Colonel Towson's Presentation Sword
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This presentation sword and scabbard were commissioned by the Maryland General Assembly in 1832 for Colonel Nathan Towson (1784-1854) as a testimony to the "admiration and gratitude of his native state for his distinguished gallantry, and highly valuable service during the last war with Great Britain." Towson, who was born in Towson, Maryland, rose to the rank of major during the War of 1812, showing particular valor in capturing the ship HMS Caledonia. The sword’s hilt, decorated with stars, also notes the decisive battles of the war in which Towson fought, including “Caledonian, Chippewa, Bridewater and Niagara.” The scabbard is decorated with the Maryland Seal of 1794, designed by Charles Willson Peale and officially used until 1817.
Towson was later promoted to colonel and appointed
paymaster-general of the U.S. Army, ultimately becoming a
brigadier general in 1834, the same year this sword was
completed by Philadelphia silversmith Thomas Fletcher
(1787-1866).
Maker: Thomas Fletcher (1787-1866)
Title:
Presentation sword for Colonel Nathan Towson (1784-1854)
Date: 1834
Medium: Yellow gold and steel
Dimensions: Overall L 37" x W 5"; blade L 31" x
W 1 ⅛"
Accession Number: MSA SC 1545-3474
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