New Arrivals!

THANKS FOR LOOKING !!! TED & SALLIE

WE HAVE BEEN DOING LAYAWAYS ON A LIMITED BASIS BUT DUE TO THE ECONOMY NOW WE HAVE DECIDED TO OFFER THE LAYAWAY OPTION TO EVERYONE. OUR TERMS ARE 25% OF THE TOTAL PURCHASE DOWN WITH THE OTHER 75% PAYABLE IN 3 EQUAL MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF 25% OF THE INITIAL BALANCE. NO PENALTY FOR USING YOUR CREDIT CARD EITHER. CHECK THE INDEX PAGE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. THANKS!

Here's my partner and constant companion. His name is Barney and he never talks back or disagrees with any business decision! Sometimes I believe he should disagree with some of my business decisions! Anyway, you gotta love this guy!

SORRY BUT WE DON'T SELL OR SHIP FIREARMS OR US USED SWORDS OUT OF THE US AND EVERY ITEM COMES WITH A 3 DAY INSPECTION PERIOD.

Here's a little restored Jewel! This is one of the best looking little Boy's rifles that I've seen in a long time!! According to Flayderman's there were many variations of this little rifle. This is the 32 rimfire model with a part round part octagon barrel with standard open sights. The blue is excellent and the wood is excellent with one little sliver being replaced on the bottom of the stock behind the trigger guard but hardly noticeable. The little sliver is about 1 3/4 inches long by 3/16 inches to 1/4 inches wide. That's the only mentionable defect to this piece. The action is tight and the markings are sharp. The restoration was done right. The rifling is sharp as well. I was going to take more pics but my camera died. I'll try to get more when I get more batteries. This one is nice!!! This one was made in the early 1900's so it will have to go to an FFL holder or a C&R license holder. $375.00

Heres a little colt .31 caliber pocket bullet mold that is just missing the little spru cutter screw. This is the all original iron model and you can still see COLT'S PATENT on the top of it. This mold has a great patina but my flash makes it look shiny- It is not. Getting hard to find! $125.00

Here's a nice little single shot 22 that I believe was made in Europe as it has foreign proof marks on it. This is a nice little nickle plated pistol with birds head grips that probably dates to the 1870's. Very unique little cartridge pistol. Functions very well. $175.00

I just love dug weapons and here's a couple that I just picked up. These are from a gentleman's estate. It is said that he dug them in the south and southwest but I'm afraid the history has been lost. Anyway, they are what they are! The first one is a nice dug Smith & Wesson Model 1 Second Issue 7 shot 22 caliber weapon that was so popular with the individual soldiers. This one even has an '0M' engraved by a novice hand on the backstrap. This piece has a lot of pitting and ground action. The action does not function but it's mostly complete as you can see in the pics. Most of the original wooden grips are still there too! The pice does open up at the hinge and the cylinder does come out. The serial number of 35841 places this little gun as having been made in 1863. If only it could talk!!! $275.00

Here's a Remington Model 1858 44 caliber revolver that's now just the frame. I can just make out the serial number on the buttplate frame of 123830? and I see a military inspections initial of 'd' on the piece as well. What's left is as solid as a rock! If only it could talk!!! The hammer is frozen in the frame. This would make a good dug Cavalry Display piece!!! Same story as the one above. $275.00

A VERY GOOD MID/LATE 19TH CENTURY BELGIAN MARKED BACK ACTION FLINTLOCK AFRICAN TRADE GUN, ca. 1870-1900: The band-secured, 37", smoothbore, .69 caliber barrel with a under barrel bayonet stud and blade fore-sight: unmarked breech. Light colored hardwood (beechnut) fullstock with sharp contours and very light handling marks. In overall near excellent condition with lightly toned steel surfaces and a very fine stock with much of its finish. The iron surfaces a smooth steel-gray patina and some light patches of surface discoloration. The stock retains nearly all of its finish (95%) and has only the lightest of handling marks. Full iron mounts of "French"-type design. The Barrel bands are screw-retained barrel-bands with one missing. There are two iron sling-swivels and the screw-fastened buttplate is marked with a " R. 91." over a "2848" marking. Plain iron ramrod with round button and a "Belguim" style trigger guard. Back-Action Flintlock mechanism with its bridled iron powder-pan and its original reinforced hammer. In functional order with a good mainspring and timing: retains an age-patina with some cleaning with the barrel and its original components and screws. This barrel does have the ELG in an oval that is typical of Belguim arms. In overall very good+ original flintlock condition with sharp stock contours, crisp marking -- on the buttplate-tang and smooth steel-gray surfaces. A very fine example of a Belgian mid to late 19th century African Trade Musket, ca. 1870-1900. The type of gun sold to native Colonials, in the Congo, etc. Overall length, 52 5/8". $785.00

We just picked up this piece here in Central Indiana. This is an unmarked Bacon 32 caliber single shot pistol that has the barrel that swivels to the side for loading. This piece uses a cartridge and is definitely not percussion. Bacon made several of these small pistols and even provided them to other retailers. This one is in good condition but needs a new trigger return spring. Also the main spring had been broken at one time but was period repaired and is nice and stiff. If you push the trigger forward it will cock and fire as it should. The serial number is an early 850 and matches on the frame and trigger as well as on the grips and barrel. The brass frame is a nice mellow rich color and the barrel looks to have been cleaned at one time but some patina is returning. There is no manufacturers name on this piece. These little pieces can bring upwards of $850 but since this one needs a little work then the price is $350. Nice little Civil War era gun at a reduced price!

Here's a Civil War era Muley Saddle that I picked up from Virginia in the Shenadoah Valley area. The saddle is in good condition but I don't believe it can be used for anything but display. It's missing one of the hooded stirrups but it's a very reasonably priced display piece that fits right into a Confederate Cavalry display! Purchase for $295.00 Look at the pics!

I've just picked up some confederate notes so here goes! All guaranteed Authentic!

This first bill is a type 65 Feb. 17, 1864 SN# 15692 Confederate $100 note that's been torn in half and taped back together again. This is the "Women of the South" featuring Lucy Pickens, the wife of Francis W. Pickens who was governor of South Carolina 1860-1862. Confederate cabinet member George Randolph rightside. Two Confederate soldiers at lower left. Other than the tear this bill is in pretty good condition. $65.00

Here is a fine Confederate $20 note, type 67, Feg 17, 1864 SN# 27908. This piece has folds and a couple of tiny pin holes but not bad at all. Blue back. Not cancelled. Nice! $65.00

Here is a fine Confederate $2 note, Type 61, April 6, 1863. clean back. Some folds but still very nice. Looks a little worn but no cut cancels. $55.00

Here's another CS $2 note being a Type 70 note, Feb. 17, 1864, SN# 40179 with a clean reverse. This one has a little more wear than the previous $2 note but still a good example. This one has folds as well but no cut cancels. $50.00

Here's another CS $10 note. This one is a Type 28, Sept. 2, 1861 note with the serial number of 133422. This one is fine with a couple of pin holes and folds. Still very nice! Clean back. $50.00

Here's another fine CS $10 note being the Type 67, Feb 17, 1864. There are a couple of folds but no holes and no cuts. Nice! $65.00 Note: That little logo you see in the bottom right of the bill in both photos is just in the photograph and not on the note itself.

