Revolutionary War American Spontoon, found at Fort Ticonderoga, NY

This is another rare item out of an early Revolutionary War collection; it is an excavated American Spontoon. It is hand-forged with an overall measurement of 12”, and the blade measuring 7” x 1 ¾”. It would have taken a long wooden pole with a 1” diameter to fit the socket. It was recovered many years ago at Fort Ticonderoga, NY.

A Revolutionary War spontoon was a polearm, similar to a pike, used primarily by officers and sergeants as a badge of rank and signaling tool, but also as a practical weapon for defense against cavalry or infantry thrusts.

It was a distinctive item distinguishing leaders in the field when muskets were scarce for officers. While British forces largely abandoned them before the war, American officers continued using them as a symbol of authority and to direct troops, especially early in the conflict.

Fort Ticonderoga is positioned on Lake Champlain in northeastern New York. Its strategic location provided crucial access to both Canada and the Hudson River Valley during the French and Indian War. On May 10, 1775, Benedict Arnold joined Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys of Vermont in a surprise dawn attack on the fort. They captured the British garrison, marking the first American victory of the Revolutionary War.

This piece remains in excellent condition, showing no signs of flaking or chipping—an indication of its early recovery – it was lightly coated for preservation.  In “Swords & Blades of the American Revolution” by George Neumann, he shows examples of these weapons (see pictures).

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.