Firearms and Militaria, plus Civil War Photography
Tuesday, April 29, 2014 | 10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Firearms and Militaria, plus Civil War Photography
Tuesday, April 29, 2014 | 10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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See Special Terms for additional fees
Description
April 29th: The Robert Trownsell Civil War Collection; Including uniforms and more than 1,700 cartes de visite of Union General officers.
April 30 and May 1: Firearms and Militaria
April 30 and May 1: Firearms and Militaria
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Early Naval Officer's Coatee and Vest Identified to Captain George Washington Storer, USN
Lot # 1 (Sale Order: 1 of 566)
Navy blue wool nine button double-breasted full dress Naval Captain's coatee and vest with gilt and deeply chased naval buttons. Accompanying the coat are a pair of added lieutenant's epaulettes housed in an earlier box marked: "One Pair Fine gilt Epaulettes/Captain" dating to the later Civil War-Indian War period, housed in a kidney-shaped pebbled composition box retaining papers trade labels. Buttons are marked "W. .H. Smith, New York". Three-button serviceable cuffs with three gold bullion strips and a single bullion vertical strip to end of cuff indicating the relatively uncommon rank of captain. Collar is trimmed in gold bullion indicating rank. Back of coat has three seams that lead to vent and tails. On each tail is a row of four buttons covered by flap and trimmed in gold bullion. Two buttons at top and bottom of tails. Coatee is lined in white with wide quilted pattern in chest, underarms and shoulder blades. Sleeves are lined in white and on the inside of right sleeve is cloth tag in ink marked "Capt. G.W. Storer."
Storer held the rank of Captain from February 1837 until he was placed on the retired list as Rear-Admiral on July 16, 1862. Vest is white linen nine button single breast. Has chest pocket and 2 front hip pockets. Buttons are attached by brass rings on inside and marked "F.I.F. & Co." Gilt and chased buttons. Inside left breast pocket.
Accompanying the coat is a later CDV by Anthony showing an aging Rear-Admiral Storer in full dress uniform about the time of his retirement in 1862.
During Rear Admiral George Washington Storer's visit to Portsmouth in 1789, he called on Mrs. Tobias Lear, mother of his private secretary Colonel Tobias Lear. An infant was presented, the son of Samuel Storer. Certainly inspired by heroes like John Paul Jones and Lord Nelson, naval service would encompass nearly fifty-three years before the mast, long cruises both monotonous and pulse pounding, sailing the reaches from the Barbary Coast to the Horn, on South American Station, and to Africa where slavers plied their vile trade.
George Washington Storer was promoted Commander in April 1828. Storer centered on Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, the last nation which permitted the importation of human cargo. Captain Storer acted as flag officer commanding the Brazilian Squadron beginning in 1847 and was personally involved in the capture of four slavers before reassigned to new duties in 1850.
Following extended leave, Captain Storer took command of the Philadelphia Naval Asylum, a new government hospital set up to care for infirm and destitute former sailors. In 1857 he became President of the controversial Naval Court of Inquiry enacted by Congress in 1855 to rid the navy of inefficient and incompetent officers. During the proceedings nearly 200 officers were dismissed from the service.
George Washington Storer was promoted Rear-Admiral and officially placed on the retired list on July 16, 1862. He died before the end of the war on January 8, 1864 at his home in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The admiral is buried with his wife and several children in the family plot in Proprietors Burying Ground, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. George Washington s papers from the 1817-1868 period are housed at Princeton University.
Provenance: Descended in the Decatur Family. Meadows to Consignor 2009
Condition: Coatee had placements holes for epaulettes on shoulders. A fine uniform showing some signs of scattered moth nips. Right coat tail has two noticeable holes. Intact lining show normal signs of wear. Vest with light staining. Overall condition of coat, vest and epaulettes VG.
EST $ 6000 - 8000
Storer held the rank of Captain from February 1837 until he was placed on the retired list as Rear-Admiral on July 16, 1862. Vest is white linen nine button single breast. Has chest pocket and 2 front hip pockets. Buttons are attached by brass rings on inside and marked "F.I.F. & Co." Gilt and chased buttons. Inside left breast pocket.
Accompanying the coat is a later CDV by Anthony showing an aging Rear-Admiral Storer in full dress uniform about the time of his retirement in 1862.
During Rear Admiral George Washington Storer's visit to Portsmouth in 1789, he called on Mrs. Tobias Lear, mother of his private secretary Colonel Tobias Lear. An infant was presented, the son of Samuel Storer. Certainly inspired by heroes like John Paul Jones and Lord Nelson, naval service would encompass nearly fifty-three years before the mast, long cruises both monotonous and pulse pounding, sailing the reaches from the Barbary Coast to the Horn, on South American Station, and to Africa where slavers plied their vile trade.
George Washington Storer was promoted Commander in April 1828. Storer centered on Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, the last nation which permitted the importation of human cargo. Captain Storer acted as flag officer commanding the Brazilian Squadron beginning in 1847 and was personally involved in the capture of four slavers before reassigned to new duties in 1850.
Following extended leave, Captain Storer took command of the Philadelphia Naval Asylum, a new government hospital set up to care for infirm and destitute former sailors. In 1857 he became President of the controversial Naval Court of Inquiry enacted by Congress in 1855 to rid the navy of inefficient and incompetent officers. During the proceedings nearly 200 officers were dismissed from the service.
George Washington Storer was promoted Rear-Admiral and officially placed on the retired list on July 16, 1862. He died before the end of the war on January 8, 1864 at his home in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The admiral is buried with his wife and several children in the family plot in Proprietors Burying Ground, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. George Washington s papers from the 1817-1868 period are housed at Princeton University.
Provenance: Descended in the Decatur Family. Meadows to Consignor 2009
Condition: Coatee had placements holes for epaulettes on shoulders. A fine uniform showing some signs of scattered moth nips. Right coat tail has two noticeable holes. Intact lining show normal signs of wear. Vest with light staining. Overall condition of coat, vest and epaulettes VG.
EST $ 6000 - 8000
Rare Civil War Major General Frock Coat
Lot # 2 (Sale Order: 2 of 566)
High quality navy blue double breasted Major General Frock Coat with gilded staff officer's buttons aligned in rows of three set in a distinct "lyre" configuration. Dark navy velvet on collar and non-serviceable cuffs. Buttons are manufactured by Waterbury & Co. Medium dark olive lining with aged white sleeves and red stripes. Closely quilted pattern throughout chest and shoulders. Interior label says "Property of" with the rest obliterated. Skirt measures 22 in. to a rough edge. Elbows are belled measuring at 10 in. in width. Rear of coat has 3 large seams that lead to a center vent. Center vent has 2 buttons at top and middle. Shoulder straps with a dark background and 2 sliver bullion stars with large bullion border and 2 small outlining the large bullion. Sadly, this rare uniform is unidentified but is said to have originated from a defunct historical society on the East Coast according to information relayed to the consignor at the time of purchase.
Provenance: J. Frasca to Consignor 1995
Condition: Overall coat is in excellent condition. Coat shows some wear at the top edge of velvet collar. One tiny moth hole near the 2nd button from skirt seam. On right sleeve 2 small moth holes near elbow. A very rare chance to own a Major General's Frock Coat.
EST $ 15000 - 20000
Provenance: J. Frasca to Consignor 1995
Condition: Overall coat is in excellent condition. Coat shows some wear at the top edge of velvet collar. One tiny moth hole near the 2nd button from skirt seam. On right sleeve 2 small moth holes near elbow. A very rare chance to own a Major General's Frock Coat.
EST $ 15000 - 20000
Civil War Brigadier General Frock Coat Attributed to John Cook of Illinois
Lot # 3 (Sale Order: 3 of 566)
Navy blue wool double-breasted frock coat. Gilt Staff Officers' buttons in rows of two manufactured by R&W Robinson. Dark navy blue velvet collar and non-serviceable cuffs. Lining of frock coat is medium dark olive green with a close-quilted pattern throughout the chest and shoulders. Lining of sleeves is an aged solid white. Skirt of frock coat is 21" to a rough edge. Elbow is bell-shaped measuring 10" in width. Brigadier's shoulder straps have a single silver bullion star in center. Along the edge is a single large bullion with small lines on each side. Near the collar on each side is a stitch of thread that could be used for shoulder epaulets. Rear of coat has three seams leading to a large single center vent with two buttons at top of the vent and at the middle of the vent.
This frock coat reportedly belonged to Brigadier General John Cook (according to the consignor), formerly Colonel of the 7th Illinois Infantry, although the partially inked and badly frayed name tag in the collar is, unfortunately, unreadable. This coat we believe to have been Cook's interim uniform worn prior to his promotion to Major General in August 1865.
John Cook (1825-1910) entered service as Colonel of the 7th Illinois Infantry on May 9, 1861. He led a brigade in C. F. Smith’s Division at Fort Donelson where he was commended for gallantry and was soon promoted to Brigadier general on March 21, 1862. Thereafter, General Cook was assigned to the Department of the Northwest seeing some action against Sioux before taking over command of the District of Illinois headquartered at Springfield, his hometown. He remained on administrative duty for the duration of the war and mustered out on August 24, 1865 with a brevet promotion to Major General. After the war he dabbled in Illinois politics and held the concession for supplying the Rosebud Agency in the Dakota Territory in 1879. In later years Cook lived in Ransom, Michigan until his death on October 13, 1910 and was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield.
Provenance: Sexton/Juno to the Consignor 1999
Condition: Coat shows that the lapels were worn folded over and buttoned as opposed to the normal buttoned-to-top look of most officers. Extreme wear on collar. Old repair to armpit of right sleeve. Two small repairs to chest area are very professionally done. Some loss of stitching to 5 of the button holes. Small seam open at the top of collar which could be repaired. Overall excellent condition is unusual for a rear General Officer's frock coat.
EST $ 12000 - 18000
This frock coat reportedly belonged to Brigadier General John Cook (according to the consignor), formerly Colonel of the 7th Illinois Infantry, although the partially inked and badly frayed name tag in the collar is, unfortunately, unreadable. This coat we believe to have been Cook's interim uniform worn prior to his promotion to Major General in August 1865.
John Cook (1825-1910) entered service as Colonel of the 7th Illinois Infantry on May 9, 1861. He led a brigade in C. F. Smith’s Division at Fort Donelson where he was commended for gallantry and was soon promoted to Brigadier general on March 21, 1862. Thereafter, General Cook was assigned to the Department of the Northwest seeing some action against Sioux before taking over command of the District of Illinois headquartered at Springfield, his hometown. He remained on administrative duty for the duration of the war and mustered out on August 24, 1865 with a brevet promotion to Major General. After the war he dabbled in Illinois politics and held the concession for supplying the Rosebud Agency in the Dakota Territory in 1879. In later years Cook lived in Ransom, Michigan until his death on October 13, 1910 and was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield.
Provenance: Sexton/Juno to the Consignor 1999
Condition: Coat shows that the lapels were worn folded over and buttoned as opposed to the normal buttoned-to-top look of most officers. Extreme wear on collar. Old repair to armpit of right sleeve. Two small repairs to chest area are very professionally done. Some loss of stitching to 5 of the button holes. Small seam open at the top of collar which could be repaired. Overall excellent condition is unusual for a rear General Officer's frock coat.
EST $ 12000 - 18000
Civil War Officer's Private Purchase Sack Coat Identified as Lt. Col. Peter Osterhaus, 12th Missouri
Lot # 4 (Sale Order: 4 of 566)
Dark wool body double-breasted 4-button coat with notched lapels. Buttons do not have any maker's marks. Buttons have an "I" on the shield of the eagle's breast. Major's oak leaves with prongs that stick through the shoulder and folded it over. Dark olive lining with wide quilted patterns in chest and shoulders. Inside breast piped pockets on each side. Sleeves are lined in white. Small center vent. Non-serviceable cuffs. Elbows measure 9" in width.
Peter Osterhaus (1823-1917) remains a relatively unknown Civil War officer whose excellent service is the Western theater has been largely ignored by historians. Having fled his native Prussian in the wake of the failed 1849 Revolt, Osterhaus settled in Bellville, Illinois and achieved a measure of business success while becoming a naturalized American citizen and dabbling in Republican politics. Having relocated in 1860 to nearby St. Louis with its large German immigrant population Osterhaus was soon embroiled in the lead-up to the Civil War, doing his part by secretly training medical students to be militiamen in order to protect the vital Federal arsenal there.
Shortly after Ft. Sumter, he enlisted as a 37 year-old private in the 2nd Missouri Volunteer Infantry and was quickly elected captain and then major within a few weeks. Employing his former Prussian military experience, Osterhaus excelled in training the enthusiastic but raw “Dutch” recruits and being bilingual made him even more valuable to his commanding officers, since most of his fellow soldiers spoke primarily German. After Major Osterhaus’ commendable performance in command of an infantry battalion at Wilson's Creek in August 1861, General Fremont appointed him colonel of the 12th Missouri which he successfully recruited and trained. Still a newly appointed regimental colonel, Osterhaus soon was acting as a temporary brigade commander under Fremont. Three months later at the battle of Pea Ridge in March 1862, Colonel Osterhaus commanded a division where his conspicuous conduct on the field earned him a brigadier’s star on June 9, 1862. Up until then his rapid if fortuitous advancement in the burgeoning volunteer army had been virtually unparalleled as the Union girded for a lengthy conflict.
From that point until nearly the end of the war, Osterhaus commanded at the division level, honing his skills along the way. He was particularly innovative, becoming noted for his skill in placing artillery and its rapid employment with skirmishers. Thereafter, General Osterhaus made significant contributions in several of the major campaigns in the western theater including Vicksburg, Chattanooga, and Atlanta.
Promoted to Major General in July 1864, Osterhaus was elevated to the command of the 15th Corps, Army of the Tennessee, under O.O. Howard. Following the fall of Atlanta, the corps accompanied Sherman during the chase after John Bell Hood and later the March to the Sea. Once Savannah had fallen, Osterhaus was reassigned as Chief of Staff to General E.R. S. Canby, a commander with no battle experience higher that regimental level, and contributed his own hard-won expertise to the successful capture of the forts at Mobile Bay, the last major campaign of the war. Osterhaus oversaw the surrender of the Confederate Trans-Mississippi Army under E. Kirby Smith and signed the final surrender documents as proxy for General Canby.
Immediately after the war, Osterhaus spent six months in the grueling assignment of military governor of the District of Mississippi during Presidential Reconstruction. He was finally discharged from volunteer service in January 1866 and returned briefly to St. Louis. He then was appointed United States Consul to Lyon, France, a post he held for the next eleven years which included the Franco-Prussian War.
In 1877, Osterhaus returned to New York City where for several years he engaged in manufacturing and exporting hardware. Afterwards, he removed to Manheim, Germany remaining in the hardware business and later becoming U.S. Vice-Consul at Manheim. He retired around 1905 and lived another dozen years, dying in Koblenz, Germany on January 2, 1917 just before his son, Rear Admiral Hugo Osterhaus, Commander-in-Chief of the Atlantic Fleet in 1912, was called out of retirement to assist in the war effort against his father’s native land. Shortly before his death, the enigmatic Peter Osterhaus was appointed Major General, U.S. Army, becoming the last survivor of the Civil War to hold that rank. Consignor relates that this informal sack coat was found in the attic of his former home.
