AMERICAN SECRET SOCIETY SWORD, LATE 19TH CENTURY

Late 19th century. Gilt hilt with bow tie form guard and plumed helmet form pommel retaining considerable original gold. Silvered white metal (probably zinc) grip. 23 1/2" blade. Completely unmarked suggesting a clandestine organization. While many secret societies promoted the welfare of their members and society in general, the binding element for some was a common hatred for another group. As well, the post-Civil War years saw a growing militancy among labor groups. Numerous violent encounters including armed conflicts and lynchings resulted in both cases. This sword evidently served one such group.