Dr. A. B. Beattie's Presentation Sword
The collection of
Paul R. Johnson, M.D., F.A.C.S.
M 1840
Medical Staff sword inscribed to Dr. A. B. Beattie, 49th Illinois Infantry. Dr.
Beattie was commissioned in Illinois and served with his regiment thru late
1862. He saw action and cared for his regiment's wounded at the battle of Ft.
Donelson (where the Colonel was a casualty), the battle of Shiloh/Pittsburg
Landing (where both the Lt. Colonel and Major were casualties), and at Corinth.
It is presumed that he resigned due to illness after Shiloh (late in 1862), but
current research is still underway.
The sword
is an imported European piece without any manufacturer's markings. The style is
very similar to the Tiffany presentation sword (first sword in display-Dr. John
Dwyer) in the hilt eagle and MS/shield motif, as well as the Gunkle sword (10th
sword in display). In addition, the middle scabbard fitting (lowest hangar)
appears nearly identical to Bunce's sword (13th in display).
This sword
is one of two which demonstrate presentation inscription on the SIDE of the
hilt, rather than on the reverse shield or on the scabbard or it's fittings.
Indeed, the other know sword similarly inscribed is also on an European import
sword to another Illinois Surgeon, which raises the very interesting possibility
of similar engraver, sword outfitter, or military goods dealer in a similar
Illinois town or area?
This sword
shows another very rare aspect: only "Medical Staff" is etched on the blade,
rather than the usual 'U.S. Medical Staff'. This sword overall is very dainty
and smaller than the usual Ames or Horstmann specimens and is overall very
similary to the Gunkle and Dwyer swords (# 10 and #1).
