Brass Sword/Bowie Guard, found at Ft. Fisher, NC

This is another interesting piece being offered, it is the remains of a brass guard, either for a sword or bowie knife, measuring 3” x 2”. It is similar to the shape of an NCO guard, but smaller, that’s why I think it might also be from a larger bowie knife. This guard was recovered at Fort Fisher, NC on the Cape Fear side towards Wilmington (see map).

After being informed about the large Union army heading toward Wilmington, General Lee ordered Major General Robert Hoke's Division to Fort Fisher. Also, Hoke took command of all Confederate forces in the Wilmington area.

The Union attack started on December 24, 1864, with a naval bombardment. The firepower of Fort Fisher was temporarily silenced because some of its gun positions exploded. This allowed the Navy to land Union infantry. The landing force was intercepted by the arrival of Hoke's troops. The Union attack was effectively thwarted, and on December 27 Benjamin Butler ordered the withdrawal of his 1,000 soldiers who were still on the beach. This was in defiance of Grant's orders, which were to besiege the fort if the assault failed. Because Butler disobeyed his orders, he was relieved of command by Grant.

This is a nice solid piece, one that isn’t often dug, It comes in the glass top display case pictured.