Provenance: H. Deeks to Consignor 2003
Condition: Excellent overall condition with no mothing. There is small signs of wear on cloth.
EST $ 6000 - 9000
Peter Osterhaus (1823-1917) remains a relatively unknown Civil War officer whose excellent service is the Western theater has been largely ignored by historians. Having fled his native Prussian in the wake of the failed 1849 Revolt, Osterhaus settled in Bellville, Illinois and achieved a measure of business success while becoming a naturalized American citizen and dabbling in Republican politics. Having relocated in 1860 to nearby St. Louis with its large German immigrant population Osterhaus was soon embroiled in the lead-up to the Civil War, doing his part by secretly training medical students to be militiamen in order to protect the vital Federal arsenal there.
Shortly after Ft. Sumter, he enlisted as a 37 year-old private in the 2nd Missouri Volunteer Infantry and was quickly elected captain and then major within a few weeks. Employing his former Prussian military experience, Osterhaus excelled in training the enthusiastic but raw “Dutch” recruits and being bilingual made him even more valuable to his commanding officers, since most of his fellow soldiers spoke primarily German. After Major Osterhaus’ commendable performance in command of an infantry battalion at Wilson's Creek in August 1861, General Fremont appointed him colonel of the 12th Missouri which he successfully recruited and trained. Still a newly appointed regimental colonel, Osterhaus soon was acting as a temporary brigade commander under Fremont. Three months later at the battle of Pea Ridge in March 1862, Colonel Osterhaus commanded a division where his conspicuous conduct on the field earned him a brigadier’s star on June 9, 1862. Up until then his rapid if fortuitous advancement in the burgeoning volunteer army had been virtually unparalleled as the Union girded for a lengthy conflict.
From that point until nearly the end of the war, Osterhaus commanded at the division level, honing his skills along the way. He was particularly innovative, becoming noted for his skill in placing artillery and its rapid employment with skirmishers. Thereafter, General Osterhaus made significant contributions in several of the major campaigns in the western theater including Vicksburg, Chattanooga, and Atlanta.
Promoted to Major General in July 1864, Osterhaus was elevated to the command of the 15th Corps, Army of the Tennessee, under O.O. Howard. Following the fall of Atlanta, the corps accompanied Sherman during the chase after John Bell Hood and later the March to the Sea. Once Savannah had fallen, Osterhaus was reassigned as Chief of Staff to General E.R. S. Canby, a commander with no battle experience higher that regimental level, and contributed his own hard-won expertise to the successful capture of the forts at Mobile Bay, the last major campaign of the war. Osterhaus oversaw the surrender of the Confederate Trans-Mississippi Army under E. Kirby Smith and signed the final surrender documents as proxy for General Canby.
Immediately after the war, Osterhaus spent six months in the grueling assignment of military governor of the District of Mississippi during Presidential Reconstruction. He was finally discharged from volunteer service in January 1866 and returned briefly to St. Louis. He then was appointed United States Consul to Lyon, France, a post he held for the next eleven years which included the Franco-Prussian War.
In 1877, Osterhaus returned to New York City where for several years he engaged in manufacturing and exporting hardware. Afterwards, he removed to Manheim, Germany remaining in the hardware business and later becoming U.S. Vice-Consul at Manheim. He retired around 1905 and lived another dozen years, dying in Koblenz, Germany on January 2, 1917 just before his son, Rear Admiral Hugo Osterhaus, Commander-in-Chief of the Atlantic Fleet in 1912, was called out of retirement to assist in the war effort against his father’s native land. Shortly before his death, the enigmatic Peter Osterhaus was appointed Major General, U.S. Army, becoming the last survivor of the Civil War to hold that rank. Consignor relates that this informal sack coat was found in the attic of his former home.
Provenance: H. Deeks to Consignor 2003
Condition: Excellent overall condition with no mothing. There is small signs of wear on cloth.
EST $ 6000 - 9000
Extra Fancy Colonel's Frock Coat Belonging to Col.Charles W. Roberts, 2nd ME.
Lot # 5 (Sale Order: 5 of 566)
Navy blue wool seven-button double-breasted colonel of infantry frock coat. Buttons are marked "Tiffany & Co." Shoulder straps are navy velvet cloth with fancy double gold bullion border and silver bullion eagle highlighted with red stitching for eye and in the beak. Three-button serviceable cuffs. Skirt is 19.5" to rough edge and bell-shaped elbows are 9" wide. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and in middle of vent. Coat has black lining with close quilted pattern in chest and underarms. Lining in sleeves are white. Piped inside left breast pocket. An top end Civil War officer's frock coat worn by Colonel Charles W Roberts, 2nd ME . Vol. Inf.
The coat belonging to Col. Roberts and other artifacts now missing were owned by a Mr. John Vose of South Portand, ME who sold the frock coat to a Mr. Douglas Morr of Edwardsville, IL in June 1970. A series of five letters dating November 1969 to June 1970 attest to the particulars of the transaction. Mrs. Vose also forwarded to Mr. Morr a booklet entitled Memorial to the Second Maine Regiment of Volunteers published by the Mount Hope Cemetery Corporation in 1968 where Roberts is buried. Also, an original copy of Col. Roberts original MOLLUS obituary from 1898 is included. At some later date well known dealer, Dave Taylor, acquired the frock coat and sold it to the current owner, the consignor.
This extraordinary frock coat is a classic example of an officer who could afford the best that money could buy. Made by a New York tailor and having the finest appointments, the uniform stands in mute testimony to Colonel Roberts' wealth. The coat bears Tiffany & Co. buttons and ultra-fancy colonel’s shoulder straps with a luxurious (and rare) cross belt baldric bearing the emblem of the State of Maine.
The thirty-two year old Charles Wentworth Roberts (1828-1898) joined the 2nd Maine Infantry as lieutenant colonel on May 2, 1861. He was advanced to colonel on August 29, 1861 and commanded the regiment throughout the 1862 campaign in Virginia. He resigned from the volunteer service on January 1863 making the coat a fairly early war example. The Bowdoin College alum was brevetted Brigadier General on March 13, 1865 “for distinguished conduct at the battle of Hanover Court House, Va.” that occurred on May 27, 1862 during the Peninsula Campaign. After an initial assault by General Porter drove the Confederates from the field, the 2nd Maine and two other New York regiments under General Martindale were left behind to guard the road junction while the rest of Porter’s force pursued the retreating Confederates. This movement exposed Martindale's small force to attack by the bulk of General Branch's North Carolina brigade probing the road, and which Porter had mistakenly assumed was nearby at Hanover Court House. Branch hurried a weak attack that was repelled but a second attack was reinforced and supported by artillery and “Martindale’s force was almost destroyed by the heavy fire.” Union reinforcements were called back and the Confederate line “broke under the weight of the thousands of new troops and they retreated…”
Colonel Roberts returned to Bangor where he became a successful lumber merchant and banker. He died there on October 22, 1898 and was buried in the local Mount Hope Cemetery (Corporation Grounds, Lot 423). This coat is arguably the finest in the collection from a quality standpoint.
Provenance: Mr. John Voss, Mr. Douglas Morr, Mr. Dave Taylor
Condition: No apparent signs of wear. Wool is an excellent shape with 1 noticeable moth hole on left elbow. Lining of jacket is an excellent shape with 3 small holes and tearing at seam in right skirt. Overall condition is excellent.
EST $ 6000 - 9000
The coat belonging to Col. Roberts and other artifacts now missing were owned by a Mr. John Vose of South Portand, ME who sold the frock coat to a Mr. Douglas Morr of Edwardsville, IL in June 1970. A series of five letters dating November 1969 to June 1970 attest to the particulars of the transaction. Mrs. Vose also forwarded to Mr. Morr a booklet entitled Memorial to the Second Maine Regiment of Volunteers published by the Mount Hope Cemetery Corporation in 1968 where Roberts is buried. Also, an original copy of Col. Roberts original MOLLUS obituary from 1898 is included. At some later date well known dealer, Dave Taylor, acquired the frock coat and sold it to the current owner, the consignor.
This extraordinary frock coat is a classic example of an officer who could afford the best that money could buy. Made by a New York tailor and having the finest appointments, the uniform stands in mute testimony to Colonel Roberts' wealth. The coat bears Tiffany & Co. buttons and ultra-fancy colonel’s shoulder straps with a luxurious (and rare) cross belt baldric bearing the emblem of the State of Maine.
The thirty-two year old Charles Wentworth Roberts (1828-1898) joined the 2nd Maine Infantry as lieutenant colonel on May 2, 1861. He was advanced to colonel on August 29, 1861 and commanded the regiment throughout the 1862 campaign in Virginia. He resigned from the volunteer service on January 1863 making the coat a fairly early war example. The Bowdoin College alum was brevetted Brigadier General on March 13, 1865 “for distinguished conduct at the battle of Hanover Court House, Va.” that occurred on May 27, 1862 during the Peninsula Campaign. After an initial assault by General Porter drove the Confederates from the field, the 2nd Maine and two other New York regiments under General Martindale were left behind to guard the road junction while the rest of Porter’s force pursued the retreating Confederates. This movement exposed Martindale's small force to attack by the bulk of General Branch's North Carolina brigade probing the road, and which Porter had mistakenly assumed was nearby at Hanover Court House. Branch hurried a weak attack that was repelled but a second attack was reinforced and supported by artillery and “Martindale’s force was almost destroyed by the heavy fire.” Union reinforcements were called back and the Confederate line “broke under the weight of the thousands of new troops and they retreated…”
Colonel Roberts returned to Bangor where he became a successful lumber merchant and banker. He died there on October 22, 1898 and was buried in the local Mount Hope Cemetery (Corporation Grounds, Lot 423). This coat is arguably the finest in the collection from a quality standpoint.
Provenance: Mr. John Voss, Mr. Douglas Morr, Mr. Dave Taylor
Condition: No apparent signs of wear. Wool is an excellent shape with 1 noticeable moth hole on left elbow. Lining of jacket is an excellent shape with 3 small holes and tearing at seam in right skirt. Overall condition is excellent.
EST $ 6000 - 9000
Civil War Double-Breasted Frock Coat Worn by Col. Charles B. Stoughton, 4th VT Infantry
Lot # 6 (Sale Order: 6 of 566)
A superior dark blue-black wool colonel of infantry seven-button double-breasted frock coat with matching buttons marked "D. Evans & Co." Shoulder straps are navy cloth material with double border and silver embroidered eagle. Cuffs are serviceable. Skirt is 19" to rough edge. Bell-shaped elbows measure 9" in width. Coat is noticeably "wasp-waisted," made for a officer of demure size. Inside lining of coat is black with wide quilted pattern in chest. White lining in sleeves. Inside piped chest pocket on left side. The lining of the collar is black velvet. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent with two buttons at the top of the vent and two in the middle of the vent. The "Evans" button missing in the photograph is accounted for.
Accompanying the coat is a comprehensive notarized letter of provenance dated "4/27/99" signed by Susan Laura Stoughton Bell, a family descendant and former owner. Colonel Stoughton's effects including this frock coat (Lot 35) were sold by Vagabond Auctioneers on April 3, 1999. The coat passed through the hands of at least two parties before being purchased by the consignor. Additionally, several conveyance documents including the original Bill of Sale to the consignor are included.
Charles Bradley Stoughton (1841-1898) was a noble soldier who commanded a fighting regiment in the famed Vermont Brigade and spent much of the war winning back the family honor after his older brother, Edwin H. Stoughton, was cashiered. From Rockingham, the young Stoughton enlisted in the 4th Vermont as 1st Lieutenant & Adjutant on August 1, 1861. Thereafter, his exploits were inextricably linked to the unequaled fighting qualities of his state’s namesake brigade highlighted by his own daring and élan.
Stoughton was promoted to Major prior to the Peninsula Campaign and was present in all of the regiment’s battles that harkened his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel on July 17, 1862. At South Mountain he led a charge that captured 121 men and the colors of the 15th Virginia Infantry.” He fought at Antietam and was promoted to Colonel on November 15, 1862 when his brother was advanced to Brigadier General. Colonel Stoughton led the regiment at Fredericksburg on December 13, 1862 where the 4th Vermont suffered heavy casualties, later reporting: My colors were completed riddled with canister and musket balls. Scarcely hanging together. The top of the staff, upon which is a brass eagle, was shot away by canister, but saved and brought away.
In March 1863 the hapless General Edwin Stoughton was captured in his night clothes at Fairfax Court House during a daring raid by the grey cavalier, John Mosby. General Stoughton was later cashiered. Thereafter, Charles brazenly took it upon himself to assuage the family honor. He fought at Chancellorsville and led the regiment at Gettysburg. During the lackadaisical pursuit of Lee’s army after Gettysburg, Colonel Stoughton was severely wounded on July 10 in a sharp engagement at Funkstown, Maryland losing his right eye. The wound forced Stoughton to resign his commission on February 2, 1864.
Colonel Stoughton received a brevet brigadier’s star on March 13, 1865 “for faithful and meritorious service” during the war. Stoughton married and lived in Bellows Falls, Vermont after the war practicing law. He died on January 17, 1898 and is buried in Immanuel Cemetery in Bellows Falls.
Provenance: Descended in the family to Jon Feazell to S. Meadow to Consignor
Condition: Backed left elbow has hole. Small moth holes on center of back, lower skirt on each side and 2 on the back right elbow. Back of collar has 3 holes. Wool shows signs of thinning in a couple areas of the back. Several holes on the right skirt including the rough edge. Several moth holes on left skirt. Mothing on shoulders and collar. 2 holes on the chest and the 3rd button from top on right side is missing. The inside lining has strong signs of wear holes throughout the waist line and shoulders. The velvet part of collar shows wear. Overall condition is fair.
EST $ 5000 - 7000
Accompanying the coat is a comprehensive notarized letter of provenance dated "4/27/99" signed by Susan Laura Stoughton Bell, a family descendant and former owner. Colonel Stoughton's effects including this frock coat (Lot 35) were sold by Vagabond Auctioneers on April 3, 1999. The coat passed through the hands of at least two parties before being purchased by the consignor. Additionally, several conveyance documents including the original Bill of Sale to the consignor are included.
Charles Bradley Stoughton (1841-1898) was a noble soldier who commanded a fighting regiment in the famed Vermont Brigade and spent much of the war winning back the family honor after his older brother, Edwin H. Stoughton, was cashiered. From Rockingham, the young Stoughton enlisted in the 4th Vermont as 1st Lieutenant & Adjutant on August 1, 1861. Thereafter, his exploits were inextricably linked to the unequaled fighting qualities of his state’s namesake brigade highlighted by his own daring and élan.
Stoughton was promoted to Major prior to the Peninsula Campaign and was present in all of the regiment’s battles that harkened his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel on July 17, 1862. At South Mountain he led a charge that captured 121 men and the colors of the 15th Virginia Infantry.” He fought at Antietam and was promoted to Colonel on November 15, 1862 when his brother was advanced to Brigadier General. Colonel Stoughton led the regiment at Fredericksburg on December 13, 1862 where the 4th Vermont suffered heavy casualties, later reporting: My colors were completed riddled with canister and musket balls. Scarcely hanging together. The top of the staff, upon which is a brass eagle, was shot away by canister, but saved and brought away.
