This great sword is engraved ​E.C. Williams – U.S.N on the top of the scabbard mount. It was carried by ​Ensign Ethan Cortland Williams ​who enlisted in the Navy on Nov.7 , 1862 and was discharged on Sept.15 ,1865. He served on the St. Clair, Juliet , and the Tempest (Flagship) in the Mississippi Squadron. The sword blade is 28" and stamped Collins & Co. Hartford, Conn. 1862. It is etched in 16" panels with various naval motifs, including a block "USN", oars, and an anchor. The etching is excellent retaining most of its original frost with the rest of the blade bright. The spiral silver grip is bound by triple brass wire wrap. The guard has typical acorn and leaf design with "USN" in a ribbon. Quillon and knuckle bow terminate as sea serpent heads. Pommel has extra floral decorations around the perimeter. Leather scabbard has brass mounted throat and middle mount. Ring mounts are cast like rope knots and mounts are florally decorated with throat also having block USN engraved The brass exhibits areas of gold guilding in protected areas. The brass retains a matching golden patina. The scabbard is missing its drag and the leather is still solid with some minor scuffing.
​Ensign​ Williams ​not only saw action on the Mississippi and Red River but also chronicled it after the War. He wrote his first article in 1886 for the Ohio Mollus titled "Recollections of the Red River Expedition". The second article was written in 1890 titled "The Cruise of the Black Terror". Both articles are great with the second containing humor which you would not expect as the subject matter is the fall of Vicksburg. Copies of these articles will come with the sword. Also, a picture of ​Ensign Williams ​in uniform, 1897 picture of Matilda his wife and a pretty thick file containing his service records. After the War he attended Harvard​ and received his Law degree. He practiced Law until his death in 1890.
Civil War identified naval swords are fairly scarce and this one comes with some pretty neat history!
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