This is a SNY box plate that I recently picked up. The front of the plate has nice age to it and looks great. A previous owner decided to clean up the back lead portion somewhat as you can tell in the pic. The two iron hooks are still present but rusty and you can see where the back was cleaned right up to the hooks. The top of the plate is rolled down somewhat from being dropped at some point. The rest of the plate seems ok though. This is a nice plate! $425.00

Here we have a good little Cooper Civil War Revolver in 31 caliber. I believe it was converted to 32 caliber with the conversion. This is a double action revolver however the trigger needs a little help returning and the cylinder doesn't turn properly every time. The revolver does lock up. The serial number is 253 on all the numbered parts. The loading lever was purposely taken off during the conversion. The markings are very clear and the original grips have a great amount of the original varnish on them. This is a good revolver with a great patina. There is a tiny little hole near the hammer that you can see in the pic. I believe this was a result of the conversion. You may never find another! $850.00

Here is a nice early buck type saw that smacks of Rev War vintage. This is a wonderful piece with a French made blade. This piece is in excellent condition and displays very well! Measures about 26 inches long by 14 inches tall. The blade is held in tension by the cord at the top. The pieces at the bottom just hold the blade in the guides. I believe it is made of pine but I'm not sure. Take a look at the pics. This piece has a dark patina. $125.00

We've come across an 1850 Foot Officer's Sword made by Sauerbier of New Jersey. Henry Sauerbier was a cutler/ edged tool maker who in 1848 took over a business started by John H. Crawford in Newark, New Jersey. In 1851, Aaron Crawford had this firm in his own name and formed Crawford, Brown & Sauerbier. This firm was dissolved in 1853 and in 1855 Henry Sauerbier & Company started manufacturing saddle, harness and shoemakers tools. His early tools were marked: H. SAUERBIER. Around 1870 tools became marked: H. SAUERBIER & SONS. Henry died in 1874 and from 1875 to 1887 the business name was H. SAUERBIER'S SONS.

During the war, he also made a variation of the M1840 cavalry swords as well as non-regulation cavalry enlisted and officer's swords plus M1850 foot officer swords, and M1860 staff and field officer's swords. He is noted for making very unusual presentation swords with picture, soldier-head and precious stone pommels. He utilized silver and pewter hilts and as well as silver and pewter decorations on the hilts and scabbards on these swords. He also sold swords to several other retailers, including Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, in addition to selling blades to many silversmiths. Many of Sauerbier's swords are not marked but have distinctive differences from other swords. The pommel cap usually has a 'hump' in the center of it unlike other Union Swords. Most of Sauerbier's swords also use a spanner type nut on the tang to hold the sword together. The fuller's on Sauerbier's swords are ususally unstopped and are sometimes misidentified as Confederate because of this.

This 1850 Foot officers sword is not marked and is in great condition complete with sharkskin/shagreen wrapped grip lacking the twisted brass wire. The sword is tight and in very good uncleaned condition. The blade may have been wiped down some but is nice with a somewhat mottled finish. The entire piece measures about 36 inches long with a 30 1/4 inch blade that has been unsharped as it should be. There is some light pitting here and there on the blade but not detrimental at all. This is a nice piece! Unfortunately, no scabbard. Came from Virginia. Check out the pics! Nice!! $395.00

For sale is an unmarked antique McClellan style saddle with a 14"-15" seat. The fenders are attached with rawhide and the stirrup straps have no buckles. The saddle is solid and great for display. The seat has an open seam. This old Civil War type saddle reeks of character! Complete with wear and a rosette missing here and there. From the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. This saddle would fit in either a US of CS Cavalry Display! Outstanding relic! $495.00

Here's an original Anheuser-Busch 1952 Rendition of the original 'CUSTER'S LAST FIGHT' on cardboard by O. Becker. It measures 41" X 28" and has had the original wood grained cardboard painted white to supposively cover up the Budweiser advertising- good art but belonged to prohibitionists. The original dated 1952 sticker is on the back. There is a couple of places where pins were put in but you have to really look to find them. Check out the pics as I'm sure there is artistic licensing here but it's quite graphic! Nice color and would look great on the wall! Little damage here and there but I don't see many of these around now. $175.00

Here's a dug 1873 Winchester in, I believe, 44 caliber. It's really hard to tell but it is a large caliber. I was told that this piece was recovered in the Southern California desert some years ago. Who knows how it got there or why it was left exposed. Perhaps running from Indians or fighting with Banditos! Who knows but makes for good stories! The desert is usually dry but it does rain 1 or 2 good times a year. What you see is what it is. It's been mounted to a board for display but not finished with hangers. $275.00

Here's a nice example of an 1850's photograph referred to as a Daguerrotype. Looking at it from certain angles makes it look like a mirror. It was a poisonious occupation that used mercury in the photographic process on a copper plate so photographers turned to ambrotypes and tintypes for safety. This photo is in the 6th plate size and is very clear with some spotting to the plate on the lower left hand side. The case is in good condition with tape on the spline. Still clear and definitely a look into the past. This young man was probably 18 or 19 in this photograph and definitely old enough to participate in the Civil War some 10 years or so later. $45.00

Here is a WW1 and perhaps WW2 used item. This is a Model 1907 Springfield Rifle Sling that was produced by Rossi Saddlery Company of St. Joseph, MO. This sling is simply marked with a simple RS indicating Rossi Saddlery. The sling is in very nice aged condition! $65.00

Here is a English made Snake Buckle and keeper that is made of tinned iron construction. This piece came from a Cincinnati Costume shop years ago. I believe it to be old unusued stock, perhaps from Bannermans. This type buckle was used by both sides during the War although it's usually associated with Confederates. $95.00

Here is a very well aged leather shot pouch that has a Union Shield on the front. This leather shot pouch is well used with repairs to the seams and a piece of wire holding the spout to the leather body. This is a fine example of what the soldier armed with a shotgun had to carry for ammo that he used. Of course, civilians carried shot pouches as well but I believe it's a bit unusual to have the patriotic shield on the front for a sportsman. This old pouch still has some shot in it. The leather is still supple. This would display well with a military used shotgun! $65.00

This next item is a good example of an aged Pantographic Knife or Paratroopers Knife that was supposively made popular by the German Paratroopers of WW2. This example is marked BEST STEEL in several areas and also No. 5 The piece measures about 6 inches closed and 8 inches when fully opened. The blade has mottling on it and the tip is blunted somewhat. The brass shows a good patina and has a ding here and there. Very unusual! Check out the pics! $65.00

Here's a bayonet of a type that I ususally don't pick up but a young man needed a little money so here it is. This is a Swiss Bayonet that is in great condtion with a nice double edge blade. This type of bayonet is on the cover of the new book AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY - BAYONETS by Martin J. Brayley. Onpage 212 the book talks about this type of bayonet. This is the SIG 57 bayoned and is a fine example of workmanship. This bayonet is made of stainless steel and is exceptionally well finished. While the Swiss may have been lading the way as far as quality of bayonet finish was concerned, the bayonet frog still relied on the well-tried and tested leater. The SIG 57 uses an unusual fixing catch that has to be pushed down away from the pommel rather than pressed in. This moved the locking bolt out of the round bayonet bar of the rivle, releasing the bayonet. This is an exceptional example of a well made bayonet complete with scabbard. The ricasso is marked VICTORIA SCHWYZ 3841 on one side and has a F W + in a circle on the other side. Nice! $45.00

