Alvah Potter lived in Concord, NH when he enlisted as a 21-year-old 1^st Lieutenant on 11/12/1861 – into Company H of the 7^th New Hampshire.  After spending much of his term of service in New York City and at various points in Florida after jumping off at Hilton Head, he resigned on 6/30/1862.

On 9/12/1864, he was commissioned into "A" Co. New Hampshire 18th Infantry. Six companies were recruited beginning July 19, 1864, and mustered in September 13, 1864. Four additional companies were recruited beginning December 21, 1864. Companies G, H, and I joined the regiment in February, March, and April 1865.  During this time, Alvah was promoted twice – to Captain upon his second enlistment, and to Major on 4/4/1865.

The six companies were ordered to City Point, Virginia, September 1864 and attached to Benham's Engineer Brigade to December 1864. Clough's Provisional Brigade, Ferrero's Division, Defenses of Bermuda Hundred, Virginia, to March 1865.  The regiment participated in the repulse of the assault on Fort Stedman, the breakthrough at Petersburg, and the Appomattox Campaign. From there, they served in Washington, DC until mustering out on 6/23/1865 at Delany House (likely the site of the present-day National Cathedral).

After the war, Alvah lived in Lockport, NY.

His sword is a M1850 Foot Officer’s, featuring no manufacturer’s markings. Showing characteristics of a veteran piece; the brass is mellow and developing a bronze patina, sharkskin grips show some rubbing (primarily near the hand guard). Wiring wrapping is slightly loose but still secure.

Scabbard is finished leather with slight crazing and secure stitching along the reverse seam.  One small “dent” is noted. Drag, tip, and rings are complete and secure – middle band is loose and moves freely.  The tip has been wrapped with a band of what appears to be foil tape – holding an older ID tag in place. Blade is etched with patriotic script, motifs, and floral spray.  Metal surface is bright with scattered gray mottling. Edge is unsharpened with a few minor nicks in the middle and upper sections. Length with scabbard is 36.75”.

An interesting sword with a likely service history that took it all along the East Coast.  A great piece for the collector of personalized Civil War items.   [cm] [ph:L]

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