In March 1863 the hapless General Edwin Stoughton was captured in his night clothes at Fairfax Court House during a daring raid by the grey cavalier, John Mosby. General Stoughton was later cashiered. Thereafter, Charles brazenly took it upon himself to assuage the family honor. He fought at Chancellorsville and led the regiment at Gettysburg. During the lackadaisical pursuit of Lee’s army after Gettysburg, Colonel Stoughton was severely wounded on July 10 in a sharp engagement at Funkstown, Maryland losing his right eye. The wound forced Stoughton to resign his commission on February 2, 1864.
Colonel Stoughton received a brevet brigadier’s star on March 13, 1865 “for faithful and meritorious service” during the war. Stoughton married and lived in Bellows Falls, Vermont after the war practicing law. He died on January 17, 1898 and is buried in Immanuel Cemetery in Bellows Falls.
Provenance: Descended in the family to Jon Feazell to S. Meadow to Consignor
Condition: Backed left elbow has hole. Small moth holes on center of back, lower skirt on each side and 2 on the back right elbow. Back of collar has 3 holes. Wool shows signs of thinning in a couple areas of the back. Several holes on the right skirt including the rough edge. Several moth holes on left skirt. Mothing on shoulders and collar. 2 holes on the chest and the 3rd button from top on right side is missing. The inside lining has strong signs of wear holes throughout the waist line and shoulders. The velvet part of collar shows wear. Overall condition is fair.
EST $ 5000 - 7000
Civil War Major Medical Officer's Frock Coat
Lot # 7 (Sale Order: 7 of 566)
Fine navy blue wool seven-button double-breasted Major Medical Officer's frock coat. Buttons are marked "Extra Quality." Shoulder straps of navy cloth material with gold bullion border, gold oak leaves and gold "M.S." in middle of shoulder straps. Three button serviceable cuffs. Lining of coat is dark olive green with red sleeves. Lining is a wide quilted pattern in chest and under arms. Skirt measures 20.5" to rough edge with belled elbows measuring 9" in width. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle. The frock coat is unidentified, but there is an unusual drawing of a castle inside one of the sleeves. Taken literally it may infer that the unknown staff grade officer was attached to one of the larger engineer organizations raised during the war. The roster of Engineer Regiments included the 1st Michigan, 1st Ohio, 1st Missouri, 1st, 15th, and 50th NY, 1st Veteran Volunteer Engineers, and 1st Battalion Regular Engineers.
Provenance: T. Haas to Consignor 2006
Condition: Signs of mothing on shoulders and collar of coat including several moth holes on front right chest. Some moth holes on right skirt and missing first button on skirt line. A couple small moth holes on each sleeve. Several moth holes on back of coat. Lining of coat shows wear with a long horizontal repair at waist line. Overall condition is good. This is a rare Civil War Medical Officer's frock coat.
EST $ 6000 - 8000
Provenance: T. Haas to Consignor 2006
Condition: Signs of mothing on shoulders and collar of coat including several moth holes on front right chest. Some moth holes on right skirt and missing first button on skirt line. A couple small moth holes on each sleeve. Several moth holes on back of coat. Lining of coat shows wear with a long horizontal repair at waist line. Overall condition is good. This is a rare Civil War Medical Officer's frock coat.
EST $ 6000 - 8000
Civil War Cavalry Frock Coat Worn by Capt. Samuel N. Titus, 11th PA Cavalry
Lot # 8 (Sale Order: 8 of 566)
An outstanding navy blue wool nine-button single-breasted captain's frock coat identified to Samuel N. Titus who became Major, 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry. Coat with serviceable cuffs. Shoulder straps are yellow cloth with double row gold bullion border and captain's bars. The lining of the coat is typical dark olive with a close quilted pattern through chest and under arms. Sleeves are lined in white with rare cloth tailor's tag on inside left arm marked: "T. McCormick, Merchant Tailor, Baltimore, 149 Baltimore Street." Written In period ink on the tailor's label is: "Lt. Titus, Portsmouth, Va." Titus held this rank until being promoted captain in June 1864 and likely wore this coat with new straps until being promoted to major in October 1864. Left inside chest pocket piped. Inside cloth belt with brass buckle. Skirt is 20" to rough edge and 10" bell-shaped elbows. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of the vent.
Accompanying the frock coat is a file that includes a photocopied / transcribed newspaper article from 1917 announcing Samuel Titus' 80th Birthday reception recounting his long life and giving excellent details of his extensive military service. Also four pages of copied genealogy listing his "Maternal lineage" along with National Archives military and pension records. Additionally, there is significant information relating to Samuel Titus found Online.
Samuel Nye Titus (1837-1821) joined the 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry as Sergeant, Co. M., on August 26 1861 and was quickly promoted to 1st Lieutenant in October. He rode during the Peninsula Campaign and later served under Generals Butler, Burnside, Custer, Kilpatrick in the various campaigns in eastern Virginia and North Carolina. Recently promoted Major on October 1, 1864, Titus was severely wounded at Darbytown Road on October 7, 1864 and captured. A lively biography published in the November 19, 1917 edition of the Marion Ohio Tribune related: Major Titus witnessed and participated in some noted battles of the Civil War. He saw the Cumberland sunk, and the Congress blown up by the Merrimac…(He) was wounded several times, the most serious wound being received on October 7, 1864, when his right arm was shattered and at the same time he was captured, taken prisoner and confined in Libby Prison. Quickly exchanged, Major Titus was hospitalized and later brevetted Colonel for bravery at Darbytown Rd. Released from the hospital just before Christmas 1864, Titus was invalided home and never returned to duty being discharged for wounds on March 11, 1865.
After the war Samuel Titus lived in Marion County, Ohio engaged in farming and stock raising. He attained prominence and was elected to two terms in the Ohio State Legislature, served as deputy postmaster, and was still active as a probation officer well into his late 70’s. A Mason, he was also a member of the Cooper Post, Marion, Ohio, GAR, and served a single term as Senior-Vice-Commander of Ohio.
Samuel N. Titus answered the final roll call on March 1, 1921. The newspaper said of him: (He) is noted for his reticence in discussing his Civil War service. With a splendid record of accomplishments and bravery back of him to be intensely proud of, he might well boast of military honors. But on the contrary he is never heard to mention them… Such is often a genuine hero.
Provenance: D. Taylor to Consignor 2004
Condition: Front of coat shows signs of wear and stains on both sides of chest and skirts. Signs of mothing on front of coat, shoulders and collar. Few moth holes on each side of skirt and sleeves. Small tear on first button hole from skirt. Mothing and moth holes on back of coat. Tear on left button at center vent. Wool on back of coat shows signs of wear and stains. Small repair on back of right shoulder. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 5000 - 7000
Accompanying the frock coat is a file that includes a photocopied / transcribed newspaper article from 1917 announcing Samuel Titus' 80th Birthday reception recounting his long life and giving excellent details of his extensive military service. Also four pages of copied genealogy listing his "Maternal lineage" along with National Archives military and pension records. Additionally, there is significant information relating to Samuel Titus found Online.
Samuel Nye Titus (1837-1821) joined the 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry as Sergeant, Co. M., on August 26 1861 and was quickly promoted to 1st Lieutenant in October. He rode during the Peninsula Campaign and later served under Generals Butler, Burnside, Custer, Kilpatrick in the various campaigns in eastern Virginia and North Carolina. Recently promoted Major on October 1, 1864, Titus was severely wounded at Darbytown Road on October 7, 1864 and captured. A lively biography published in the November 19, 1917 edition of the Marion Ohio Tribune related: Major Titus witnessed and participated in some noted battles of the Civil War. He saw the Cumberland sunk, and the Congress blown up by the Merrimac…(He) was wounded several times, the most serious wound being received on October 7, 1864, when his right arm was shattered and at the same time he was captured, taken prisoner and confined in Libby Prison. Quickly exchanged, Major Titus was hospitalized and later brevetted Colonel for bravery at Darbytown Rd. Released from the hospital just before Christmas 1864, Titus was invalided home and never returned to duty being discharged for wounds on March 11, 1865.
After the war Samuel Titus lived in Marion County, Ohio engaged in farming and stock raising. He attained prominence and was elected to two terms in the Ohio State Legislature, served as deputy postmaster, and was still active as a probation officer well into his late 70’s. A Mason, he was also a member of the Cooper Post, Marion, Ohio, GAR, and served a single term as Senior-Vice-Commander of Ohio.
Samuel N. Titus answered the final roll call on March 1, 1921. The newspaper said of him: (He) is noted for his reticence in discussing his Civil War service. With a splendid record of accomplishments and bravery back of him to be intensely proud of, he might well boast of military honors. But on the contrary he is never heard to mention them… Such is often a genuine hero.
Provenance: D. Taylor to Consignor 2004
Condition: Front of coat shows signs of wear and stains on both sides of chest and skirts. Signs of mothing on front of coat, shoulders and collar. Few moth holes on each side of skirt and sleeves. Small tear on first button hole from skirt. Mothing and moth holes on back of coat. Tear on left button at center vent. Wool on back of coat shows signs of wear and stains. Small repair on back of right shoulder. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 5000 - 7000
Civil War Cavalry Officer's Nine-Button Frock Coat Belonging to Capt. Henry B. Hays, 6th US Cavalry
Lot # 9 (Sale Order: 9 of 566)
Heavy navy blue wool cavalry officer's nine-button single-breasted frock coat with "Smith's Patent" captain shoulder straps and custom captain cuff braids in black silk. Gilt buttons are marked "Schuyler Hartley & Graham N.Y." Skirt measures 19.5" to rough edge. Bell-shaped elbows measuring 9.5". Back of coat has custom braiding right below the color and above the center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of the vent. Coat has three-button non-serviceable cuffs. The lining is a very dark olive, almost charcoal in color with a close quilt pattern throughout the chest and shoulders. Sleeves are lined in white and collar is lined in black velvet. On the left inside of jacket there is a leather belt with brass clip (right side missing). Marked on the inside of right sleeve in ink : "Captain H. B. Hayes 6th Cavalry U.S. Army."
Henry Blake Hays (1829-1881) was a Pennsylvania-born diplomat, soldier, and wealthy coal baron whose extensive business interests encompassed banking, mining and railroads. Hays is best remembered for opening up the coal fields of Allegheny region and by extension building the system of narrow gauge railroads that efficiently transported the coal from the mines to the market.
Trained as a Civil Engineer, Henry Hays started his career as a diplomat. In 1850 he was was appointed attaché to the American Legation in Copenhagen later serving a private secretary to the US Minister to Denmark. Thanks to his linguistic ability, Hays traveled far afield during his early diplomatic career visiting the cities of the Byzantine Holy Land, exotic Egypt, and the Russia Empire in the wake of the Crimean War. In 1857 he returned home to employ his civil engineering credentials and immediately set to work building narrow gauge railroads as the coal industry sat posed on the cusp of expansion.
With the advent of the Civil War Henry Hays used his connections to obtain a regular commission as Captain in the 3rd US Cavalry in May 1861 which was rejected on the grounds of seniority by the Senate. On August 5, 1861 Hay’s was reappointed Captain in the newly organized 6th US Cavalry then being raised at Pittsburgh, but prevaricated and took over a month to accept. During Hays’ tenure the regiment served exclusively in the Army of the Potomac participating in over one hundred fifteen engagements including every notable fight and raid undertaken by the ardent troopers of Cavalry Corps. The Northern press soon became enamored by the exploits of the Cavalry Corps where glory abounded amidst reputations that ebbed and flowed among its flamboyant crop of leaders.
Hays must have speculatively been perceived as something of an outsider—an untried regular—as he remained in Pittsburgh on recruiting duty until January 1862 and periodically thereafter as mustering and disbursing officer posted to less glowing administrative duties according to his Military Record (1873). However, Hays’ Dictionary of American Biography reads differently—as if it were embellished— asserting that he was present with the 6th Cavalry from “Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, Hanover Court House, where he was recommended for promotion, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Culpepper Court House, Upperville, Chancellorsville , Brandy Station and Beverly Ford. Unfortunately, Hay’s National Archive military records seem never to have been acquired.
The records agree that Captain Hays served on the Staff of General Pleasanton from October 1863 until July 1864. A well published Brady view of Hays sporting a luxuriant mustache in the company of Pleasanton and with other staff members illustrates that Hays deliberately stood out. The captain’s uniform coat sports non-regulation sleeve braiding with a large shield badge. He wears the mother of all slough hats, a Texas-style wide brimmed slouch hat with fashionable upturned sides featuring a target-sized oval embroidered crossed sabers insignia. The Official Records prove that Pleasanton though very highly of Captain Hays when the general later wrote to the Secretary of War: “A very gallant and deserving gentlemen, who served throughout the late rebellion in the regular army and has since resigned; was so distinguished for his zeal, ability and great gallantry that I beg respectfully to recommend his case for the following brevets…” The Dictionary of American Biography further asserts that Hays was awarded “gallantry” brevets for the Peninsula Campaign, Antietam, and Gettysburg, adding that General McClellan had previously recommended that he be brevetted for “gallantry” at Williamsburg. Not one of these brevets are confirmed in Heitman or the Military Record.
Nothing in the short file of post-war paperwork that accompanies his resignation letter supports the multitude of battlefield claims and brevets excepting one endorsed by General Pleasanton, and never acted upon.
Henry Blake Hays (1829-1881) was a Pennsylvania-born diplomat, soldier, and wealthy coal baron whose extensive business interests encompassed banking, mining and railroads. Hays is best remembered for opening up the coal fields of Allegheny region and by extension building the system of narrow gauge railroads that efficiently transported the coal from the mines to the market.
Trained as a Civil Engineer, Henry Hays started his career as a diplomat. In 1850 he was was appointed attaché to the American Legation in Copenhagen later serving a private secretary to the US Minister to Denmark. Thanks to his linguistic ability, Hays traveled far afield during his early diplomatic career visiting the cities of the Byzantine Holy Land, exotic Egypt, and the Russia Empire in the wake of the Crimean War. In 1857 he returned home to employ his civil engineering credentials and immediately set to work building narrow gauge railroads as the coal industry sat posed on the cusp of expansion.
With the advent of the Civil War Henry Hays used his connections to obtain a regular commission as Captain in the 3rd US Cavalry in May 1861 which was rejected on the grounds of seniority by the Senate. On August 5, 1861 Hay’s was reappointed Captain in the newly organized 6th US Cavalry then being raised at Pittsburgh, but prevaricated and took over a month to accept. During Hays’ tenure the regiment served exclusively in the Army of the Potomac participating in over one hundred fifteen engagements including every notable fight and raid undertaken by the ardent troopers of Cavalry Corps. The Northern press soon became enamored by the exploits of the Cavalry Corps where glory abounded amidst reputations that ebbed and flowed among its flamboyant crop of leaders.
Hays must have speculatively been perceived as something of an outsider—an untried regular—as he remained in Pittsburgh on recruiting duty until January 1862 and periodically thereafter as mustering and disbursing officer posted to less glowing administrative duties according to his Military Record (1873). However, Hays’ Dictionary of American Biography reads differently—as if it were embellished— asserting that he was present with the 6th Cavalry from “Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, Hanover Court House, where he was recommended for promotion, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Culpepper Court House, Upperville, Chancellorsville , Brandy Station and Beverly Ford. Unfortunately, Hay’s National Archive military records seem never to have been acquired.