This is a wonder dug Manhattan Revolver that came from the Wilson's Creek Battlefield area in Mussouri. The Second Major Battle of the Civil War, Wilson's Creek was the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River, and the scene of the death of Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union general killed in combat. Although a Southern victory, the Southerners failed to capitalize on their success. This 5 shot Manhattan Pocket 36 caliber 'Navy' Model Revolver was made after 1859 and has a 6 1/2 inch barrel. Although in two pieces with the barrel being separate from the cylinder and frame, they were found together and definitely belong together. You can see where one cylinder is rusted through. None of the cylinders are still loaded. This piece is stable but has not been coated. There is no active rusting. As far as dug pieces go this is a great piece! $375.00

This is one nice little hardwood canteen that may date as far back as the Revolutionary War era. This is a 2 iron banded canteen with a pewter turn spout that unscrews to place liquids in the canteen. The pewter spout screws into wooden threads. The little pewter spout is made to have a small stopper or cork in it that would have a little chain or string tied to one of the pewter ears on the spout. This piece measures abut 6 1/2 inches long by 4 3/8 inches wide and 3 inches tall being mostly elipitical in shape. There are a couple of cracks from shrinkage due to age so it won't hold water but what a wonderful little piece that just reeks of character!!! This is a wonderfully made little canteen! $325.00

Here is a nice 1858 Remington New Model Army Revolver in 44 caliber. This one is in good condition and functions perfectly and is pretty tight. The grips may be replacements (no cartouch) and the grip screw needs replaced-it's there just not correct. When I picked up this piece it had 'cold blue' on the metal surfaces but I've managed to clean most of it off showing a nice patina underneath. I see at least one inspectors initial on this piece. There is some very light pitting on this gun, especially the cylinder, but not bad at all. All the nipples are present and in good shape. The serial number is 10320X (one digit missing on the barrel but present on the grip frame). According to Rafael Eledge of Shiloh's Civil War Relics and the Antique Roadshow program, there were 120,000 of this model made before war's end so this piece would have seen Civil War usage. The markings on the barrel are mostly clear but 'NEW MODEL' is not present but is not unusual. This is a very nice revolver! $895.00

Here is what I think, the prototype for the Wm. S. Butler Single Shot Pistol. Wm. Butler made these pistols in Rocky Hill, Connecticut in 1857 and are rare! This is the only one that I've seen in the flesh. This is a 36 caliber, 2 1/2 inch round barrel pistol with a centrally mounted single action bar type hammer. The listed examples have a shotgun type hammer and are marked on the frame WM. S. BUTLER'S PATENT,/PATENTED FEB 3, 1857. Because this example does not have those markings on it and a cruder hammer than those listed I believe it may be the prototype prior to production. This hammer type is similiar to the pepperboxes made prior to 1857 and is probably where the idea for the style came from. The Shotgun type hammer was more practical and that is what the listed types have. The unique thing about this pistol is that it is an all one-piece cast iron frame and long bag shaped iron handle made integral. The screws you can see are replacements and there is one crack in the frame you can see but this rare piece is solid as a rock. The patina of the hammer pretty well matches the patina of the weapon itself so I believe they've been together for a long time. This is one unique weapon! It's in excellent working condition! $450.00

Here is a small caliber 6 shot Pinfire Revolver with folding trigger and is complete. This piece is complete and works in single and double action. The markings show that this is a very nice Belguim made pistol. The pistol is black mostly but it is not cold blue. It's a kind of matte finish while the cylinder unloading pin is finished bright. The wooden grips are in great condition! Nice piece overall. $275.00

Here's another pretty nice little small caliber 6 shot pinfire revolver with folding trigger. This piece is missing the latch on the loading gate but at least the gate is there. The unloading lever is also missing but otherwise this piece is complete. This is a Belguim made pistol with one hole in the bottom of the grip that I believe was there to hold a laynard ring now lacking. This piece is finished bright and looks to be in good condition. This little pistol works in single and double action however the cylinder does not index. Still a nice desireable display piece! Many pinfires were carried off to the Civil War and they remained popular thoughout the 1870's. $225.00

Here's a nice little grouping of an old small caliber pinfire pistol in an original leather flap down holster. We'll talk about the pistol first. This little pinfire has very nice hardwood grips that are in great condition. The finish on the pistol is mottled but still looks good. There is no loading gate and the cylinder unloading pin is missing. The cylinder turns in double and single action however the hammer does not function in double action but the hammer does function in single action. There is a serial number present on the octagon barrel of, I believe, 2703. There is a Belguim proofmark on the cylinder. The holster is in great shape for it's age and is marked SEARS ROBUCK & CO. CHICAGO along the edge. I believe the pistol to be from the 1860's/1870's however the holster was probably made in the 1890's when the company was formed. These 2 items go great together and would look great in a display of the Old West! $295.00

Here's a blacksmith made pair of Iron Knuckles of the Civil War Era. Iron and lead knuckles were popular amongst the soldiers for personal protection. These knucks were made from one piece of strip iron being curved around to fit over the fingers and into the palm. They have been cleaned some as they were very rusty when found but they should patina back up in those cleaner areas. Most of the original dark patina is present. Very unique and definitely one of a kind! $125.00 See a very close example of this type of iron knuckles in Lord's Civil War Encyclopedia.

Here is a very nice Civil War era coffee pot that measures about 9 inches tall and is 6 1/2 inches across the base. This piece is in excellent original condition but has definitely been used. Sheet iron and solder construction. $125.00

Here's an Ames Cavalry Saber that I just picked up from an Indianapolis area man who's Dad won it in a poker game years ago. At first glance it was just another old $450 - $500 cavalry sabre but after carefully looking it over it's a time tested old battle veteran! This is an Ames Cavalry Saber and so marked on the Ricasso as AMES MFG CO. CHICOPEE MASS and on the other side is U.S. G.G.S. (civilian inspector G.G.Saunders) and the great date of 1861 (the first '1' is worn down to a trace but the other numbers are sharp). Sorry that my camera doesn't pick up the markings but they are there- guaranteed! This old boy has been around! The brass handguard has been bent down to catch sword blades and the blade has been sharpened somewhat. There are also some nicks in the blade from use. The brass is a nice patina while the blade is mottled. The grip has most of the leather present and the aged brass wire has been replaced. The saber blade is the correct length and is missing the leather blade washer. I do see inspectors worn initials on the pommel cap but not on the rest of the sword or on the scabbard. The scabbard is complete with a dent here and there and take a look at that drag! This piece dragged on the ground most of the time this cavalryman is off his horse! Both the sword and scabbard have a super patina. This sword has never been taken apart. Sorry but the history of this piece was not passed on at that poker game. Nice displayable piece that was actually there!!! $975.00

