US Model 1850 foot officer's sword by Ames belonging to Lt. Frederick T. Brown of the 44th Massachusetts Infantry, measuring 36" overall with a 30" slightly curved, single-edged blade having wide and narrow fullers and 1/2 length etched panels on either side. The blade is maker marked just above the ricasso on the obverse, and has a mostly bright original polish that exhibits areas of dark freckling along its length. The etched panel designs along the forte are still clear and visible with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" riband, eagle, and flags on the obverse; and a large "US" on the reverse. The brass hilt has a mixed yellow-ochre and ruddy brown patina throughout, with some traces of the original gilt finish remaining on protected areas, and the single quillon has been bent forward slightly. The shagreen grip is intact, as is the braided wire wrap. The leather scabbard has a lightly flaked surface, but the back seam stitching is still intact, and there are numerous small scuffs and minor blemishes throughout. The Ames-marked brass throat is period engraved in flowing script, "Fred T. Brown / 44th Masstts", and has a mixed reddish-brown and yellow patina which is also present on the middle band and on the slightly dented tip chape.
Accompanied by a modern, framed print of a photograph showing three officers from the 44th MA with Brown seated at the right, his sword visible at his side. Frederick T. Brown was a 24 year-old resident of West Roxbury, MA, when he enlisted on August 22, 1862, as a 2nd Lieutenant. On September 12, he was commissioned into Co. K, 44th MA Volunteer Infantry (a 9 month regiment). The 44th mainly served in North Carolina, and Brown was promoted to 1st Lieutenant on January 15, 1863. He returned to Massachusetts with the regiment in June of 1863, and mustered out on June 18, 1863. This is a very good example of a desirable US Foot Officer’s Sword, and is identified to a Massachusetts officer.
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