The records agree that Captain Hays served on the Staff of General Pleasanton from October 1863 until July 1864. A well published Brady view of Hays sporting a luxuriant mustache in the company of Pleasanton and with other staff members illustrates that Hays deliberately stood out. The captain’s uniform coat sports non-regulation sleeve braiding with a large shield badge. He wears the mother of all slough hats, a Texas-style wide brimmed slouch hat with fashionable upturned sides featuring a target-sized oval embroidered crossed sabers insignia. The Official Records prove that Pleasanton though very highly of Captain Hays when the general later wrote to the Secretary of War: “A very gallant and deserving gentlemen, who served throughout the late rebellion in the regular army and has since resigned; was so distinguished for his zeal, ability and great gallantry that I beg respectfully to recommend his case for the following brevets…” The Dictionary of American Biography further asserts that Hays was awarded “gallantry” brevets for the Peninsula Campaign, Antietam, and Gettysburg, adding that General McClellan had previously recommended that he be brevetted for “gallantry” at Williamsburg. Not one of these brevets are confirmed in Heitman or the Military Record.
Nothing in the short file of post-war paperwork that accompanies his resignation letter supports the multitude of battlefield claims and brevets excepting one endorsed by General Pleasanton, and never acted upon.
Outstanding Private Purchase Officer's Overcoat Worn by Capt. Henry B. Hays, 6th US Cavalry
Lot # 10 (Sale Order: 10 of 566)
Blue wool seven-button double-breasted tailor-made officer's overcoat and cape made for "Henry Blake Hays, 6th US Cavalry," as marked in ink on right sleeve. Buttons are marked "Schuyler, Hartley, Graham, N.Y." Sleeves have custom black non-regulation braiding favored by Hays based on period photographs. Cuffs are plain with no buttons. Skirt measures 20.5" to rough edge and elbows are bell-shaped at 9" in width. Coat and sleeves are lined in white with wide quilted pattern under arms. Piped inside left chest pocket. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has single button at the middle of vent. Original cape is attached to collar by five black buttons and lined in white. This is one of three uniform lots belonging to this officer.
Heavy navy blue wool cavalry officer's nine-button single-breasted frock coat with "Smith's Patent" captain shoulder straps and custom captain cuff braids in black silk. Gilt buttons are marked "Schuyler Hartley & Graham N.Y." Skirt measures 19.5" to rough edge. Bell-shaped elbows measuring 9.5". Back of coat has custom braiding right below the color and above the center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of the vent. Coat has three-button non-serviceable cuffs. The lining is a very dark olive, almost charcoal in color with a close quilt pattern throughout the chest and shoulders. Sleeves are lined in white and collar is lined in black velvet. On the left inside of jacket there is a leather belt with brass clip (right side missing). Marked on the inside of right sleeve in ink : "Captain H. B. Hayes 6th Cavalry U.S. Army."
Henry Blake Hays (1829-1881) was a Pennsylvania-born diplomat, soldier, and wealthy coal baron whose extensive business interests encompassed banking, mining and railroads. Hays is best remembered for opening up the coal fields of Allegheny region and by extension building the system of narrow gauge railroads that efficiently transported the coal from the mines to the market.
Trained as a Civil Engineer, Henry Hays started his career as a diplomat. In 1850 he was was appointed attaché to the American Legation in Copenhagen later serving a private secretary to the US Minister to Denmark. Thanks to his linguistic ability, Hays traveled far afield during his early diplomatic career visiting the cities of the Byzantine Holy Land, exotic Egypt, and the Russia Empire in the wake of the Crimean War. In 1857 he returned home to employ his civil engineering credentials and immediately set to work building narrow gauge railroads as the coal industry sat posed on the cusp of expansion.
With the advent of the Civil War Henry Hays used his connections to obtain a regular commission as Captain in the 3rd US Cavalry in May 1861 which was rejected on the grounds of seniority by the Senate. On August 5, 1861 Hay’s was reappointed Captain in the newly organized 6th US Cavalry then being raised at Pittsburgh, but prevaricated and took over a month to accept. During Hays’ tenure the regiment served exclusively in the Army of the Potomac participating in over one hundred fifteen engagements including every notable fight and raid undertaken by the ardent troopers of Cavalry Corps. The Northern press soon became enamored by the exploits of the Cavalry Corps where glory abounded amidst reputations that ebbed and flowed among its flamboyant crop of leaders.
Hays must have speculatively been perceived as something of an outsider—an untried regular—as he remained in Pittsburgh on recruiting duty until January 1862 and periodically thereafter as mustering and disbursing officer posted to less glowing administrative duties according to his Military Record (1873). However, Hays’ Dictionary of American Biography reads differently—as if it were embellished— asserting that he was present with the 6th Cavalry from “Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, Hanover Court House, where he was recommended for promotion, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Culpepper Court House, Upperville, Chancellorsville , Brandy Station and Beverly Ford. Unfortunately, Hay’s National Archive military records seem never to have been acquired.
The records agree that Captain Hays served on the Staff of General Pleasanton from October 1863 until July 1864. A well published Brady view of Hays sporting a luxuriant mustache in the company of Pleasanton and with other staff members illustrates that Hays deliberately stood out. The captain’s uniform coat sports non-regulation sleeve braiding with a large shield badge. He wears the mother of all slough hats, a Texas-style wide brimmed slouch hat with fashionable upturned sides featuring a target-sized oval embroidered crossed sabers insignia. The Official Records prove that Pleasanton though very highly of Captain Hays when the general later wrote to the Secretary of War:
Heavy navy blue wool cavalry officer's nine-button single-breasted frock coat with "Smith's Patent" captain shoulder straps and custom captain cuff braids in black silk. Gilt buttons are marked "Schuyler Hartley & Graham N.Y." Skirt measures 19.5" to rough edge. Bell-shaped elbows measuring 9.5". Back of coat has custom braiding right below the color and above the center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of the vent. Coat has three-button non-serviceable cuffs. The lining is a very dark olive, almost charcoal in color with a close quilt pattern throughout the chest and shoulders. Sleeves are lined in white and collar is lined in black velvet. On the left inside of jacket there is a leather belt with brass clip (right side missing). Marked on the inside of right sleeve in ink : "Captain H. B. Hayes 6th Cavalry U.S. Army."
Henry Blake Hays (1829-1881) was a Pennsylvania-born diplomat, soldier, and wealthy coal baron whose extensive business interests encompassed banking, mining and railroads. Hays is best remembered for opening up the coal fields of Allegheny region and by extension building the system of narrow gauge railroads that efficiently transported the coal from the mines to the market.
Trained as a Civil Engineer, Henry Hays started his career as a diplomat. In 1850 he was was appointed attaché to the American Legation in Copenhagen later serving a private secretary to the US Minister to Denmark. Thanks to his linguistic ability, Hays traveled far afield during his early diplomatic career visiting the cities of the Byzantine Holy Land, exotic Egypt, and the Russia Empire in the wake of the Crimean War. In 1857 he returned home to employ his civil engineering credentials and immediately set to work building narrow gauge railroads as the coal industry sat posed on the cusp of expansion.
With the advent of the Civil War Henry Hays used his connections to obtain a regular commission as Captain in the 3rd US Cavalry in May 1861 which was rejected on the grounds of seniority by the Senate. On August 5, 1861 Hay’s was reappointed Captain in the newly organized 6th US Cavalry then being raised at Pittsburgh, but prevaricated and took over a month to accept. During Hays’ tenure the regiment served exclusively in the Army of the Potomac participating in over one hundred fifteen engagements including every notable fight and raid undertaken by the ardent troopers of Cavalry Corps. The Northern press soon became enamored by the exploits of the Cavalry Corps where glory abounded amidst reputations that ebbed and flowed among its flamboyant crop of leaders.
Hays must have speculatively been perceived as something of an outsider—an untried regular—as he remained in Pittsburgh on recruiting duty until January 1862 and periodically thereafter as mustering and disbursing officer posted to less glowing administrative duties according to his Military Record (1873). However, Hays’ Dictionary of American Biography reads differently—as if it were embellished— asserting that he was present with the 6th Cavalry from “Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, Hanover Court House, where he was recommended for promotion, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Culpepper Court House, Upperville, Chancellorsville , Brandy Station and Beverly Ford. Unfortunately, Hay’s National Archive military records seem never to have been acquired.
The records agree that Captain Hays served on the Staff of General Pleasanton from October 1863 until July 1864. A well published Brady view of Hays sporting a luxuriant mustache in the company of Pleasanton and with other staff members illustrates that Hays deliberately stood out. The captain’s uniform coat sports non-regulation sleeve braiding with a large shield badge. He wears the mother of all slough hats, a Texas-style wide brimmed slouch hat with fashionable upturned sides featuring a target-sized oval embroidered crossed sabers insignia. The Official Records prove that Pleasanton though very highly of Captain Hays when the general later wrote to the Secretary of War:
Military Vest and CDV of Capt. Henry B. Hay, 6th US Cavalry
Lot # 11 (Sale Order: 11 of 566)
Hay's outstanding blue wool military vest in pristine condition along with a wartime CDV of the captain possibly wearing the nine button frock coat being sold as Lot 9. Vest of typical cut with nine razor sharp cuff sized gilded eagle "C" marked "Paris T.W. & W." Vest with two outside pockets on the left and one on the right lined in a brown polish cotton. Interior lined in white polished cotton, the back in dark polish cotton all in perfect condition except for some minor staining underneath the arm pits.
The vignette CDV by Porter's Gallery, Cincinnati depicts Hays wearing his military frock coat unbuttoned at top revealing a silk cravat and vest underneath. The flamboyant captains sports a mustache of epic length said to have been the most "luxuriant mustache in the army."
Heavy navy blue wool cavalry officer's nine-button single-breasted frock coat with "Smith's Patent" captain shoulder straps and custom captain cuff braids in black silk. Gilt buttons are marked "Schuyler Hartley & Graham N.Y." Skirt measures 19.5" to rough edge. Bell-shaped elbows measuring 9.5". Back of coat has custom braiding right below the color and above the center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of the vent. Coat has three-button non-serviceable cuffs. The lining is a very dark olive, almost charcoal in color with a close quilt pattern throughout the chest and shoulders. Sleeves are lined in white and collar is lined in black velvet. On the left inside of jacket there is a leather belt with brass clip (right side missing). Marked on the inside of right sleeve in ink : "Captain H. B. Hayes 6th Cavalry U.S. Army."
Henry Blake Hays (1829-1881) was a Pennsylvania-born diplomat, soldier, and wealthy coal baron whose extensive business interests encompassed banking, mining and railroads. Hays is best remembered for opening up the coal fields of Allegheny region and by extension building the system of narrow gauge railroads that efficiently transported the coal from the mines to the market.
Trained as a Civil Engineer, Henry Hays started his career as a diplomat. In 1850 he was was appointed attaché to the American Legation in Copenhagen later serving a private secretary to the US Minister to Denmark. Thanks to his linguistic ability, Hays traveled far afield during his early diplomatic career visiting the cities of the Byzantine Holy Land, exotic Egypt, and the Russia Empire in the wake of the Crimean War. In 1857 he returned home to employ his civil engineering credentials and immediately set to work building narrow gauge railroads as the coal industry sat posed on the cusp of expansion.
With the advent of the Civil War Henry Hays used his connections to obtain a regular commission as Captain in the 3rd US Cavalry in May 1861 which was rejected on the grounds of seniority by the Senate. On August 5, 1861 Hay’s was reappointed Captain in the newly organized 6th US Cavalry then being raised at Pittsburgh, but prevaricated and took over a month to accept. During Hays’ tenure the regiment served exclusively in the Army of the Potomac participating in over one hundred fifteen engagements including every notable fight and raid undertaken by the ardent troopers of Cavalry Corps. The Northern press soon became enamored by the exploits of the Cavalry Corps where glory abounded amidst reputations that ebbed and flowed among its flamboyant crop of leaders.
Hays must have speculatively been perceived as something of an outsider—an untried regular—as he remained in Pittsburgh on recruiting duty until January 1862 and periodically thereafter as mustering and disbursing officer posted to less glowing administrative duties according to his Military Record (1873). However, Hays’ Dictionary of American Biography reads differently—as if it were embellished— asserting that he was present with the 6th Cavalry from “Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, Hanover Court House, where he was recommended for promotion, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Culpepper Court House, Upperville, Chancellorsville , Brandy Station and Beverly Ford. Unfortunately, Hay’s National Archive military records seem never to have been acquired.
The records agree that Captain Hays served on the Staff of General Pleasanton from October 1863 until July 1864. A well published Brady view of Hays sporting a luxuriant mustache in the company of Pleasanton and with other staff members illustrates that Hays deliberately stood out. The captain’s uniform coat sports non-regulation sleeve braiding with a large shield badge. He wears the mother of all slough hats, a Texas-style wide brimmed slouch hat with fashionable upturned sides featuring a target-sized oval embroidered crossed sabers insignia. The Official Records prove that Pleasanton though very highly of Captain Hays when the general later wrote to the Secretary of War:
The vignette CDV by Porter's Gallery, Cincinnati depicts Hays wearing his military frock coat unbuttoned at top revealing a silk cravat and vest underneath. The flamboyant captains sports a mustache of epic length said to have been the most "luxuriant mustache in the army."
Heavy navy blue wool cavalry officer's nine-button single-breasted frock coat with "Smith's Patent" captain shoulder straps and custom captain cuff braids in black silk. Gilt buttons are marked "Schuyler Hartley & Graham N.Y." Skirt measures 19.5" to rough edge. Bell-shaped elbows measuring 9.5". Back of coat has custom braiding right below the color and above the center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of the vent. Coat has three-button non-serviceable cuffs. The lining is a very dark olive, almost charcoal in color with a close quilt pattern throughout the chest and shoulders. Sleeves are lined in white and collar is lined in black velvet. On the left inside of jacket there is a leather belt with brass clip (right side missing). Marked on the inside of right sleeve in ink : "Captain H. B. Hayes 6th Cavalry U.S. Army."
Henry Blake Hays (1829-1881) was a Pennsylvania-born diplomat, soldier, and wealthy coal baron whose extensive business interests encompassed banking, mining and railroads. Hays is best remembered for opening up the coal fields of Allegheny region and by extension building the system of narrow gauge railroads that efficiently transported the coal from the mines to the market.
Trained as a Civil Engineer, Henry Hays started his career as a diplomat. In 1850 he was was appointed attaché to the American Legation in Copenhagen later serving a private secretary to the US Minister to Denmark. Thanks to his linguistic ability, Hays traveled far afield during his early diplomatic career visiting the cities of the Byzantine Holy Land, exotic Egypt, and the Russia Empire in the wake of the Crimean War. In 1857 he returned home to employ his civil engineering credentials and immediately set to work building narrow gauge railroads as the coal industry sat posed on the cusp of expansion.
With the advent of the Civil War Henry Hays used his connections to obtain a regular commission as Captain in the 3rd US Cavalry in May 1861 which was rejected on the grounds of seniority by the Senate. On August 5, 1861 Hay’s was reappointed Captain in the newly organized 6th US Cavalry then being raised at Pittsburgh, but prevaricated and took over a month to accept. During Hays’ tenure the regiment served exclusively in the Army of the Potomac participating in over one hundred fifteen engagements including every notable fight and raid undertaken by the ardent troopers of Cavalry Corps. The Northern press soon became enamored by the exploits of the Cavalry Corps where glory abounded amidst reputations that ebbed and flowed among its flamboyant crop of leaders.
