December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/12/2024
Soon after signing the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln called for regiments of free Black troops to be raised. Among the first was the storied 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, armed and backed by Governor John Andrew. Under the command of Robert Gould Shaw, the 54th Mass headed south from Boston in May 1863, where they were active in South Carolina and Georgia. On July 18th, the 54th led the assault on Fort Wagner, which guarded Charleston Harbor. The troops fought gallantly to no avail, and suffered significant casualties for the cause. Their bravery proved a symbolic victory, solidifying public support and, perhaps more importantly, the support of General Grant in favor of the combat use of the Colored Troops. Approximately 180,000 African-American soldiers would serve through the end of the War. More recently the 54th's heroic actions were memorialized in the blockbuster 1989 film "Glory". This historically important musket is affixed with a large silver presentation plate on the right side of the stock engraved in script "August 27, 1865. / This musket Carried into Fort Wagner / and borne throughout all the Campaigns of the 54th / to Massachusetts on behalf of the reg't to / Governor Andrew / by Bt. Br. Gen. Edw. N. Hallowell. / Colonel". Hallowell was first appointed Lieutenant in the 54th, and was wounded at Fort Wagner. After Colonel Shaw was mortally wounded at the battle, Hallowell took command of the 54th and led them through the remainder of the War, receiving the honorary rank of Brevet Brigadier General, and mustering out August 20th, 1865. He presented this battle-worn musket just a week later to Governor Andrew, who had tirelessly fought to form and support the regiment. An included copy of a September 2, 1865 newspaper clipping describes a review of the 54th marching through Boston before Governor Andrew, Hallowell ending the ceremony with a speech to his troops and bystanders. Although the musket is not mentioned it is very possible it was presented to Andrew during this event. Musket is of M1861 form, currently sporting an "N.J" surcharged barrel with bayonet lug front sight and 3-position rear. Percussion lock is dated vertically at the tail "1863" with federal eagle and "U.S. / Whitney-Ville" markings ahead of the cock, likely an overrun Plymouth Rifle lock. Standard American walnut stock retained by 3 barrel bands and fitted with a plain musket-style buttplate. Butt plate was painted white long ago, now flaking to patina. Ramrod is a relic replacement. CONDITION: Good. Armory bright components were cleaned and have now developed a light brown patina in some areas. Some unusual file marks present around bolster with a tang repair. Forward lock screw also appears to be a replacement. Stock has a nice mellow aged appearance with scattered dings and nicks, as well as a repaired break at the lock. Presentation exhibits a very pleasant dark blue/gray patina with a few dings, remaining legible. Bore displays strong rifling with freckling throughout. Fine mechanics. A tremendously historic Civil War musket memorializing the honorable service of one of America's first Black regiments. A rare opportunity for the advanced collector of Americana.