US Infantry NCO Sword-This is a model 1840 by the maker C. Roby in West Chelmsford, Mass. Which is just about 40 minutes from our office. These model 1840 swords display a graceful appearance, and this is no different. This has a grip ribbed in an imitation of wire wrapping. The handle is marked with “24”. This has an all-brass cast hilt, with a "double scallop" cross guard, and a "D" hand guard enclosing the knurled hand grip. This hand guard is also marked with “24” and a single “S” which is often seen on NCO swords who are also marked for F.S.S., Frederick S. Strong who was the armory inspector during the period of 1862-1863. The scabbard is black leather with brass fittings. There is one ring missing, but overall, this is in good shape. There is some leather missing to this scabbard, but what is left could be brought back to life should you choose to do so. The obverse of the blade is stamped with “US/1863/F.S.S.” On the reverse of the blade can be seen a circle with the maker’s name of C. Roby W. Chelmsford, MA. This blade is untouched, there are some dark spots throughout. The sword measures 39 inches 99.06cm) overall, with a blade length of 32 inches (81.28cm). This is a good-looking American sword that you certainly wish could tell you some stories.
History: Christopher Roby began sword manufacturing business first by making edged tools. His factory located in Chelmsford, once known as “Scythe Factory Village.” A manufacturing business started by Deacon John Farwell eventually passed to F.T. Sawyer in 1846. Later Sawyer would sell one half of his interest to C. Roby, the firm being known as Roby, Sawyer Company. By 1853 Roby would buy out Sawyer and changed the business to C. Roby & Co. Roby’s first contract with the government was for N.C.O. and M1840 Musician’s swords. In 1863 Roby delivered 9,000 N.C.O. swords; this sword was one of those. Thanks to horsesoldier.com for this information.
The Roby Scythe company became Chelmsford Sword in 1862, and started to provide much needed swords for the war effort. Swords were so hard to get that they were being imported from Germany by Tiffany’s of NYC. Yes, the jewelry company. These swords could be bought at a very high premium, and Roby became the solution for locally produced, more economical edged weapons. This was the working sword of the Union Civil War cavalryman. Many thousands were made by several contractors.
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