Hays must have speculatively been perceived as something of an outsider—an untried regular—as he remained in Pittsburgh on recruiting duty until January 1862 and periodically thereafter as mustering and disbursing officer posted to less glowing administrative duties according to his Military Record (1873). However, Hays’ Dictionary of American Biography reads differently—as if it were embellished— asserting that he was present with the 6th Cavalry from “Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, Hanover Court House, where he was recommended for promotion, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Culpepper Court House, Upperville, Chancellorsville , Brandy Station and Beverly Ford. Unfortunately, Hay’s National Archive military records seem never to have been acquired.
The records agree that Captain Hays served on the Staff of General Pleasanton from October 1863 until July 1864. A well published Brady view of Hays sporting a luxuriant mustache in the company of Pleasanton and with other staff members illustrates that Hays deliberately stood out. The captain’s uniform coat sports non-regulation sleeve braiding with a large shield badge. He wears the mother of all slough hats, a Texas-style wide brimmed slouch hat with fashionable upturned sides featuring a target-sized oval embroidered crossed sabers insignia. The Official Records prove that Pleasanton though very highly of Captain Hays when the general later wrote to the Secretary of War:
Civil War Cavalry Captain's Fatique Jacket
Lot # 12 (Sale Order: 12 of 566)
Single-breasted shell jacket of dark navy wool with 9 staff officers' buttons All buttons marked "Extra Quality." Dark medium olive green lining with white lined sleeves. Inside coat has two breast piped inlay pockets, one on each side. Large quilted pattern. Shoulder straps are extra fancy "Smith's Patent" with double border over yellow background and brass captain bars. Elbows measure 9.5" in width. Private purchase coat is completely edged in custom black lace trim. Brocade lace collar has two lines of black piping top and bottom leading to a single black line of piping down the center of the coat. Each sleeve has three black lines circling the cuffs. Several examples of short officer's fatigue-style jackets are illustrated in Time-Life's Arms and Equipment of the Union.
Provenance: T. Haas to Consignor 2009
Condition: Open seam on front right shoulder. A couple small holes on back of left shoulder. Overall the coat is in very good condition.
EST $ 3000 - 5000
Provenance: T. Haas to Consignor 2009
Condition: Open seam on front right shoulder. A couple small holes on back of left shoulder. Overall the coat is in very good condition.
EST $ 3000 - 5000
Enlisted Cavalry Shell Jacket Attributed to Pvt. Charles L. Morton, 4th Michigan Cavalry
Lot # 13 (Sale Order: 13 of 566)
Typical navy blue wool cavalry shell jacket with edges trimmed in yellow. Single-breasted coat is the twelve-button depot variant lined in a correct white muslin material. A period identification stenciled vertically on the lining reads: "Chas. Morton." No inspector's markings inside sleeve. Serviceable cuffs. Rear of coat is trimmed with yellow piping.
This enlisted shell jacket is offered as an attribution to Michigan cavalryman Charles L. Morton without supporting provenance or written documentation attesting to the Michigan origin. In fact, HDS shows five other privates named “Charles Morton” who served in various cavalry regiments during the war. Pvt. Charles L. Morton, Co. I, 4th Michigan Cavalry enlisted on August 11, 1862 and was discharged six months later for disability on February 27, 1863 at Bowling Green. The uniform was acquired by the consignor in 2004 with the Michigan identification. The 4th Michigan Cavalry is best known as the unit that captured the fleeing Jefferson Davis at the end of the war, albeit long after Morton had been discharged.
The other enlisted troopers so-named were: Charles Morton, Co. H., 12th NY Cavalry (e. 4/15/63, deserted 9/21/63); Charles A. Morton, Co. I, 4th Arkansas Cavalry (e. 5/12/64, ultimate disposition unknown); Charles C. Morton, Co. E, 1st Wisconsin Cavalry (e. 9/9/61, discharged 12/30/62); Charles F. Morton, Co. M, 2nd NY Vet. Cavalry (e. 9/25/63, died 11/18/64); Charles S. Morton, Co. K, 9th NY Cavalry (e. 9/3/64, m/o 6/1/65).
Provenance: D. Taylor to Consignor 2004
Condition: Four replaced buttons with one button missing. Some moth damage underneath the right arm pit. Hole on right elbow. Moth damage on right front with fraying of some edges of yellow trim.
EST $ 2500 - 4000
This enlisted shell jacket is offered as an attribution to Michigan cavalryman Charles L. Morton without supporting provenance or written documentation attesting to the Michigan origin. In fact, HDS shows five other privates named “Charles Morton” who served in various cavalry regiments during the war. Pvt. Charles L. Morton, Co. I, 4th Michigan Cavalry enlisted on August 11, 1862 and was discharged six months later for disability on February 27, 1863 at Bowling Green. The uniform was acquired by the consignor in 2004 with the Michigan identification. The 4th Michigan Cavalry is best known as the unit that captured the fleeing Jefferson Davis at the end of the war, albeit long after Morton had been discharged.
The other enlisted troopers so-named were: Charles Morton, Co. H., 12th NY Cavalry (e. 4/15/63, deserted 9/21/63); Charles A. Morton, Co. I, 4th Arkansas Cavalry (e. 5/12/64, ultimate disposition unknown); Charles C. Morton, Co. E, 1st Wisconsin Cavalry (e. 9/9/61, discharged 12/30/62); Charles F. Morton, Co. M, 2nd NY Vet. Cavalry (e. 9/25/63, died 11/18/64); Charles S. Morton, Co. K, 9th NY Cavalry (e. 9/3/64, m/o 6/1/65).
Provenance: D. Taylor to Consignor 2004
Condition: Four replaced buttons with one button missing. Some moth damage underneath the right arm pit. Hole on right elbow. Moth damage on right front with fraying of some edges of yellow trim.
EST $ 2500 - 4000
Civil War Artillery Shell Jacket Belonging to Pvt. Henry Thomas, 8th NYHA
Lot # 14 (Sale Order: 14 of 566)
A pristine Navy blue wool artillery shell jacket with bright red trim piping. Twelve-button single-breasted variant with blue wool lining in body. Sleeves are lined in white muslin with right sleeve having US Depot markings "US INSP CIN." This shell jacket belonged to Private Horatio Thomas, 8th NYHA and descended in the family of the consignor. Lot 17 is Thomas' companion nine-button frock coat.
This artillery shell jacket and frock coat (Lot 15) were both worn by Sergeant Henry H. Thomas, Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery and descended in the family of the consignor. Both coats belonged to the consignor's Great Grandfather and came into his possession from "my Aunt Ida Belle Thomas Borell. Her name sake was her Any Ida Belle, her father's sister. She sent me the families military material before she died."
Henry H. Thomas (1843-1908) was a nineteen-year-old artist (aspiring photographer) from Batavia, N.Y when he enlisted as a Private in Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery on August 28, 1862. He served with the regiment for the duration, a lucky survivor of the deliberate attrition wrought by the grand strategy that drove Grant’s Overland Campaign. Thomas remained unscathed during the bloodletting at Spotsylvania and Cold Harbor, but his luck ran out when he was seriously wounded before Petersburg. Sent to hospital in Buffalo, N.Y., he recovered and returned to his regiment, being appointed Corporal on November 15, 1864, then quickly promoted to Sergeant on January 1, 1865.
The winter of ’64-65 saw the 8th NYHA ensconced in the misery of siege operations against Petersburg, finally emerging from the trenches to march in pursuit of the fragmenting but defiant Army of Northern Virginia during several brisk weeks that defined the forlorn Appomattox Campaign. The “Heavies” witnessed Lee’s reluctant surrender achieved at an astronomical price of 361 officers and men killed and mortally wounded over eleven months of fighting. The survivors took part in the Grand Review of May 23, 1865 and finally mustered out on June 5.
After the war Henry spent time working as an engineer in the grimy oil fields of Pennsylvania and West Virginia perfecting his knowledge of explosives, nitroglycerine and dynamite. He later relocated to Bay City, Michigan where he formed the Ajax Dynamite Works and built the first of several production plants specializing in industrial pyrotechnics. Between 1883 and 1905 Henry Thomas’ Ajax dynamite factory "blew up or exploded no less than four times and burnt down a fifth…with fatalities. He accumulated wealth enough to regularly rebuild exploding dynamite plants while acquiring a baronial home in Bay City where he raised two surviving daughters from two marriages.
Thomas was himself the victim of an early automobile accident. In 1908 his car was struck by a streetcar and “Henry was badly shook up but did not appear seriously hurt. He was confined at home and there suffered a stroke” and died on December 3, 1908. He rests in Elm Lawn Cemetery, Bay City, Michigan.
Provenance: Descended in the Family of the Consignor
Condition: One seam on top of right shoulder is open and could be repaired. Overall condition is excellent with no noticeable mothing damage or holes.
EST $ 1500 - 2000
This artillery shell jacket and frock coat (Lot 15) were both worn by Sergeant Henry H. Thomas, Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery and descended in the family of the consignor. Both coats belonged to the consignor's Great Grandfather and came into his possession from "my Aunt Ida Belle Thomas Borell. Her name sake was her Any Ida Belle, her father's sister. She sent me the families military material before she died."
Henry H. Thomas (1843-1908) was a nineteen-year-old artist (aspiring photographer) from Batavia, N.Y when he enlisted as a Private in Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery on August 28, 1862. He served with the regiment for the duration, a lucky survivor of the deliberate attrition wrought by the grand strategy that drove Grant’s Overland Campaign. Thomas remained unscathed during the bloodletting at Spotsylvania and Cold Harbor, but his luck ran out when he was seriously wounded before Petersburg. Sent to hospital in Buffalo, N.Y., he recovered and returned to his regiment, being appointed Corporal on November 15, 1864, then quickly promoted to Sergeant on January 1, 1865.
The winter of ’64-65 saw the 8th NYHA ensconced in the misery of siege operations against Petersburg, finally emerging from the trenches to march in pursuit of the fragmenting but defiant Army of Northern Virginia during several brisk weeks that defined the forlorn Appomattox Campaign. The “Heavies” witnessed Lee’s reluctant surrender achieved at an astronomical price of 361 officers and men killed and mortally wounded over eleven months of fighting. The survivors took part in the Grand Review of May 23, 1865 and finally mustered out on June 5.
After the war Henry spent time working as an engineer in the grimy oil fields of Pennsylvania and West Virginia perfecting his knowledge of explosives, nitroglycerine and dynamite. He later relocated to Bay City, Michigan where he formed the Ajax Dynamite Works and built the first of several production plants specializing in industrial pyrotechnics. Between 1883 and 1905 Henry Thomas’ Ajax dynamite factory "blew up or exploded no less than four times and burnt down a fifth…with fatalities. He accumulated wealth enough to regularly rebuild exploding dynamite plants while acquiring a baronial home in Bay City where he raised two surviving daughters from two marriages.
Thomas was himself the victim of an early automobile accident. In 1908 his car was struck by a streetcar and “Henry was badly shook up but did not appear seriously hurt. He was confined at home and there suffered a stroke” and died on December 3, 1908. He rests in Elm Lawn Cemetery, Bay City, Michigan.
Provenance: Descended in the Family of the Consignor
Condition: One seam on top of right shoulder is open and could be repaired. Overall condition is excellent with no noticeable mothing damage or holes.
EST $ 1500 - 2000
Civil War Major of Artillery Officer's Frock Coat
Lot # 15 (Sale Order: 15 of 566)
Dark navy blue heavy wool seven-button double-breasted coat. Buttons are manufactured by Waterbury and Co. with an "A"on the inside of the shield of the eagle. Non-serviceable cuffs with 9" elbows and 23" skirt to a rough edge. Inside lining is a dark olive with closely quilted chest and shoulders. Sleeves are white lined. Fitted with later war false embroidered "Smith Patent" shoulder straps with red background and major rank gold oak leaves. Tail with large center vent with 2 buttons at top of vent and in middle.
Provenance: Gorgas to Consignor 2003
Condition: Some minor mothing. Right shoulder strap is detached from front of shoulder and can be repaired. Overall, it is a very good coat.
EST $ 5000 - 7000
Provenance: Gorgas to Consignor 2003
Condition: Some minor mothing. Right shoulder strap is detached from front of shoulder and can be repaired. Overall, it is a very good coat.
EST $ 5000 - 7000
Presentation Civil War Artillery Frock Worn by Capt. William B. Chapman, 2nd OHLA when WIA Pea Ridge
Lot # 16 (Sale Order: 16 of 566)
A remarkable and historic uniform, one of a few known and documented that shows the effect of a battlefield wound. Navy blue nine-button single-breasted heavy wool artillery captain's frock coat made of a course cloth noted in other examples of early identified Ohio officer's uniforms. Buttons are marked "Extra Quality." Three-button serviceable cuff. Shoulder straps are red cloth with double gold bullion border gold bullion captain bars. The straps were clearly added to the coat after Chapman's promotion in June 1862. Lining of coat is typical dark olive with wide quilted patterns under arms. White muslin lining in sleeves. Skirt is 16" to rough edge and sleeves are 8" at width. Three seams on back that lead to center vent. Vent has 2 buttons at top and middle of vent.
This coat was presented to Captain William B. Chapman by the citizens of Conneaut, Ohio and was worn by him at the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas on March 7, 1862 where he was wounded in the left hip by a spent musket ball. Accompanying the frock coat is the original musket ball that caused the wound and the eagle button torn from the coat, both recovered by Captain Chapman and kept with the uniform. Also included is written provenance from a Chapman family member, significant documentation, and a deteriorating 19th century scrapbook containing a wartime albumen of Lieutenant Chapman wearing the very same coat with an old ink notation further documenting the provenance.
Thirty-four year old William B. Chapman (1826-1895) was already “one of the foremost lawyers in the State” when he enlisted in the 2nd Ohio Light Artillery as 1st Lieutenant on July 20 1861. The battery was order to St. Louis where it served until October 1861 when it was attached to the Army of Southwest Missouri for field service. It participated in Fremont’s advance on Springfield before going into winter quarters at Rolla. The battery was commanded by Lieutenant Chapman when it joined General Curtis for the campaign against Sterling Price seeing heavy action at Pea Ridge, Arkansas on March 7, 1862. During the battle Chapman “attempted to repel advancing Confederate infantry who were trying to overrun his position. He was then struck in the left hip by a spent musket ball.” A synthesis of Chapman’s later account extracted from a newspaper informs us that “it (the ball) had sufficient residual force to knock him over. The impact severed the lower button of his frock coat. As the coat was a gift, he thought he had better try and retrieve the missing button. While looking for it, he spied the musket ball that had struck him still rolling on the ground. He picked up the ball and the button…”
Chapman remained with the battery for just a few more months. He was promoted to Captain on June 19, 1862 when the 2nd OHLA was stationed at Helena but resigned and was discharged for wounds on October 11, 1862 ending his Civil War service.
