hilts

[bgent]

is there a company (must be) where i can purchase a medical hilt for my sword? Looked and found none
seems my new G/f wants to get into this hobby and be a prom queen LOl at some civil war gala ball so im gonna need a sword to complete my attire-- new runs about 300. Rather just replace the hilt on my old CG officers sword. Tried to google it but no avail

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

I rather doubt there is anyone marketing hilts by themselves, as the work that it would entail would make buying a new one much easier. Medical officer swords are completely different animals from other swords such as the Field and Staff or the Foot Officer's sword, so changing out the hilt wouldn't even help anyway. I've seen at least two photographs of CW Federal surgeons (one captain and one major) with Field and Staff swords and not Medical Officer swords (both were studio CDV's), so that may not be out of the realm of possibility if you don't want to plunk down the big bucks for a new one. By the way, at a proper Civil War ball, officers were unarmed anyway, wearing sashes without belts, swords, or pistols.

[bgent]

ah w/o swords ah saved me money thanks

[Marylander in grey]

Sir,
You will find the sword a peice of equipment that becomes cumbersome. I use a feild officers sword presented to me that belonged to comrade who past this life in battle.
I wear it only on the rarest occasions, ie: funerals, weddings, and the occassional Ladies Social where Officersare requested as escorts.
As for formal Dances and Grand Balls I recommend your purchase a sash and a proper belt for your rank. Dispence with your boots or atleast wear them under your trousers. White cotton gloves would be a must and reading on some 19th century ediquate would not be of a diservice.
As for swords if portraying a Federal Officer any Federal pattern will do. If Confederate then anything goes except the 1860 and later Federal swords. I suggest you look at Dr. Dammann's Civil War Medical Instruments and Equipment Volumes I, II, & III.
Good Day,
Christian Fisher
Surgeon CMF

[bgent]

gloves even today, are a must it;s not only uniform today but proper manor

[Marylander in grey]

Sir,
I would recommend you continue in your research. As an Officer reqardless of home area you would be considered a Genteel if not a gentle man. Even from a backwoods area.
Your fellow Officers would not stand for uncivil behavior. They have reputations to up hold, and Honor is everything.
As a Medical man you most certainly would have attended a formal school, although not all did. At this time you would have needed some fair off family to pay for your studies, so I am sure your social gracess would be impecable.
I would suggest if you are going to portray the part, there is more to being a Physician than the medicine. Research is the key, and continue to ask questions.
IRYMHOS,
chris Fisher
Surgeon CMF

[bgent]

thanks i will. I like this forum group as well as all i have met in this hobby

I did notice even in school the social graces out did the actuall medical study