Standard pattern 1839 “Arrow Hook” belt-plate, w/lead reverse backing. Circa late 19^th century tag with period handwritten ID affixed to reverse:: “Frederick Dickerson /32^nd MVM.”

Belt face left edge bent down; upper edge bent slightly back. Exhibits medium copper patina, w/ moderate scratching.  Reverse lead backing show scratching. Brass arrow hooks and belt prong solid and tight.  Else VG.

A resident of Wareham, MA, Frederick U. Nickerson was a 28-year-old Nailer who mustered as a private into Co. “E”, 32^nd Mass. Infantry, 12/ 2/ 1861. He was promoted Corporal (no date) and wounded in action at Laurel Hill, VA, 5/12/1864.  Nickerson, born in 1833 in Plymouth, MA, died in March 1915 in New Bedford, MA and is buried there in Oak Grove Cemetery. Three of his siblings also served in the Union Army – James (1844-1923), in the 20^th Mass.; Simon (1846-1921), in the 24^th Mass.; and Hiram (1826-1910), in the 32^nd Mass.

His 32^nd Massachusetts Infantry was mustered in November 1861. Attached to the 5^th Corps, AOP, engaged  in the following battles: Fredericksburg, Gettysburg [near Devils Den], Mine run, the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, Siege of Petersburg, Five Forks, Appomattox Court House. During service it lost 144 men killed and mortally wounded and 145 by disease for a total of 289.

Solid memento of 32^nd Mass soldier whose regiment was engaged near Gettysburg’s “Devils Den.” Nickerson’ U.S. buckle makes a fine companion piece his brother James Nickerson’s buckle (see item 1181-40). Accompanied by research info.  [jp/LD] [ph:L]

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