I just picked up the 8 inch US Mortar Shell that has been deactivated and is safe to display. This piece is in very nice condition and weights about 45 pounds. Sorry but I don't know where it was gathered from. These items show up from time to time and unfortunately the history has been lost. Well, it is what it is! Nice condition! $325.00

This is a pretty nice dark blue covered bulls eye Civil War Canteen. The cover is very complete with no mothing. and has the cork stopper with chain. Pewter spout. Just missing the strap however all the sling guides are there with bends. Overall a very nice piece with no dents! $325.00

This is an item we just picked up. This is most likely a Civil War Smoking Cap used by a soldier because of the '6' insignia added to the front. Could be a Zouave cap or fez but most likely a smoking cap. This piece is red wool with blue tassels. I've included a photo of a soldier wearing such a cap but the photo is not for sale. The cap is in great shape but the tassels show age and wear. Take a look! From Kennebunkport, Maine $375.00

HOLD-ON LAYAWAY! Here is a Model 1853 Enfield Sword with leather grips that was popular during the Civil War. This one is in great shape and has been painted silver at one time. I have not taken the time to clean it off because it was propably put on by members of the Grand Army of the Republic for display. The GAR used to paint everything silver or gold! This is most likely a CS used piece and was brought back as a souvenir. There is a great patina under the paint! The entire piece is unmarked and the blade is nearly pristine with no nicks! This is a nice piece! From California but no history. $675.00

This is a small caliber (around 28 to 30 caliber) single shot pistol that was a favorite with soldiers and gamblers! The piece has a pretty nice patina and functions as it should. Unmarked. Overall 5 1/2 inches long. $195.00

Here is a nice old Revolutionary War Pike head made of iron. This piece is 14 inchs long and is in good condition. Chicago Area. Appears dug but Nice!! $275.00

Here's a blacksmith/gunsmith made underhammer pistol in about 32 caliber or so. The entire piece is 17 inches long with a 10 + inch barrel. The trigger holds on half cock but you must push the trigger foward to hold on full cock. The front and rear sight has wear but still there! There are no markings anywhere. The pistol has a walnut stock with no cracks or breaks. Check out the rifling! Sharp and deep! Nice and entirely unique!!! From Indianapolis. $275.00

Here is an Smith & Wesson old Army #2 in 32 caliber. This piece is in overall nice condition with minor pitting here and there. The top of the trigger spur has been broken off but the action works fine. Markings are pretty sharp on the top of the barrel. Barrel hinge is pretty tight. This gun is better looking that my pics show. Has the initials of LK on the right grip. From California. $875.00

Here's an old 12 ga double barreled percussion shotgun with back action locks. The double barrel shotgun was used a great deal during the Civil War by Southern Soldiers. There are no markings on this gun except for a couple of proof marks so I believe the gun to be a foreign import. The hammers are different a little and I don't know which one is original and which is the replacement. The action works best on the right side but both sides do work. I wouldn't fire this old gun but it is a good example of this type of percussion shotgun. The wood is in good condition with a couple of chips of wood missing from below both locks and one small crack of about 1 inch by one of the chips. The original ramrod with the tulip shaped brass end is present as well. Nice display piece! $275.00

Here we have a Regulation 1874 Pattern Waist Belt Plate, Army Officer, ca. 1890-1920. This piece is gilt die-struck rolled brass plate with applied tongue and belt loop bar. If the wreath was silver plated I can't tell it now. This is a nice aged example with alot of the original gilt left. No maker's markings. $95.00

The following items are items that I just got from an Indiana Estate. They are: 1. Here is a nice book entitled 'THE COMPANY CLERK: SHOWING HOW AND WHEN TO MAKE OUT ALL THE RETURNS, REPORTS, ROLLS, AND OTHER PAPERS, AND WHAT TO DO WITH THEM by Capt. August V. Kautz, 6th U.S.Cavalry printed by J.B.Lippincott & Co., 1864. This book is id'd to Lieut Burton K. Gustin of the 52nd Pennsylvania Infantry. Look at the pics. The 52nd PA Infantry's history is:

Pennsylvania 52nd INFANTRY (3 Years) Fifty-second Infantry.-Cols., John C. Dodge, Jr., Henry M. Hoyt, J B. Conyngham; Lieut.-Cols., Henry M. Hoyt, J. B. Conyngham, John A. Hennessy; Majs., J. B. Conyngham, Thomas B. Jayne, John A. Hennessy, George R. Lennard. On Aug. 1, 1861, John C. Dodge, Jr., formerly captain in the 11th infantry, three months service, was authorized by Gov. Curtin to recruit this regiment. The men rendezvoused at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, coming principally from the counties of Luzerne, Clinton, Wyoming, Union, Bradford, and Columbia, and were mostly well formed, hardy, young men, familiar with the use of the rifle. The Wyoming cornet band of Wilkes Barre of I6 pieces, accompanied the regiment, which completed its organization on Nov. 5, 1861. On the 8th it left for Washington, where it went into camp on Kalorama heights and in January went into winter quarters on Meridian hill, being temporarily brigaded with the 104th Pa., 56th N. Y., and IIth Me. Later the 52nd was assigned to the 1st brigade (Gen. Naglee), 3d division (Gen. Casey), 4th corps (Gen. Keyes). It left for the front on March 28 1862, sailing to Newport News; moved thence to Lee's mill, shared in the siege of Yorktown; was engaged at Williamsburg and Fair Oaks, losing in the last named battle one-half of the 240 officers and men who went into action. A company of sharpshooters of 1OO men from the 52nd commanded by Capt. G. P. Davis, achieved distinction in this campaign. During the famous Seven Days' battles Gen. Naglee's brigade rendered highly important service in holding the railroad and Bottom's bridges over the Chickahominy, and the White Oak swamp bridge. Says Gen. Naglee in his report: "Thus for seven days were the men of my brigade constantly on duty. On the 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th of June the safety of the army depended on our holding the railroad and Bottom's bridges and on the 30th upon holding the bridge at White Oak swamp. Many day and night for four days, stood to their middle in water of the Chickahominy swamp, and all impressed with the responsible duty required of them, served their country in this hour of trial, enduring the most excessive labor, fatigue and exhaustion with extraordinary endurance and cheerfulness." On Aug. 20 it arrived at Yorktown with its brigade and while here the men were trained as heavy artillerists. In December it reported to Gen. Foster, in North Carolina and in the latter part of Jan., 1863, sailed to Port Royal, S. C. Early in April the 52nd moved up the North Edisto river to within 12 miles of Charleston, but the naval attack on the city having failed, it returned to Beaufort, then moved to Folly island and later to James island, where it engaged the enemy at Secessionville during the siege of Fort Wagner. From this time on it shared in the siege of Fort Wagner. In December a large portion of the men reenlisted and went home on veteran furlough. On their return the regiment, recruited to 1,000 strong, remained at Hilton Head, making an occasional raid into the interior. On July 3, 1864, in an assault on Fort Johnson, it lost 7 killed, 16 wounded and more than 1OO captured. It remained on Morris island during the summer and fall of 1864, and performed picket duty as boat infantry in the harbor through the winter. After the evacuation of Charleston, the 52nd joined Sherman's army in its march through the Carolinas and after Johnston's surrender it served for a few weeks at Salisbury, N. C. It was finally mustered out at Harrisburg, Pa , July 12, 1865. Source: The Union Army, vol. 1