The family provenance consists of a short note penciled on the back of an older business card presenting: “W.K. Chapman, Chief Clerk/District Freight Office/The Pennsylvania Railroad/Telephone Blackstone 5111, Akron, Ohio.” The Pennsylvania Railroad was in operation from 1846 until it merged in 1968. The note is signed by Chapman and reads: “This military coat was presented to Ca W.B. Chapman by citizens of Conneaut, Ohio in 1861—he was wearing same when he was wounded in the battle of Pea Ridge in March 1862. (signed) W.K. Chapman.” In the same clear plastic sleeve is an unknown address for “Red Barn Antiques and Paul & Olive Benton.”
An 5.25 x 7 in. oval albumen glued to a scrapbook page shows 1st Lieutenant Chapman at the time of his enlistment wearing the frock coat as well as a large hanging Masonic compass and square emblem The caption written about 1900 reads: “This is a picture of Capt. William B. Chapman taken July 1861. The coat worn was presented by the citizens of Conneaut and was pierced by an inch ball in the fight at Pea Ridge. He was a Past Master of Masonic Lodge No. 222 Evergreen Chapter at the time. The picture was taken at the request of the Masons and has hung in their hall thirty eight years.” The lead ball itself is approximately .69 showing oxidation from age, but no obvious damage. The eagle “A” button is undamaged. Both are contained in a 2.5” diameter machine turned treenware box with an orange/orange leaves painted on the lid. On judgment the common style of box dates from the late 19th century, but probably not earlier. The scrapbook with paper boards literally falling apart was compiled by Chapman’s daughter, Sarah Chapman Heyward, also contains an albumen of Capt. Chapman and surviving veterans of the 2nd OHLA at a battery reunion held at the daughter’s home in September 1897.
Another item of interest in the scrapbook is a partial edition of the March 29, 1862 edition of Frank
This coat was presented to Captain William B. Chapman by the citizens of Conneaut, Ohio and was worn by him at the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas on March 7, 1862 where he was wounded in the left hip by a spent musket ball. Accompanying the frock coat is the original musket ball that caused the wound and the eagle button torn from the coat, both recovered by Captain Chapman and kept with the uniform. Also included is written provenance from a Chapman family member, significant documentation, and a deteriorating 19th century scrapbook containing a wartime albumen of Lieutenant Chapman wearing the very same coat with an old ink notation further documenting the provenance.
Thirty-four year old William B. Chapman (1826-1895) was already “one of the foremost lawyers in the State” when he enlisted in the 2nd Ohio Light Artillery as 1st Lieutenant on July 20 1861. The battery was order to St. Louis where it served until October 1861 when it was attached to the Army of Southwest Missouri for field service. It participated in Fremont’s advance on Springfield before going into winter quarters at Rolla. The battery was commanded by Lieutenant Chapman when it joined General Curtis for the campaign against Sterling Price seeing heavy action at Pea Ridge, Arkansas on March 7, 1862. During the battle Chapman “attempted to repel advancing Confederate infantry who were trying to overrun his position. He was then struck in the left hip by a spent musket ball.” A synthesis of Chapman’s later account extracted from a newspaper informs us that “it (the ball) had sufficient residual force to knock him over. The impact severed the lower button of his frock coat. As the coat was a gift, he thought he had better try and retrieve the missing button. While looking for it, he spied the musket ball that had struck him still rolling on the ground. He picked up the ball and the button…”
Chapman remained with the battery for just a few more months. He was promoted to Captain on June 19, 1862 when the 2nd OHLA was stationed at Helena but resigned and was discharged for wounds on October 11, 1862 ending his Civil War service.
The family provenance consists of a short note penciled on the back of an older business card presenting: “W.K. Chapman, Chief Clerk/District Freight Office/The Pennsylvania Railroad/Telephone Blackstone 5111, Akron, Ohio.” The Pennsylvania Railroad was in operation from 1846 until it merged in 1968. The note is signed by Chapman and reads: “This military coat was presented to Ca W.B. Chapman by citizens of Conneaut, Ohio in 1861—he was wearing same when he was wounded in the battle of Pea Ridge in March 1862. (signed) W.K. Chapman.” In the same clear plastic sleeve is an unknown address for “Red Barn Antiques and Paul & Olive Benton.”
An 5.25 x 7 in. oval albumen glued to a scrapbook page shows 1st Lieutenant Chapman at the time of his enlistment wearing the frock coat as well as a large hanging Masonic compass and square emblem The caption written about 1900 reads: “This is a picture of Capt. William B. Chapman taken July 1861. The coat worn was presented by the citizens of Conneaut and was pierced by an inch ball in the fight at Pea Ridge. He was a Past Master of Masonic Lodge No. 222 Evergreen Chapter at the time. The picture was taken at the request of the Masons and has hung in their hall thirty eight years.” The lead ball itself is approximately .69 showing oxidation from age, but no obvious damage. The eagle “A” button is undamaged. Both are contained in a 2.5” diameter machine turned treenware box with an orange/orange leaves painted on the lid. On judgment the common style of box dates from the late 19th century, but probably not earlier. The scrapbook with paper boards literally falling apart was compiled by Chapman’s daughter, Sarah Chapman Heyward, also contains an albumen of Capt. Chapman and surviving veterans of the 2nd OHLA at a battery reunion held at the daughter’s home in September 1897.
Another item of interest in the scrapbook is a partial edition of the March 29, 1862 edition of Frank
Nine Button Civil War Artillery Enlisted Frock Coat Worn by Sgt. Henry H. Thomas, 8th NYHA
Lot # 17 (Sale Order: 17 of 566)
Heavy navy blue wool nine-button single-breasted coat piped in artillery red. Detached from coat are the original pair of red worsted sergeant's chevrons. Back of buttons are marked "Extra Quality." Inside of coat is quarter lined with dark olive lining. Sleeves are lined in white and inside right sleeve is marked with large "2 J.R. Boylan, Newark, N. J. Contract Nov. 3d 1864." Skirt is 16" to a rough edge. Non serviceable cuffs. Back of coat has center vent with two buttons at top of vent.
This rare enlisted frock coat and the artillery shell jacket (Lot 15) were both worn by Sergeant Henry H. Thomas, Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery and descended in the family of the consignor. Both coats belonged to the consignor's Great Grandfather and came into his possession from "my Aunt Ida Belle Thomas Borell. Her name sake was her Any Ida Belle, her father's sister. She sent me the families military material before she died."
Henry H. Thomas (1843-1908) was a nineteen-year-old artist (aspiring photographer) from Batavia, N.Y when he enlisted as a Private in Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery on August 28, 1862. He served with the regiment for the duration, a lucky survivor of the deliberate attrition wrought by the grand strategy that drove Grant’s Overland Campaign. Thomas remained unscathed during the bloodletting at Spotsylvania and Cold Harbor, but his luck ran out when he was seriously wounded before Petersburg. Sent to hospital in Buffalo, N.Y., he recovered and returned to his regiment being appointed Corporal on November 15, 1864, then quickly promoted to Sergeant on January 1, 1865.
The winter of ’64-65 saw the 8th NYHA ensconced in the misery of siege operations against Petersburg, finally emerging from the trenches to march in pursuit of the fragmenting but defiant Army of Northern Virginia during several brisk weeks that defined the forlorn Appomattox Campaign. The “Heavies” witnessed Lee’s reluctant surrender achieved at an astronomical price of 361 officers and men killed and mortally wounded over eleven months of fighting. The survivors took part in the Grand Review of May 23, 1865 and finally mustered out on June 5.
After the war Henry spent time working as an engineer in the grimy oil fields of Pennsylvania and West Virginia perfecting his knowledge of explosives, nitroglycerine and dynamite. He later relocated to Bay City, Michigan where he formed the Ajax Dynamite Works and built the first of several production plants specializing in industrial pyrotechnics. Between 1883 and 1905 Henry Thomas’ Ajax dynamite factory blew up or exploded no less than four times and burnt down a fifth…with fatalities. He accumulated wealth enough to regularly rebuild exploding dynamite plants while acquiring a baronial home in Bay City where he raised two surviving daughters from two marriages.
Thomas was himself the victim of an early automobile accident. In 1908 his car was struck by a streetcar and “Henry was badly shook up but did not appear seriously hurt. He was confined at home and there suffered a stroke” and died on December 3, 1908. He rests in Elm Lawn Cemetery, Bay City, Michigan.
Provenance: Decsended in the family of the Consignor
Condition: Coat has signs of mothing on both shoulders and collar. There is a period repair on the lower right skirt on front of the jacket. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 7000 - 9000
This rare enlisted frock coat and the artillery shell jacket (Lot 15) were both worn by Sergeant Henry H. Thomas, Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery and descended in the family of the consignor. Both coats belonged to the consignor's Great Grandfather and came into his possession from "my Aunt Ida Belle Thomas Borell. Her name sake was her Any Ida Belle, her father's sister. She sent me the families military material before she died."
Henry H. Thomas (1843-1908) was a nineteen-year-old artist (aspiring photographer) from Batavia, N.Y when he enlisted as a Private in Co. G, 8th New York Heavy Artillery on August 28, 1862. He served with the regiment for the duration, a lucky survivor of the deliberate attrition wrought by the grand strategy that drove Grant’s Overland Campaign. Thomas remained unscathed during the bloodletting at Spotsylvania and Cold Harbor, but his luck ran out when he was seriously wounded before Petersburg. Sent to hospital in Buffalo, N.Y., he recovered and returned to his regiment being appointed Corporal on November 15, 1864, then quickly promoted to Sergeant on January 1, 1865.
The winter of ’64-65 saw the 8th NYHA ensconced in the misery of siege operations against Petersburg, finally emerging from the trenches to march in pursuit of the fragmenting but defiant Army of Northern Virginia during several brisk weeks that defined the forlorn Appomattox Campaign. The “Heavies” witnessed Lee’s reluctant surrender achieved at an astronomical price of 361 officers and men killed and mortally wounded over eleven months of fighting. The survivors took part in the Grand Review of May 23, 1865 and finally mustered out on June 5.
After the war Henry spent time working as an engineer in the grimy oil fields of Pennsylvania and West Virginia perfecting his knowledge of explosives, nitroglycerine and dynamite. He later relocated to Bay City, Michigan where he formed the Ajax Dynamite Works and built the first of several production plants specializing in industrial pyrotechnics. Between 1883 and 1905 Henry Thomas’ Ajax dynamite factory blew up or exploded no less than four times and burnt down a fifth…with fatalities. He accumulated wealth enough to regularly rebuild exploding dynamite plants while acquiring a baronial home in Bay City where he raised two surviving daughters from two marriages.
Thomas was himself the victim of an early automobile accident. In 1908 his car was struck by a streetcar and “Henry was badly shook up but did not appear seriously hurt. He was confined at home and there suffered a stroke” and died on December 3, 1908. He rests in Elm Lawn Cemetery, Bay City, Michigan.
Provenance: Decsended in the family of the Consignor
Condition: Coat has signs of mothing on both shoulders and collar. There is a period repair on the lower right skirt on front of the jacket. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 7000 - 9000
Civil War Rifle Officer's 1st Lieutenant's Frock Coat
Lot # 18 (Sale Order: 18 of 566)
Navy blue wool nine-button single-breasted First Lt. Officer's rifleman frock coat. Buttons are marked "Horstmann & Co." Shoulder straps are green cloth material with single thick gold bullion outlined on each side with small gold bullion. Has first lieutenants' gold bullion rank bar. Three-button serviceable cuff. Black lining with wide quilted pattern under arms and sleeves have white lining. Piped inside chest pocket on left side. Skirt measures 15.5" to rough edge and sleeves are 8.5" at bell shaped elbow. Three-seam back that leads to center vent with 2 buttons at top and middle of vent.
Made to the specifications of the unknown owner, this coat was tailored to fit tighter than typical Civil War frock coats. It is, in fact, a throw-back to the style of construction prevalent during the Mexican War and before the adoption of the 1851 uniform regulations. A number of states recruited companies and regiments of sharpshooters including the 66th Illinois Western Sharpshooters and the 1st Michigan Volunteer Sharpshooters. Massachusetts raised a number of battalions and regiments designated "Rifles" as did Pennsylvania (1st Pennsylvania Rifles) The two famous regiments of green clad United States Sharpshooters were likewise organized from independent companies of riflemen. It is impossible to identify this rare frock coat to a particular unit.
Provenance: T. Haas to Consignor 2004
Condition: Coat has signs of mothing and moth holes on shoulders, collar and front of coat. Sleeves have signs of mothing and moth holes. Left arm has a period repaired hole and hole on right cuff. Front and back of skirt has mothing and moth holes. Back has mothing and noticeable moth holes throughout the back. Still, overall condition is good.
EST $ 3000 - 5000
Made to the specifications of the unknown owner, this coat was tailored to fit tighter than typical Civil War frock coats. It is, in fact, a throw-back to the style of construction prevalent during the Mexican War and before the adoption of the 1851 uniform regulations. A number of states recruited companies and regiments of sharpshooters including the 66th Illinois Western Sharpshooters and the 1st Michigan Volunteer Sharpshooters. Massachusetts raised a number of battalions and regiments designated "Rifles" as did Pennsylvania (1st Pennsylvania Rifles) The two famous regiments of green clad United States Sharpshooters were likewise organized from independent companies of riflemen. It is impossible to identify this rare frock coat to a particular unit.
Provenance: T. Haas to Consignor 2004
Condition: Coat has signs of mothing and moth holes on shoulders, collar and front of coat. Sleeves have signs of mothing and moth holes. Left arm has a period repaired hole and hole on right cuff. Front and back of skirt has mothing and moth holes. Back has mothing and noticeable moth holes throughout the back. Still, overall condition is good.
EST $ 3000 - 5000
Civil War Naval Constructor's Frock Coat
Lot # 19 (Sale Order: 19 of 566)
Navy blue wool double-breasted nine-button Naval Constructor's frock coat with fold-down collar consistent with the 1864 Regulations. Typical gilt anchor buttons are marked "Scoville MFG. CO., Waterbury." Cuffs have correct two gold bullion stripes around the sleeve identical to the undress cuff worn by a lieutenant commander. Distinctive shoulder straps are navy blue cloth with single gold bullion border, gold oak leaves and gold sprig with an acorn indicating the rank of Naval Constructor (under twelve years of service). Sleeve cuffs have bouillon straps that are inconsistent with the shoulder straps (but blacklight suggests they have been on the uniform a long time). Skirt is 20" to rough edge and sleeves are 10" bell-shaped. Lining is dark olive, almost charcoal, in color. Sleeves are lined in white with blue strips. Wide quilted patterns under arms. Piped pocket on inside left chest. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top of vent. A complete Civil War naval staff officer's coat, unfortunately unidentified. Rare.
