Presentation 1850 Staff and Field Sword Capt. Henry Middle, 42nd US Colored Infantry

02-19251

Fancy grade model 1850 with silver grip, raised relief scroll decorated pommel, quillon, and scabbard mounts.

German silver scabbard engraved between top mounts “Presented to / Capt. H. Middle / 42th U S C Inf / by his friend / E. Hollander / New York May 7th 1865”.

Henry Middle was German emigrant to NYC and had service as early as 1857. He served as private and NCO in 29th & 68th New York Infantries till accepting commission as lieutenant in the newly formed 42nd USCT late in 1864. He would be promoted to captain and stayed in service with the 42nd till January 1866 when unit was mustered out at Bridgeport, Alabama. The 42nd served guard and garrison duty around Chattanooga & Nashville Tennessee during its entire term of service.

UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: small file of service records