This is a very nice book with somewhat bent boards as he definitely carried this book during 1864-1864. If you look at the pic with his ink id in it you can see that he had this book during his stay in Beaufort, S.C. This outfit participated in the assault on Fort Wagner that the all black 54th Massachuttes unit was so famous for! One form is loose that I have taken a pic of and it is form 13. Annual Regimental Return for Alterations and Casualties. There is a little foxing to the first couple of pages then there is no more. This is a great piece of Civil War History Id'd! $195.00

Here's a very nice dug 12# Confederate Side Loader shell with lead side plug. It looks to have been in salt water somewhere but is cleaned and coated to prevent further damage. Unfortunately the location of the recovery has been lost but still it is what it is. Still nice and very displayable! This shell is safe to display as it has been disarmed. $395.00

Here's the last item that I picked up from the estate so far. This is a Hotchkiss Shell - Complete - This is a 3" case shot with 3 flame grooves. Nose, base and forcing band are entact. Has a brass paper time fuse holder. This piece has ground action but has been cleaned and coated to prevent further damage. Sorry, but the info on where it was dug has been lost with the loss of the collector who owned it. Still a very nice displayable shell! The shell is safe to display as it has been disarmed. About 7 inches long. $295.00

Here's an original Civil War Era Tintype Photo of Policemen in Winter Clothing. This tintype was found in Saratoga Springs, NY and measures 2 3/8" x 3 5/8". It was found loose, not in a case but we'll place it in an album mounting. Very good, clean condition. This is an original photo of the period and hard to find subject matter!! $145.00

Here's a model 1904 McClellan saddle that is worth of restoration. The saddle is in good condition with the stitching being excellent. Everything is there except one of the cinch straps. If you happen to have one of those straps I would purchase it to complete this saddle. The saddle is dirty and needs cleaning. Inspectors markings are on various places. Some marks on the seat like raking a smooth spur on it while mounting or dismounting all being on the same side. This is an 11 inch seat. Take a look at the pics. $295.00

Here's a GRAND OLD ARMY slouch type hat with GAR hat pin and Black cord that we turn up from time to time. This outfit is in great conditon with an importers mark and retailers mark in the crown of the hat. The hat was made by HERBERT JOHNSON 38 NEW BOND ST. LONDON and was imported by MARSHALL FIELD & CO. CHICAGO - MADE IN ENGLAND. Excellent condition. This hat was found near Noblesville, Indiana but with no history I'm not sure that's where it originated so it could be a marriage as could the hat below. This fine old black hat has no damage whatsoever and has the bound upturned brim and large size sweat band being about 2 inches tall. The hat is about a 7 1/2. You simply do not find these old hats with or without a GAR badge. Nice!!!! $225.00

Here's another hat from the same source as the one above. This one is quite similiar but is simply marked ADAM and 'THE CROMPTON'. I did an internet search for the maker but was unsuccessful in locating him. This is a size 7 1/8 and in absolutely excellent condition. It wasn't worn much at all! The sweatband on this one is also about 2 inches tall. This one is a slightly smaller size overall. Very nice! $195.00

Here's an old 19th century master Ink bottle that was used to fill up the smaller desk ink bottles. This one is made of clay and is in very good condition. I recently rescued this bottle when it was being used for an ash tray! As you can see from the pic it's a rather large piece being over 9 1/2 inches tall and is about 3 1/2 inches in diameter. The stampings are quite clear and rather deep as you can also see in the pics being made by J. Bourne & Son of Denby Pottery of near Derby and sold by P. & J. Arnold of London. Nice display piece! $45.00

Here's something I don't see everyday but couldn't pass 'em up. These lady sized gauntlets came from a friend of mine out in Southern California. These things are awesome! These guantlets are probably early 20th century but could be earlier. They are a nice quality leather with rose bead work. Some of the beads are no lacking and the gloves do have some repairs to the finger seams and elsewhere but where are you going to find another pair like this! These will go fantastic in an old west or wild west display! $295.00

Here's a real nice stereo-optic card featuring William Jennings Bryan and his wife. This is copyright 1897 by B. L. Lingley. This is a very nice card and was issued during his 1st bid for President against the elected President McKinley. Here is his bio:

William Jennings Bryan (March 19, 1860 – July 26, 1925) was the Democratic Party nominee for President of the United States in 1896, 1900 and 1908, a lawyer, and the 41st United States Secretary of State under President Woodrow Wilson. One of the most popular speakers in American history, he was noted for a deep, commanding voice. Bryan was a devout Presbyterian, a supporter of popular democracy, a critic of banks and railroads, a leader of the silverite movement in the 1890s, a leading figure in the Democratic Party, a peace advocate, a prohibitionist, an opponent of Darwinism, and one of the most prominent leaders of populism in the late 19th - and early 20th century. Because of his faith in the goodness and rightness of the common people, he was called "The Great Commoner." In the intensely fought 1896 and 1900 elections, he was defeated by William McKinley but retained control of the Democratic Party. For presidential candidates, Bryan invented the national stumping tour. In his three presidential bids, he promoted Free Silver in 1896, anti-imperialism in 1900, and trust-busting in 1908, calling on Democrats, in cases where corporations are protected, to abandon states' rights, to fight the trusts and big banks, and embrace populist ideas. President Woodrow Wilson appointed him Secretary of State in 1913, but Wilson's handling of the Lusitania crisis in 1915 caused Bryan to resign in protest. He was a strong supporter of Prohibition in the 1920s, and energetically attacked Darwinism and evolution, most famously at the Scopes Trial in 1925. Five days after winning the case but getting bad press, he died in his sleep.

This is a nice card! $35.00

Here's another stereo-optic card entitled ROCK OF AGES - THE RESCUE. This one is copyrighted 1895 by Littleton View Co. The above phrase ROCK OF AGES - THE RESCUE is on the back of the card in 6 different languages! Nice card! $25.00

This next stereo-optic card tackles the Women's Suffrage Movement or rather is trying to scare men into controlling their wifes! This card is dated 1895. Here's some facts on Women's Sufferage:The term women's suffrage refers to the economic and political reform movement aimed at extending suffrage — the right to vote — to women. The movement's modern origins lie in France in the 18th century. Of currently existing independent countries, New Zealand was the first to give women the right to vote in 1893.[1] Similarly, the colony of South Australia enacted legislation giving women the vote in 1894. Places with similar status which granted women the vote include Wyoming Territory (1869). Other possible contenders for first "country" to grant female suffrage include the Corsican Republic, the Isle of Man (1881), the Pitcairn Islands, Franceville, and Tavolara, but some of these had brief existences as independent states and others were not clearly independent. Australia extended this right in 1901 to some women, and then in 1902 to all non-aboriginal women. A contestant for being the first independent nation to grant the right to vote for women would be Sweden, where some women were in fact allowed to vote during the age of liberty (1718-1771), although this right was far from applying to women in general. Voting rights for women were introduced into international law in 1948 when the UN adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As stated in Article 21 “(1) Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives. (3) The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.” Women’s suffrage is also explicitly stated as a right under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, adopted by the United Nations in 1979.