Provenance: J. Frasca to Consignor 2000
Condition: Wool coat has natural coloring fading throughout the sleeves. Wool material shows some signs of wear in the material. Signs of mothing and moth holes on back of coat. Lining has a repaired hole. Hole on front right side of skirt. This is a very rare coat. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 4000 - 6000
Provenance: J. Frasca to Consignor 2000
Condition: Wool coat has natural coloring fading throughout the sleeves. Wool material shows some signs of wear in the material. Signs of mothing and moth holes on back of coat. Lining has a repaired hole. Hole on front right side of skirt. This is a very rare coat. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 4000 - 6000
Civil War Double-Breasted Frock Coat Worn by Major William S. Harlan, 159th Ohio (NG) Infantry
Lot # 20 (Sale Order: 20 of 566)
Navy blue seven-button double-breasted staff grade infantry officer's frock coat with original major's shoulder straps. Buttons are marked "Waterbury Button Co." Matched straps are blue cloth with single gold bullion border and a gold embroidered bullion oak leaf. Three-button serviceable cuff. Skirt is 17" to rough edge and sleeves 9" in width and are bell shaped. Lining of coat is dark olive and has close quilted pattern in chest, underarms and center back and shoulders. Boldly embroidered on center back of lining is "R. Silvey" who was the coat's tailor according to the consignor. Sleeves are lined in white with brown stripe in an unusual spades, diamonds, hearts and clubs pattern. Piped pocket on inside left chest. Back has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top.
Along with the frock coat is a tray of post-war GAR ribbons (5) and medals (4) belonging to Major William S. Harlan. Two photographs are included, the first being an earlier ink identified CDV of Capt. Harlan by Hoag & Quick, Cincinnati showing Harlan as a company grade officer in the 78th OVI, the second a post-war cabinet card with Seattle imprint of "Grandfather Harlan" dated May 1891. Two of the ribbons are St. Louis National Convention types dated 1887. Two more denote the Annual Encampment Dept. of Washington and Alaska dating 1892. Two of the medals are Woman's Relief Corps, Delegate and Treasurer, while another is a Dept. of the Ohio Toledo medal from 1888 featuring a fine bust of Gen. McPherson. A thin file of research accompanies the group comprising readily available military information with a page of Harlan family genealogy reflecting the coat's descendance in the family.
William S. Harlan had early service with the 78th OVI having enlisted in Co. D. as First Sergeant on Oct. 25, 1861. He was promoted to 2nd Lieut. in December 1861 and was engaged at Shiloh and Bolivar, Tennessee in April 1862, being promoted to 1st Lieut. and Capt. the same month in the wake of several resignations that created vacancies. Captain Harlan may have been involved in early operations against Vicksburg but he, too, resigned his commission on Feb. 13, 1863. Harlan re-enlisted as Major of the 159th Ohio Infantry (National Guard) on May 5, 1864. The 159th Ohio was a 100-day Regiment sent to Harper’s Ferry and assigned to the 8th Corps, Middle Department. Almost immediately the regiment was broken up and served by company at various points including the defenses of Baltimore on guard and garrison duty. Major Harlan commanded that portion of the regiment detailed to Camp Bradford, Baltimore and is mentioned several times in Official Records correspondence during the July 1864 period. Another detachment of the 159th, about 100 men, were mounted as scouts and fought at Monocacy Junction on July 9, 1864. The regiment mustered out at Zanesville on August 24, 1864 so ending Major Harlan’s service.
Parenthetically, Major Harlan's wife was a Milhous and related to Hanna Milhous, mother of future President Richard Milhous Nixon. Another interesting aspect of this uniform pertains to its discovery and cleaning. The coat along with a number of other personal articles were discovered in the attic of an old home in Nashville, Tennessee. The frock coat had apparently hung on a wooden hanger for the better portion of a century. The consignor relates that the coat had so much dirt and accumulated grime “it could literally stand by itself.” It was sent to the Smithsonian's historical textile expert and cleaned using techniques similar to the period. “Five pounds of silt were removed during the cleaning process." After conservation a fine quality uniform emerged.
Provenance: Sylvia to Consignor 2002
Condition: Front of coat shows signs of wear and mothing on front chest, shoulders and skirt. One button is removed, but the button comes with coat and can be repaired. One button holing on by long thread. Moth holes on each sleeve. Back of coat shows mothing, moth holes and wear. Inside lining has signs of wear and holes. Center vent is missing the 2 buttons at middle of vent. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 6000 - 9000
Along with the frock coat is a tray of post-war GAR ribbons (5) and medals (4) belonging to Major William S. Harlan. Two photographs are included, the first being an earlier ink identified CDV of Capt. Harlan by Hoag & Quick, Cincinnati showing Harlan as a company grade officer in the 78th OVI, the second a post-war cabinet card with Seattle imprint of "Grandfather Harlan" dated May 1891. Two of the ribbons are St. Louis National Convention types dated 1887. Two more denote the Annual Encampment Dept. of Washington and Alaska dating 1892. Two of the medals are Woman's Relief Corps, Delegate and Treasurer, while another is a Dept. of the Ohio Toledo medal from 1888 featuring a fine bust of Gen. McPherson. A thin file of research accompanies the group comprising readily available military information with a page of Harlan family genealogy reflecting the coat's descendance in the family.
William S. Harlan had early service with the 78th OVI having enlisted in Co. D. as First Sergeant on Oct. 25, 1861. He was promoted to 2nd Lieut. in December 1861 and was engaged at Shiloh and Bolivar, Tennessee in April 1862, being promoted to 1st Lieut. and Capt. the same month in the wake of several resignations that created vacancies. Captain Harlan may have been involved in early operations against Vicksburg but he, too, resigned his commission on Feb. 13, 1863. Harlan re-enlisted as Major of the 159th Ohio Infantry (National Guard) on May 5, 1864. The 159th Ohio was a 100-day Regiment sent to Harper’s Ferry and assigned to the 8th Corps, Middle Department. Almost immediately the regiment was broken up and served by company at various points including the defenses of Baltimore on guard and garrison duty. Major Harlan commanded that portion of the regiment detailed to Camp Bradford, Baltimore and is mentioned several times in Official Records correspondence during the July 1864 period. Another detachment of the 159th, about 100 men, were mounted as scouts and fought at Monocacy Junction on July 9, 1864. The regiment mustered out at Zanesville on August 24, 1864 so ending Major Harlan’s service.
Parenthetically, Major Harlan's wife was a Milhous and related to Hanna Milhous, mother of future President Richard Milhous Nixon. Another interesting aspect of this uniform pertains to its discovery and cleaning. The coat along with a number of other personal articles were discovered in the attic of an old home in Nashville, Tennessee. The frock coat had apparently hung on a wooden hanger for the better portion of a century. The consignor relates that the coat had so much dirt and accumulated grime “it could literally stand by itself.” It was sent to the Smithsonian's historical textile expert and cleaned using techniques similar to the period. “Five pounds of silt were removed during the cleaning process." After conservation a fine quality uniform emerged.
Provenance: Sylvia to Consignor 2002
Condition: Front of coat shows signs of wear and mothing on front chest, shoulders and skirt. One button is removed, but the button comes with coat and can be repaired. One button holing on by long thread. Moth holes on each sleeve. Back of coat shows mothing, moth holes and wear. Inside lining has signs of wear and holes. Center vent is missing the 2 buttons at middle of vent. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 6000 - 9000
Civil War Frock Coat Belonging to Sam'l. F. Patton, Co. A., 59th ILL.
Lot # 21 (Sale Order: 21 of 566)
A fine navy blue wool nine-button single-breasted frock coat worn by 1st Lieut. Samuel F. Patton, Co. A. 59th Illinois, sold with Patton's relic Staff & Field sword, a post-war GAR walking stick, and a letter of provenance from family descendants. Uniform buttons are marked "Extra Quality". Original pair of first lieutenant's straps were detached from the coat by the consignor for a custom display and never reattached. Standard three-button non-serviceable cuff. Skirt measures 20.5" to rough edge with bell-shaped elbows at 9" wide. Dark olive green lining with wide quilted patterns in chest and under arms. Lining of sleeves is white. Back of coat has 3 seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle of vent.
Sword and scabbard are severely damaged, complete, but in relic condition. The W. Clauberg blade is unbent, but coated in rust with shallow pitting beneath. Point is sharp with no edge nicks. Brass hilt is complete and unbroken. Grip showing bare wood and missing a portion of the top that appears to have been damaged in a fire. The bottom 1/4 of the metal scabbard is missing; the rest is heavily corroded but retaining both brass scabbard mounts and rings. Restoration of sword possible with replacement/rebuilt scabbard. The GAR walking stick measures 36" long made with a soft wood tapered shaft 3/4" in diameter painted black. The stamped white metal handle depicts the GAR eagle & crossed cannon emblem in relief over a band that says GAR. Damaged handle is bent downward with thin metal split and bent underneath. The light gauge and construction of the cane suggests a souvenir rather than a functional walking stick.
Accompanying the group is a handwritten letter of provenance dated "9/17/99" from the owner, Mr. Robert M. Ray, conveying the "coat, sword, and GAR cane" to the buyer, a well known collector from Ohio. In the letter Mr. Ray states that "Sam Patton of Knoxville, Illinois...was my grandmother's brother." The letter further provides anecdotal information relating to the family heirlooms and the chain of ownership.
Samuel F. Patton (1839-1893) was from Knoxville, Knox County, Illinois where he joined Company A, 59th IL. as a private on July 17, 1861. Samuel served in the same company and regiment for the duration and took a commission as first lieutenant on October 10, 1864. He mustered out in Texas as a veteran on December 8, 1865.
The 59th Ill. was commanded by Philip Sidney Post, CMOH and earned a reputation for hard fighting in the western theater during the war. Serving primarily with the 4th Corps the regiment's battle honors include Pea Ridge, Corinth, Stone's River, Chattanooga, the Atlanta Campaign, and Nashville, altogether 109 battle casualties during its term of service. Post-war, Samuel Patton became a member of GAR Post #239 (G.W. Trafton) in Knoxville and served as County Sheriff in 1871-72. He died at Knoxville on February 13, 1893 and was buried in Lot No. 73, Westfall Cemetery, Victoria, Knox County.
Provenance: Decsended in the family to Strayer to Consignor.
Condition: Signs of mothing and moth holes throughout the shoulders and collar. Moth holes on right and left sleeves. Moth holes on front right and left chest. Mothing on each side of skirt. Back of coat has moth holes. Lining shows signs of wear and thinning. Two rips on the lining at neck and shoulder area and near the quilting pattern on back left underarm area. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 3500 - 5000
Sword and scabbard are severely damaged, complete, but in relic condition. The W. Clauberg blade is unbent, but coated in rust with shallow pitting beneath. Point is sharp with no edge nicks. Brass hilt is complete and unbroken. Grip showing bare wood and missing a portion of the top that appears to have been damaged in a fire. The bottom 1/4 of the metal scabbard is missing; the rest is heavily corroded but retaining both brass scabbard mounts and rings. Restoration of sword possible with replacement/rebuilt scabbard. The GAR walking stick measures 36" long made with a soft wood tapered shaft 3/4" in diameter painted black. The stamped white metal handle depicts the GAR eagle & crossed cannon emblem in relief over a band that says GAR. Damaged handle is bent downward with thin metal split and bent underneath. The light gauge and construction of the cane suggests a souvenir rather than a functional walking stick.
Accompanying the group is a handwritten letter of provenance dated "9/17/99" from the owner, Mr. Robert M. Ray, conveying the "coat, sword, and GAR cane" to the buyer, a well known collector from Ohio. In the letter Mr. Ray states that "Sam Patton of Knoxville, Illinois...was my grandmother's brother." The letter further provides anecdotal information relating to the family heirlooms and the chain of ownership.
Samuel F. Patton (1839-1893) was from Knoxville, Knox County, Illinois where he joined Company A, 59th IL. as a private on July 17, 1861. Samuel served in the same company and regiment for the duration and took a commission as first lieutenant on October 10, 1864. He mustered out in Texas as a veteran on December 8, 1865.
The 59th Ill. was commanded by Philip Sidney Post, CMOH and earned a reputation for hard fighting in the western theater during the war. Serving primarily with the 4th Corps the regiment's battle honors include Pea Ridge, Corinth, Stone's River, Chattanooga, the Atlanta Campaign, and Nashville, altogether 109 battle casualties during its term of service. Post-war, Samuel Patton became a member of GAR Post #239 (G.W. Trafton) in Knoxville and served as County Sheriff in 1871-72. He died at Knoxville on February 13, 1893 and was buried in Lot No. 73, Westfall Cemetery, Victoria, Knox County.
Provenance: Decsended in the family to Strayer to Consignor.
Condition: Signs of mothing and moth holes throughout the shoulders and collar. Moth holes on right and left sleeves. Moth holes on front right and left chest. Mothing on each side of skirt. Back of coat has moth holes. Lining shows signs of wear and thinning. Two rips on the lining at neck and shoulder area and near the quilting pattern on back left underarm area. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 3500 - 5000
Civil War Double Breasted Frock Coat Worn by Lt. Col. Normand Smith, 13th NH
Lot # 22 (Sale Order: 22 of 566)
An exceptional navy blue wool seven-button double-breasted officer's frock coat having rolled black velvet collar with Smith's original pair of (detached) major's shoulder straps and red silk sash. Coat with serviceable cuffs. Skirt is 19" to rough edge and 9" bell-shaped elbows. Lining of coat is quilted olive with white sleeves, piped inside left chest pocket. Large quilted pattern under arms. Three-seam back to center vent. Two buttons at top and middle vent. Extra fancy straps are single border with gold oak leaves outlined in twisted silver metallic wire on dark blue (near black) field. Sash is typical maroon silk with both cords showing some loss of color.
Accompanying the uniform is file folder of information including an original typed letter of provenance dated "Sept. 14, 1990" signed by a Pattie S. Kaylor who wrote: My family has been in possession of this coat all my life. I was told by my father, Ormonde Smith, that the coat was part of his father's uniform when he was a member of the 13th New Hampshire Regiment from 1861-1864. In 1972 my father gave the coat to me to bring to Washington, D.C. to show the Smithsonian Institution where I was a volunteer docent. As the Smithsonian declined to accept the the coat, I kept it. (signed) Pattie S. Kaylor.
The file also contains a series of eight handwritten letters spanning 1991-1996, essentially back and forth correspondence dealing with the possible sale of the coat. Additionally, there are copy photographs of Smith in uniform and post-war in civilian dress as well as color prints of his lonely gravestone. A compelling souvenir is a "Confederate Government Envelope from Capital April 10, 1865" recovered by Col. Smith. The 13th New Hampshire was the first regiment to enter Richmond following Davis' hasty departure. A photocopy of Smith's 1901 obituary and his Military Records from the National Archives are included.
Normand Smith (1832-1901) of Stewartstown joined the 13th New Hampshire as Capt. of Co. H on Sept. 27, 1862 and served with the fighting regiment for the duration. He was promoted Major on July 15, 1864 and was WIA during the fight at Fort Harrison on Sept. 29, and advanced to Lieut. Col. on Oct. 28, 1864. During his early service the regiment was part of the 9th Corps engaged at Fredericksburg, later seeing action at Drewry’s Bluff, Bermuda Hundred, Cold Harbor, the Siege of Petersburg including the Mine Explosion and the capture and defense of Fort Harrison while attached to the 18th Corps, Army of the James. The 13th New Hampshire held the honor of being the first white regiment to march into the ruined Confederate Capital. The Register of New Hampshire Soldiers and Sailors records: At daylight on April 3, 1865 they occupied Richmond finding it in turmoil, riot, ruin and fire. The flag of the regiment and the New Hampshire state flag were the first to enter the city. No colored troops were allowed to enter (although they were there first). Lt. Colonel Normand Smith was appointed first officer of the day and Provost Marshal. Immediately the 13th engaged in restoring order, putting out fires, and guarding property. Rounding up over 2,000 stragglers from the Confederate army. The regiment remained on guard duty in Richmond until April 13 until posted to camp nearby before starting for home on June 22 reaching Concord on June 27 and finally mustering out July 1, 1865 having sustained 89 battle casualties during the war.
