April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/12/2023
Classic Western Style pipe tomahawk with wire wrapped haft. Oral history and older display tag that accompanies this piece from the consignor states that this tomahawk was captured from Indians by Lt. Frank Eastman of the 14th U.S. Infantry during the Ute Expedition of 1879-1880 in Colorado and Wyoming. Research of military records confirms a 2nd Lt. Frank F. Eastman did indeed serve with Company E, 14th US Infantry at the time indicated. Eye of the tomahawk is diamond shaped, with a slightly barrel shaped octagonal tall bowl. Forged iron head has a thin large blade surface with a small projection at the base of the blade. Haft is approximately 75% covered by wrapped copper wire, most likely repurposed from telegraph lines. Exposed face of haft exhibits small iron and brass nails that hold the head in place on its gasket. Grip area is bare with an eyelet in front that retains a thin buckskin tie. Mouthpiece is made of a brass bullet case that retains a thin wire rod pipe cleaner. CONDITION: Deep patina overall on haft and wire. Typical frosting and light rust on the iron blade with no deep pitting or cracks. Head is tight to gasket.