on April 29, 1861.  Promoted to 1^st lieutenant on June 10, 1861. Transferred to 5^th US Cavalry on August 3, 1861. Brevetted to captain on June 13, 1862. Brevet Major and Lt. Colonel on April 1, 1865 after the Battle of Five Forks where he was shot through the shoulder and upper body. He remained in the Army until May 9, 1877. Leib died May 17, 1892.

A thick folder of research accompanies the sword. Files record his Civil War and post-Civil War service. One document of special interest sheds light on the end of his military career:

“April 20, 1877.

The review of the Judge Advocate General Dunn in the case of Captain Leib… I beg to express my opinion most emphatically that the sentence of ‘dismissal’ is just and should be enforced. The testimony in the case demonstrates that no matter how brave and patriotic he may have been in 1861-5, he has now by drink disqualified himself for commanding men, and as he has in former cases, … had his sentence modified by reason of former good service, the time has come when that appeal should no longer avail him.

In this connection I invite special attention to the endorsement of General Crook in reviewing this very case, which should have controlling weight: ‘The Commanding General of this Department deems it incumbent on him to state concerning the accused Capt. Leib, 5^th Cavalry, that he has heretofore been repeatedly tried, convicted and sentenced for various grave offenses, but that the leniency then extended to him has been without good effect; and the impression is becoming prevalent that no offense he may commit will receive deserved punishment…’.

I concur with General Crook entirely, and trust that no matter what personal influence Capt. Leib may bring to bear through influential friends, the army may feel that a just sentence of a Court Martial will, hereafter, be executed and persisted in.

W.T. Sherman, General.”

This is a rare identified sword with a battle honor.  Carried by a soldier who was wounded in battle and then had a long and obviously, colorful history.  [jet]

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