Almost immediately after the war Normand Smith returned to Richmond where he farmed. He was later elected to the Virginia state Senate in 1869 and became an active member of the GAR joining the local Phil Kearny Post. Smith died on March 9, 1901 was buried in the city’s historic Oakwood Cemetery along with his wife.
Provenance: Descended in the Family to Howard Gosdorfer to Sylvia to Consignor 2004
Condition: Velvet lining on collar shows wear. Lining of coat shows heavy wear and several holes. One button of coat has been repaired with the correct button, but not the same manufacturer as other buttons. Coat show signs of wear, mothing, and moth holes throughout coat. Sleeves have moth holes and a small tear on left elbow. Signs of wear and moth holes on back of coat. There is a tear at the seam at top of vent. Long tear on back left skirt coat. Overall condition is fair. Body of silk sash with scattered moth holes, otherwise complete and intact.
EST $ 6000 - 8000
Accompanying the uniform is file folder of information including an original typed letter of provenance dated "Sept. 14, 1990" signed by a Pattie S. Kaylor who wrote: My family has been in possession of this coat all my life. I was told by my father, Ormonde Smith, that the coat was part of his father's uniform when he was a member of the 13th New Hampshire Regiment from 1861-1864. In 1972 my father gave the coat to me to bring to Washington, D.C. to show the Smithsonian Institution where I was a volunteer docent. As the Smithsonian declined to accept the the coat, I kept it. (signed) Pattie S. Kaylor.
The file also contains a series of eight handwritten letters spanning 1991-1996, essentially back and forth correspondence dealing with the possible sale of the coat. Additionally, there are copy photographs of Smith in uniform and post-war in civilian dress as well as color prints of his lonely gravestone. A compelling souvenir is a "Confederate Government Envelope from Capital April 10, 1865" recovered by Col. Smith. The 13th New Hampshire was the first regiment to enter Richmond following Davis' hasty departure. A photocopy of Smith's 1901 obituary and his Military Records from the National Archives are included.
Normand Smith (1832-1901) of Stewartstown joined the 13th New Hampshire as Capt. of Co. H on Sept. 27, 1862 and served with the fighting regiment for the duration. He was promoted Major on July 15, 1864 and was WIA during the fight at Fort Harrison on Sept. 29, and advanced to Lieut. Col. on Oct. 28, 1864. During his early service the regiment was part of the 9th Corps engaged at Fredericksburg, later seeing action at Drewry’s Bluff, Bermuda Hundred, Cold Harbor, the Siege of Petersburg including the Mine Explosion and the capture and defense of Fort Harrison while attached to the 18th Corps, Army of the James. The 13th New Hampshire held the honor of being the first white regiment to march into the ruined Confederate Capital. The Register of New Hampshire Soldiers and Sailors records: At daylight on April 3, 1865 they occupied Richmond finding it in turmoil, riot, ruin and fire. The flag of the regiment and the New Hampshire state flag were the first to enter the city. No colored troops were allowed to enter (although they were there first). Lt. Colonel Normand Smith was appointed first officer of the day and Provost Marshal. Immediately the 13th engaged in restoring order, putting out fires, and guarding property. Rounding up over 2,000 stragglers from the Confederate army. The regiment remained on guard duty in Richmond until April 13 until posted to camp nearby before starting for home on June 22 reaching Concord on June 27 and finally mustering out July 1, 1865 having sustained 89 battle casualties during the war.
Almost immediately after the war Normand Smith returned to Richmond where he farmed. He was later elected to the Virginia state Senate in 1869 and became an active member of the GAR joining the local Phil Kearny Post. Smith died on March 9, 1901 was buried in the city’s historic Oakwood Cemetery along with his wife.
Provenance: Descended in the Family to Howard Gosdorfer to Sylvia to Consignor 2004
Condition: Velvet lining on collar shows wear. Lining of coat shows heavy wear and several holes. One button of coat has been repaired with the correct button, but not the same manufacturer as other buttons. Coat show signs of wear, mothing, and moth holes throughout coat. Sleeves have moth holes and a small tear on left elbow. Signs of wear and moth holes on back of coat. There is a tear at the seam at top of vent. Long tear on back left skirt coat. Overall condition is fair. Body of silk sash with scattered moth holes, otherwise complete and intact.
EST $ 6000 - 8000
Civil War Frock Coat Identified to 1st Lieut. Henry S. Hitchcock, Co. A., 21st Mass.
Lot # 23 (Sale Order: 23 of 566)
Navy blue wool nine-button single-breasted coat with unusual piped pocket on outside of right chest. Three button non-servicable cuffs. Original first lieutenant's shoulder straps are navy material with bullion border having single bar rank insignia. Buttons are marked "Extra Quality" with all buttons attached by inside ring. Skirt is 18" to rough edge and 9" bell shaped elbows. Coat with typical dark olive green lining with white lined sleeves. Right shoulder is marked in ink "H.S. Hitchcock". This is Henry Sparhawk Hitchcock, 21st Massachusetts who was promoted to 1st Lieut. on April 26, 1863 making this a mid-war frock coat. Wide quilted pattern in chest with close quilted pattern underarms. Piped inside left chest pocket. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Center vent has two buttons at top and middle of vent.
Henry Sparhawk Hitchcock of Templeton, Massachusetts joined Co. A, 21st Mass. as Sergeant on July 19, 1861 and served with the regiment until it literally fought itself out of existence in August 1864. Initially, the regiment was assigned to Burnside’s Expeditionary Corps and the Dept. of North Carolina, seeing early action at Roanoke, New Burn and Camden. The Bay Stater’s then joined the 9th Corps, Army of the Potomac and were solidly engaged at 2nd Bull Run and Chantilly where the 21st suffered heavy casualties. Several weeks later the regiment fought at South Mountain and Antietam and just afterwards Hitchcock was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant on September 25, 1862. The 21st was in the thick of the fighting at Fredericksburg helping to carry Burnside Bridge with significant losses. After a short respite the regiment transferred to Kentucky joining the 23rd Corps and was assigned to the defense of Knoxville during Longstreet’s brutal winter siege. On April 26, 1863 Henry Hitchcock was promoted 1st Lieutenant.
The regiment then veteranized and reverted to the 9th Corps, Army of the Potomac following furlough. The 21st had been much reduced and returned to field duty numbering slightly more than 200 all ranks. The regiment marched with Grant into the bloodletting of the Overland Campaign and suffered from purposeful attrition in the Wilderness, Spotsylvania and the Bethesda Church with a grim determination. The regiment then transferred to the Petersburg front and participated in the chaos known as battle of the Crater on July 30. Here, Lieutenant Hitchcock was wounded. He remained in service month while recuperating and mustered out August 31, 1864. By August the 21st Massachusetts had been reduced to a battalion of three under-strength companies. Still, the battalion persevered and was committed to combat at the Weldon Railroad and Poplar Springs Church. The remnants were soon consolidated out of existence by GO dated October 21, 1864, forced to merge with the under strength 36th Massachusetts. The price of glory was 159 officers and men killed and mortally wounded.
Henry Hitchcock returned home and lived the rest of his life in Fitchburg joining GAR Post #19 (Edwin V. Sumner) and answering the final roll call on December 7, 1897.
Provenance: Turner 1999 to Consignor.
Condition: Mothing on front and back of shoulders and collar with a hole on collar. Moth hole on right sleeve. Period repair holes on left elbow. Mothing on right and left skirt. Mothing and moth holes on back of right and left skirt. Inside lining show wearing underarms and chest. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 3000 - 5000
Henry Sparhawk Hitchcock of Templeton, Massachusetts joined Co. A, 21st Mass. as Sergeant on July 19, 1861 and served with the regiment until it literally fought itself out of existence in August 1864. Initially, the regiment was assigned to Burnside’s Expeditionary Corps and the Dept. of North Carolina, seeing early action at Roanoke, New Burn and Camden. The Bay Stater’s then joined the 9th Corps, Army of the Potomac and were solidly engaged at 2nd Bull Run and Chantilly where the 21st suffered heavy casualties. Several weeks later the regiment fought at South Mountain and Antietam and just afterwards Hitchcock was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant on September 25, 1862. The 21st was in the thick of the fighting at Fredericksburg helping to carry Burnside Bridge with significant losses. After a short respite the regiment transferred to Kentucky joining the 23rd Corps and was assigned to the defense of Knoxville during Longstreet’s brutal winter siege. On April 26, 1863 Henry Hitchcock was promoted 1st Lieutenant.
The regiment then veteranized and reverted to the 9th Corps, Army of the Potomac following furlough. The 21st had been much reduced and returned to field duty numbering slightly more than 200 all ranks. The regiment marched with Grant into the bloodletting of the Overland Campaign and suffered from purposeful attrition in the Wilderness, Spotsylvania and the Bethesda Church with a grim determination. The regiment then transferred to the Petersburg front and participated in the chaos known as battle of the Crater on July 30. Here, Lieutenant Hitchcock was wounded. He remained in service month while recuperating and mustered out August 31, 1864. By August the 21st Massachusetts had been reduced to a battalion of three under-strength companies. Still, the battalion persevered and was committed to combat at the Weldon Railroad and Poplar Springs Church. The remnants were soon consolidated out of existence by GO dated October 21, 1864, forced to merge with the under strength 36th Massachusetts. The price of glory was 159 officers and men killed and mortally wounded.
Henry Hitchcock returned home and lived the rest of his life in Fitchburg joining GAR Post #19 (Edwin V. Sumner) and answering the final roll call on December 7, 1897.
Provenance: Turner 1999 to Consignor.
Condition: Mothing on front and back of shoulders and collar with a hole on collar. Moth hole on right sleeve. Period repair holes on left elbow. Mothing on right and left skirt. Mothing and moth holes on back of right and left skirt. Inside lining show wearing underarms and chest. Overall condition is good.
EST $ 3000 - 5000
Civil War Infantry Lt. Colonel Frock Coat
Lot # 24 (Sale Order: 24 of 566)
A smart looking navy blue wool seven-button double-breasted infantry lieutenant colonel's' frock coat. Buttons are mixed infantry made by different manufacturers. Cuffs are two-button non-serviceable. Shoulder straps are blue cloth material with single gold bullion border and two gold embroidered oak leaves. Lining of coat is typical dark olive green with white lining in sleeves. Inside piped chest pocket on left side. Skirt is 19" to rough edge with 9" bell-shaped elbows. Back of coat has three seams that lead to center vent. Vent has two buttons at top and middle.
Consignor relates that "this coat came out of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area" in 2001. A prime example of a Civil War staff grade uniform that is otherwise unidentified.
Provenance: L. Strayer 2001 to Consignor
Condition: Lining of coat shows heavy signs of wear with several holes and areas of thinning. Signs of mothing throughout the coat and moth holes. Small hole below bottom button on left side. Each sleeve shows mothing and period repairs under each arm. The repair is cloth measuring 8" in length by 1" in width. Buttons are all Civil War Infantry buttons, but are not by the same manufacturer.
EST $ 4500 - 5500
Consignor relates that "this coat came out of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area" in 2001. A prime example of a Civil War staff grade uniform that is otherwise unidentified.
Provenance: L. Strayer 2001 to Consignor
Condition: Lining of coat shows heavy signs of wear with several holes and areas of thinning. Signs of mothing throughout the coat and moth holes. Small hole below bottom button on left side. Each sleeve shows mothing and period repairs under each arm. The repair is cloth measuring 8" in length by 1" in width. Buttons are all Civil War Infantry buttons, but are not by the same manufacturer.
EST $ 4500 - 5500
Nine Button Civil War Infantry Enlisted Frock Coat Identifed to Pvt. Thos. Kinsley, 45th Mass.
Lot # 25 (Sale Order: 25 of 566)
This uniform is the classic and difficult-to-find example of the 1861 regulation pattern Civil War infantry blue wool frock coat complete with sky blue piping on collar and cuffs. Made by an unknown government contractor, the coat is single-breasted with nine staff buttons, presumably a later GAR addition. Cuffs are serviceable. Inside of coat on left shoulder is a white cloth tab sewn and marked in ink: "T. Kinsley, Co. A., 45 Regt Mass Volunteer." Dark olive lining with wide quilted pattern in chest and shoulders. Inside piped breast pocket on each side. Sleeves are lined in white. Skirt is 19" and elbow is bell-shaped and 9" in width. Coat has two GAR medals named to Kinsley. Back center vent with 2 buttons at top of vent.
Thomas Kinsley (1843-1916) was a resident of Boston when he enlisted as a Pvt. in Co. A. 45th Mass. on Sept. 15, 1862. The 45th was a nine-month militia regiment organized at Camp Meigs. The regiment was sent to the Dept. of North Carolina where it was assigned to Amory's Brigade in Foster's Division for the duration of its service. In December 1862 the regiment participated in several scouts and the expedition to Goldsboro, seeing its first taste of combat at Kinston on December 14th, loosing 15 killed and 43 wounded. On December 16th the 45th fought at Whitehall suffering another 20 battle casualties. In January the regiment undertook an reconnaissance to Trenton and then returned to New Bern where it acted as city provost guard through the spring.
The 45th undertook another expedition to Goldsboro in April 1863 and successfully charged and captured a Confederate earthwork on the Dover Road. Thereafter, the regiment encamped at Fort Spinola before heading home in June and mustering out at Readville on July 7, 1863. Thomas Kinsley was a member of GAR Post #68 (Benjamin Stone, Jr.) in Dorchester after the war. He survived until 1916, recounting many a Remembrance Day, his treasured uniform maintained in near pristine condition during all those years.
Provenance: D. Taylor to Consignor 2003
Condition: No open seams but has 1 button missing. No major mothing. Overall condition is excellent.
EST $ 12000 - 15000
Thomas Kinsley (1843-1916) was a resident of Boston when he enlisted as a Pvt. in Co. A. 45th Mass. on Sept. 15, 1862. The 45th was a nine-month militia regiment organized at Camp Meigs. The regiment was sent to the Dept. of North Carolina where it was assigned to Amory's Brigade in Foster's Division for the duration of its service. In December 1862 the regiment participated in several scouts and the expedition to Goldsboro, seeing its first taste of combat at Kinston on December 14th, loosing 15 killed and 43 wounded. On December 16th the 45th fought at Whitehall suffering another 20 battle casualties. In January the regiment undertook an reconnaissance to Trenton and then returned to New Bern where it acted as city provost guard through the spring.
The 45th undertook another expedition to Goldsboro in April 1863 and successfully charged and captured a Confederate earthwork on the Dover Road. Thereafter, the regiment encamped at Fort Spinola before heading home in June and mustering out at Readville on July 7, 1863. Thomas Kinsley was a member of GAR Post #68 (Benjamin Stone, Jr.) in Dorchester after the war. He survived until 1916, recounting many a Remembrance Day, his treasured uniform maintained in near pristine condition during all those years.
Provenance: D. Taylor to Consignor 2003
Condition: No open seams but has 1 button missing. No major mothing. Overall condition is excellent.
EST $ 12000 - 15000