This is an important card from an important period of Women's Sufferage. This shows a bossy lady (could be my wife!) pointing her bossy finger at her husband who is doing the laundry while 2 small children sit at his feet. I'm sure he's trying to take care of them too! My wife and I worked through this problem. She tells me what to do and I do it. Anyway, it works for her! Nice Quality! $25.00

Here we have 4 cabinet cards from about 1880 showing the railroad at Madison Indiana near the Ohio River. Two of the photos are looking at the J.M. & I. Railroad (don't know what the J.M & I stand for) at Madison Indiana. They each measure about 4 1/2 X 6 1/2 and have descriptions on the back. They are somewhat faded but better than what my pics show. Two pics are from the P.C.C. & St. L. R. R. (something and St. Lawrence Rail Road), $25.00 for all.

Here's a small President McKinley grouping that includes a book entitled MEMORIAL LIFE OF WILLIAM McKINLEY-OUR MARTYRED PRESIDENT and 3 stereo optic cards of the period. The book is in good condition with some spline separation and loads of photos! This book was written after his assassination in 1901 by Col. G.W. Townsend and is a first edition. This book is loaded with tons of photos and engravings of even the Funeral proceedings. 512 pages. No foxing. Also included is stereo optic cards of President McKinley at his desk in the White House copyright 1898 , the Inaugural Parade March 4th, 1897 showing many soldiers in parade formation. and lastly, Mrs. McKinley in the Conversatoryof the Executive Mansion, Washington D.C.copyright 1898. These cards are in excellent condition. Here's the Presidents Bio: WILLIAM MCKINLEY 1897-1901 At the 1896 Republican Convention, in time of depression, the wealthy Cleveland businessman Marcus Alonzo Hanna ensured the nomination of his friend William McKinley as "the advance agent of prosperity." The Democrats, advocating the "free and unlimited coinage of both silver and gold"--which would have mildly inflated the currency--nominated William Jennings Bryan. While Hanna used large contributions from eastern Republicans frightened by Bryan's views on silver, McKinley met delegations on his front porch in Canton, Ohio. He won by the largest majority of popular votes since 1872. Born in Niles, Ohio, in 1843, McKinley briefly attended Allegheny College, and was teaching in a country school when the Civil War broke out. Enlisting as a private in the Union Army, he was mustered out at the end of the war as a brevet major of volunteers. He studied law, opened an office in Canton, Ohio, and married Ida Saxton, daughter of a local banker. At 34, McKinley won a seat in Congress. His attractive personality, exemplary character, and quick intelligence enabled him to rise rapidly. He was appointed to the powerful Ways and Means Committee. Robert M. La Follette, Sr., who served with him, recalled that he generally "represented the newer view," and "on the great new questions .. was generally on the side of the public and against private interests." During his 14 years in the House, he became the leading Republican tariff expert, giving his name to the measure enacted in 1890. The next year he was elected Governor of Ohio, serving two terms. When McKinley became President, the depression of 1893 had almost run its course and with it the extreme agitation over silver. Deferring action on the money question, he called Congress into special session to enact the highest tariff in history. In the friendly atmosphere of the McKinley Administration, industrial combinations developed at an unprecedented pace. Newspapers caricatured McKinley as a little boy led around by "Nursie" Hanna, the representative of the trusts. However, McKinley was not dominated by Hanna; he condemned the trusts as "dangerous conspiracies against the public good." Not prosperity, but foreign policy, dominated McKinley's Administration. Reporting the stalemate between Spanish forces and revolutionaries in Cuba, newspapers screamed that a quarter of the population was dead and the rest suffering acutely. Public indignation brought pressure upon the President for war. Unable to restrain Congress or the American people, McKinley delivered his message of neutral intervention in April 1898. Congress thereupon voted three resolutions tantamount to a declaration of war for the liberation and independence of Cuba. In the 100-day war, the United States destroyed the Spanish fleet outside Santiago harbor in Cuba, seized Manila in the Philippines, and occupied Puerto Rico. "Uncle Joe" Cannon, later Speaker of the House, once said that McKinley kept his ear so close to the ground that it was full of grasshoppers. When McKinley was undecided what to do about Spanish possessions other than Cuba, he toured the country and detected an imperialist sentiment. Thus the United States annexed the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico. In 1900, McKinley again campaigned against Bryan. While Bryan inveighed against imperialism, McKinley quietly stood for "the full dinner pail." His second term, which had begun auspiciously, came to a tragic end in September 1901. He was standing in a receiving line at the Buffalo Pan-American Exposition when a deranged anarchist shot him twice. He died eight days later.

For Everything $95.00

Here's a really early caltrop. Caltrops were small anti-personnel and anti-horse weapons having 4 sharpened points so no matter how they were thrown on the ground 1 point was always up. This one is iron dating to the Revolutionary War or earlier. When sitting flat on the ground it is approx. 2 1/4 inches tall! Ouch! This would inflick great pain to man or beast. It would certainly lame any horse chasing infantry so that the chase could not continue. Outstanding! You can see like caltrops in the Collector's Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution by George Newmann and Frank Kravic. A page from that book is in one of the pics below. $125.00

The next 2 items I found together in Noblesville, IN and I think they may have been brought back by the same soldier, however, the history has been lost.

1st we have a Civil War Era brass 'pinky' ring which was a common item at that time for a man to wear. This one is a kind of thin reddish brass with a scalloped design on each side. This ring was made to engrave something on the top but nothing has been engraved. $25.00

The next item is a Civil War Caltrop which was used by retreating Infantrymen. These pieces were strewn across the road to slop down the advance of the approaching Cavalry. This was an early Booby Trap! No matter how you throw it 3 points always come up. This piece when stepped on will lame the Cavalry Horses. This piece is from an 1" to 1 1/4" across the points. $35.00

Here we have an excellent pair of hugh and heavy Revolutionary War period matched forged iron stirrups. These excellent stirrups came from near the site of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse at Greensboro, North Carolina. They are 5 1/2 inches toall and the hugh massive foot plate is 5 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches. Could be dug but still excellent! You'll be amazed by these! $185.00

This next item is a wonderful pair of Revolutionary War stirrups! Look at the pics. This pair of stirrups are excellent and in great condition. Someone tried to clean them up a little but luckily stopped before doing too much damage. They are in "as found" condition and have not been altered in anyway... the hinges work, and they swing freely. The stirrups measure 6.5 x 6 inches with a 2.5 inch tread. A great piece of history dating from the Revolutionary War period. $225.00

Here is a nice folded paper Patriotic Flag whimsey on 2 sticks. I do believe this is from the 20th century but it could be earlier I suppose. I can find no makers marks anywhere. Nice heavy printed paper. $15.00

I just picked up a bunch of stereo optic cards and some are really good content so I'm putting this one one to start. This is a cabinet card of actual fighting during the Spanish American War in 1899. Read the back of the card to see what I mean. This is outstanding!

