An exceptional and historically significant American Civil War presentation sword inscribed and presented in July of 1863 to Captain M. K. Cook, who served as Aide-de-Camp to Union Major General Stephen A. Hurlbut. This finely constructed and highly ornate sword stands as both a superior example of mid-19th century military craftsmanship and a compelling documentary artifact directly connected to the command structure of the Union Army during one of the most pivotal moments of the war.
The sword is a high-grade Model 1840 Foot Officer’s sword with General Officer embellishments, assembled by the noted Parisian outfitter E. Lyon, whose work is recognized for its superior quality and reliance on imported Klingenthal blades. The guard bears the oval EL stamp beneath three stars, consistent with Lyon’s mark as recorded in John H. Thillmann’s Civil War Army Swords. The blade is further stamped with French inspection poinçons including an “S” within a shield and a crowned “B” within a shield, marks associated with Klingenthal production and commonly encountered on Lyon-assembled export swords of the Civil War period.
The hilt features an elaborate double-cell counterguard, cast with an American eagle clutching a Roman-style shield of twisted lightning bolts, an unusual and distinctive embellishment on a Model 1840 form and indicative of a special-order or presentation-grade example. The sword retains its original plated metal scabbard and presents as a cohesive and authentic period assembly of superior quality.
Most significant is the engraved presentation inscription on the guard, reading:
“Presented to Capt M. K. Cook / Aid to Maj Genl Hurlbut / by his friends Wm R Manning and Frank M Hubbell / July 1863.”
This inscription documents the sword as a wartime presentation to Captain Cook during his service on the personal staff of Major General Stephen A. Hurlbut, a prominent Union commander in the Western Theater. Presentation swords of this caliber were typically commissioned by associates or community figures to honor distinguished service, promotion, or departure, and they represent both personal tribute and public recognition. The inclusion of the donors’ names further reinforces the ceremonial and commemorative nature of the piece.
A secondary later inscription on the guard records a subsequent owner, suggesting continued family or private ownership and adding an additional layer to the sword’s postwar history.
Altogether, this is a rare and compelling Civil War presentation sword combining superior French manufacture, documented wartime presentation, and direct association with the staff of a Union Major General. It represents an outstanding example of mid-19th century military artistry and a tangible link to the personal networks and honors of Union command during the height of the American Civil War.
Condition:
Overall excellent antique condition with expected age and use. Blade, hilt, and scabbard present as a coherent and original period assembly with an attractive, undisturbed surface and clear inscription.
Provenance:
Private Midwest collection. Presented July 1863 to Captain M. K. Cook, Aide-de-Camp to Major General Stephen A. Hurlbut, by William R. Manning and Frank M. Hubbell.