A gold mounted sword presented to a lieutenant following the War of 1812 has seen the highest bids at Heritage Auctions' December 7 Civil War and Militaria Signature Auction in Dallas.
 The Battle of Fort Stephenson was one of the most decisive defensive actions of the War of 1812 |
Relating to the defence of Fort Stephenson, one of the most remarkable defensive actions of the war, the sword sold for $50,000. It was presented to Lieutenant Benjamin Johnson, one of five officers commended for their service.
The War of 1812 was a conflict between the recently-established USA and Great Britain and Britain's Native American allies, which was a result of lingering tensions following the war of independence such as boundary and trade disputes.
Fort Stephenson in Ohio was faced with a British attack of 1,000 soldiers and Native Americans, who threatened to massacre the 160 men who were defending it. However, the defiant 21-year-old Kentuckian Major George Groghan responded:
"When the fort shall be taken there will no one left to massacre. It will not be given up while a man is able to resist."
Waiting until the British attack was in firing range, Groghan's men used the fort to their advantage and the British retreated with 120 dead and wounded, while the US troops had only one death.
 The kepi was once grey, but Confederate dyes were poor and it may have turned brown even while still in use |
Also featuring in the auction was a civil war-era Confederate man's kepi hat, which made $15,625. Of "unquestioned authenticity", the kepi was offered with a letter of authenticity from Confederate uniform expert Les Jensen.
Paul Fraser Collectibles offers a superb selection of militaria for sale, with items from some of the world's greatest military leaders.