Here are a couple of early 20th century Military Photos that was shot in Gettysburg, PA in 1913. Looks like the soldiers are rebuilding earthworks. I can see an encampment on a hill, a train & a stone wall. Look at the closeup. Both photo's are the same and are marked on the back by photographer W. H. TIPTON, Gettysburg, Pa. Also written on pencil on the back of both photographs is 'The X is me' 'Gettysburg, Pa July 18, 1913". Looks like the Corps of Engineers were straightening up things after the reunion held June 29 - July 5, 1913 commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The double camps for union and confederate veterans put up for the 50th Anniversary of Gettysburg were hugh and probably took quite some time to tear down. Here's your chanch to catch a rare glimpse of the end of an outstanding reunion where the average age of the veteran was 73 years old! The only difference in these photos are the conditions of the mats-the photos are just great! Look at the pics! $75.00 each.

This is one of the best ambrotypes that I have ever seen. This is a 3 inch by 3 1/2 inch oval ambrotype of a beautiful 1850's / 1860's Civil War era lady. My pics cannot begin to capture the beauty of this image. This lady has hand coloring to her face and hands. The clarity is outstanding. The image is housed in a velvet frame that is complete with locking push button clasp. The velvet is a dark blue and again my camera did not pick up the beauty of the piece. There is some wear around the edges of the case from handling but it's still beautiful. You can see a little chip of glass on the plate in the upper right hand side that is stable and doesn't interfere with the ambro at all. This image came from Indiana just south of Indianapolis. Outstanding quality! $145.00

Here's an 18th century Medical Canteen that could have been used during the Civil War thru the Indian Wars. Medical Canteens were actually used like hot water bottles for treatment of the injured and sick and not really to drink out of. You could drink out of them but that wasn't their intended purpose. Medical canteens are kidney shaped or curved to fit against the body for the theraputic warmth. This model is an all copper canteen with brass bail at the top. This canteen also has the metal screw top cap that was present during the Civil War. This piece shows many dents and dings having been heavily used. The canteen measures 6 1/4 inches tall by 10 inches long. It's also 1 1/8th inch thick and all of the seams are soldered as they should be. There are no makers marks anywhere on this piece. The canteen has been cleaned in the recent past but left alone should exhibit patina in a reasonable amount of time as copper turns rather quickly. There were many types of these canteens available. Makes for a nice medical display! $145.00

Here are 2 pairs of blue lensed glasses. Both are Civil War era or before. 1 pair has the sliding ear shafts and the other has the folding ear shafts. I was just reading a book entitled 'COWBOY CULTURE - THE LAST FRONTIER OF AMERICAN ANTIQUES' and on page 239 under CHEATERS -GAMBLING it shows a pair of blue lensed glasses with the following 'Cheating glasses with blue lenses. Cards marked with irridenscent ink were visible only when wearing these glasses. Collection: C.W. Lyle, Jr. '. Could these 2 pair be cheaters as well! Who knows- but makes for a good story! $75.00 each pair.

Here's an exceptional pair of civil war / indian war sunglasses. This pair has the straight ear pieces and not the curved ones of latter glasses. The lenses are convex and green in color. No cracks or breaks are present. Dark colored glasses were also used for medical reasons such as measles and sphyllis. I've been told that Doc Holliday of the Gun fighters era wore a pair of glasses similar to these. These glasses are very nice! $65.00

I just picked up this nice set of folding eating utensils from Lexington, Kentucky. This set consists of a folding spoon and a folding fork/corkscrew with hardwood handles. Each piece measures about 7 inches long and is very nice condition with no cracks or breaks to the wood. Many soldiers and officers carried folding utensils with them on the long campaigns. There are no markings on these pieces. Silverplated. Nice! $125.00

Here's something I don't see every day but was excited to have found. This is a pair of 19th century leg irons! I've seen pics just like these in Lord's Civil War Collectibles but they could have been used during the wild west times as well. If they could only talk! They are somewhat rusty but not bad and both locks work. I have a key for them but it looks like a reworked key and maybe not the original. I can't find any markings on them but they most clearly resemble the Tower leg irons from the 1860's thru the 1880's or so. No display is complete without them! About 21 inches long overall.$375.00

Here we have 2 different sizes of Caltrops. Caltrops were used by retreating soldiers by throwning them down in the roadway to slow, lame or cripple the pursuing Cavalry Horses. This first batch of 5 measure about 1" from tip to tip. The second batch of 3 measure about 1 3/8 inches from tip to tip. $35 each for the smaller ones and $45 each for the larger ones. No matter how you throw them 3 points come up! Check out the pics.

Here is a Militia Canteen from Tennessee. The piece measures about 6 1/2 inches across from 1 side to the other. The canteen has a screw top and the top is present. The original red cloth is well worn but most of it is there. The sling is a replacement that closely resembles the original. No dents. Most likely Militia used. Nice collectible! $195.00

Here's an excellent Civil War period folding camp chair that is seen in many Civil War photos of the time. The entire piece is in excellent conditon and the carpet seat and back are like new with captured edges. There seems to have been another piece of material for backing on the seat back but now lacking. Excellent with no breaks to the wood. The back looks to have some lines in it but that's just in the photo. The back material is just like the seat. You won't find better! $275.00

Here's 5 clay marbles of the Revolutionary War period thru the Civil War period. Like examples are found in reference books that cover both wars. Good condition! Non dug. $20.00

Here's a pair of Abraham Lincoln bookends! These bookends were made in the 1960's or 1970's by the PMC - Philadelphia Manufacturing Company. They quite heavy being made of some sort of base metal then Silver Plated. They stand about 5 3/4 inch high. No Civil War library is complete without them! Nice Condition with no breaks. They could use a little polish but I'll let the new owner do that. $45.00

2 Volume set of 'LEW WALLACE AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY' by the great Soldier of the 11th Indiana Zouaves himself. 1st edition 1906. Original owner name stamped inside. These great books have excellent information in them including the Lincoln County War, John Chisum, Billy the Kid, Civil War. Six-Guns.

Wallace was born in Brookville, Indiana, to David Wallace and Esther French Test Wallace. His father was a graduate of the United States Military Academy and served as lieutenant governor and Indiana Governor; his stepmother, Zerelda Gray Sanders Wallace, was a prominent temperance advocate and suffragist. In 1836, at the age of nine, he joined his brother in Crawfordsville, Indiana where he briefly attended Wabash Preparatory School. Afterwards he joined his father in Indianapolis. Wallace was studying law at the start of the Mexican-American War in 1846. He raised a company of militia and was elected a second lieutenant in the 1st Indiana Infantry regiment. He rose to the position of regimental adjutant and the rank of first lieutenant, serving in the army of Zachary Taylor, although he personally did not participate in combat. After hostilities he was mustered out of the volunteer service on June 15, 1847. He was admitted to the bar in 1849. In 1851 he was elected prosecuting attorney of the First Congressional District.

On May 6, 1852, Wallace married Susan Arnold Elston by whom he had one son, Henry Lane Wallace (born February 17, 1853). In 1856, he was elected to the State Senate after moving his residence to Crawfordsville, Indiana.

Here is his Civil War Bio:

Lewis Wallace (1827-1905)

Although he would have much preferred to be remembered as a highly successful military hero, Lew Wallace has been thwarted in this ambition and is best known as an author. Born in Indiana, he had worked as a clerk and early displayed a fascination for Mexico which would affect him in later years. During the Mexican War he served as a second lieutenant in the lst Indiana but saw only minor action. In 1849 he was admitted to the bar in his native state and seven years later entered the state senate. With the outbreak of the Civil War he offered his services, and his assignments included: adjutant general of Indiana (April 1861); colonel, 11th Indiana (April 25, 1861); colonel, 11th Indiana (reorganized August 31, 1861); brigadier general, USV (September 3, 1861); commanding 3rd Division, District of Cairo, Department of the Missouri (February 14-17, 1862); major general, USV (March 21, 1862); commanding 3rd Division, Army of the Tennessee (February 17-June 1862); commanding 8th Corps, Middle Department (March 22, 1864-February 1,1865 and April 19-August 1, 1865); and also commanding the department (March 22, 1864-February 1,1865 and April 19-June 27, 1865). His career got off to a promising start when he routed an inferior Confederate force at Romney, Virginia. Promoted to brigadier general, he was given charge of a newly organized division in the midst of the operations against Fort Donelson and was soon rewarded with a second star. However, that spring his reputation plummeted after the battle of Shiloh. On the first day his division was stationed north of the main army at Crump's Landing, and a series of contradictory orders from Grant forced him to countermarch his command and delayed his arrival on the main battlefield until the fighting was nearly over. He redeemed himself on the second day, but a scapegoat was needed for the near disaster the day before and this was Wallace. Sent home to await further orders, he offered his services to Indiana Governor Oliver P. Morton and, despite his high rank, took temporary command of a regiment during the emergency posed by Kirby Smith's invasion of Kentucky. With Cincinnati threatened, Wallace was placed in charge of a mostly civilian defense force. Through a show of tremendous energy he was able to save the city without a major fight. He was then head of the commission which examined Buell's handling of the invasion and other boards until placed in charge in Maryland in early 1864. There he bought valuable time for the defenders of Washington during Early's drive into the state when he made a stand at Monocacy with an inferior scratch force. At the close of the war he sat on the court-martial which tried the Lincoln conspirators and presided over that which sent Andersonville chief Henry Wirz to the gallows. He then joined a movement to aid the Juarez forces against Maximilian in Mexico. He tried to raise money and troops and even accepted the title of major general from the Juarez group. On November 30, 1865, he resigned from the U.S. service, but his Mexican venture collapsed and he realized little of the money which he had hoped to gain from it. In later years he was governor of the New Mexico Territory and a diplomat to Turkey. As a prolific writer, who often drew upon his own experiences, he is best remembered for Ben Hur.- A Tale of the Cbrist, one of the most popular novels of the nineteenth century. Wallace held a number of important political posts during the 1870s and 1880s. He served as governor of New Mexico Territory from 1878 to 1881, and as U.S. Minister to the Ottoman Empire from 1881 to 1885. As governor, he offered amnesty to many men involved in the Lincoln County War; in the process he met with Billy the Kid. On March 17, 1879, the pair arranged that the Kid would act as an informant and testify against others involved in the Lincoln County War, and, in return, the Kid would be "scot free with a pardon in [his] pocket for all [his] misdeeds". But the Kid returned to his outlaw ways and Governor Wallace withdrew his offer. While serving as governor, Wallace completed the novel that made him famous: Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ (1880). It grew to be the best-selling American novel of the 19th century.[6] The book has never been out of print and has been filmed four times.

Wallace died, likely from cancer, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and is buried there in Oak Hill Cemetery. A marble statue of him dressed in a military uniform by sculptor Andrew O'Connor was placed in the National Statuary Hall Collection by the state of Indiana in 1910 and is currently located in the west side of the National Statuary Hall.

If you are interested in Lew Wallace then these books are for you. Not some made up or glamorized idea of General Lew Wallace but written in his own hand. The books are in great condition with just a little 'mouse' chew that you can see in the pic. Vol. 1 has 502 pages with a 1903 illustration of Lew Wallace. Vol. 2 has 526 pages for a total of 1028 pages of text. The pages are tight and clean with no foxing or water damage. You'd be hard pressed to find better. Very nice! $165.00 for the pair. The books only are for sale not the images you see in this description. Thanks!

Here's something you don't find empty very often. This is an original Civil War era Photo Album with latch. The leather cover is in good condition with a little wear and breakage on the back album cover hinge. The only major thing wrong with the outside is that the front cover is missing one of the little porcelin buttons. The inside spline is separated some in the front but can be easily repaired. There's room for 48 photos back to back in the CDV sized album. The album pages are gilted on the edges. It's a little stiff but probably hasn't been opened for years. Still a fairly good album that would be great for you to place your CDV's in. $65.00

Here is a Civil War era 19th century cloth sewing kit or 'housewife' as commonly known by the soldiers. All hand stitched with binding along the edges. Unfolds to about 9 inches long and 2˝ inches wide. The inside has two pouches for thimbles, etc. and a flap for pins and needles A number of old needles and pins are still stuck inside. Remarkably well preserved for the age of the item. Would look great with some buttons and perfect for a display of personal soldier effects! $125.00

Here's a great little item! This is a small all brass Album that contain 4 different photos. There are photos of a gentleman that I believe I have seen but I can't remember who he is as well as photos of Union General Rosecrans and Union General Tecumseh Sherman. On the reverese of the Sherman photo is a woman that I believe to be Mrs Sherman. All of the photos seem to be CDV type or Gem paper type. The album closed measures about 3/4 inch wide by 7/8 inch tall! Incredibly small! The album has a brass ring at the top which runs through a 1838 4 Pence English Coin! Again, this album is incredibly small and rare to find! $350.00

Here is a nice St. Louis Model 1858 Canteen with sling and cover and tin spout. This variation had the cord tied to the stopper and either around the sling or an upper sling guide. In the past, any oblate spheroid canteen equipped with a tin spout was considered a Confederate imitation of the US M-1858. US Govt. purchase orders surfaced which indicates that these tin spout canteens were made at the St. Louis Arsenal during 1864 & 1865. Numerous specimens of this canteen have been excavated in Federal positions near Petersburg and along the retreat route to Appomattox. The sling is tied in a knot and the canteen has numerous dents on both sides. Heck, don't you want one that has seen action? Still a very nice piece! $375.00

I recently found this medical book in Michigan. This is a small book entitled THE INVALIDS GUIDE by C.M.FITCH and was published in 1857. Look at the pic of the cover page for further information. The book is illustrated as well. 191 pages being hardbound and in very nice condition! RARE! $150.00

This here is something you don't see that often. This is a pair of casemate glasses that was used by gunners in confined spaces when they fired their cannons. The wire mesh eye pieces have green colored glass in them to stave off the bright light from the blast. The original cloth nose bridge is present but the cord that ties around the head is a replacement. Nice to have in a cannon projectile display! $95.00

We have a Elizabeth Ross Flag Banner that measure about 20 inches by 8 feet long. These cost $40 new and it is now in aged condition to look great in the relic room! This is a fraction of the cost of an original piece at $25.00 .

WE'RE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR PIECES LIKE THIS!
and This !!!