The Espada Ancha-

[Jim McDougall]

In recent research, traveling over old roads from years ago on these intriguing short swords of the frontiers of New Spain, I was informed of the source for the curious misnomer referring to these.

The term 'espada ancha' in Spanish translates to 'BROAD SWORD', which of course might figuratively apply to some of the wide heavy blades on many of these. However the term more properly applies to the heavier, full size 'broadswords' typically known as 'bilbo's'. Sidney Brinckerhoff ("Spanish Military Weapons in Colonial America 1700-1820", Brinckerhoff & Chamberlain, 1972) apparently once noted that he had apparently applied the term to the short, heavy swords used on the trails for clearing brush etc.

These were actually in the period and regions termed by the locals 'machetes', which is technically better describing what they are.

While these were typically worn by horsemen on the trails in general, the true weapons for any sort of engagement were primarily the lance, the 'broadsword' (typically the bilbo) and occasionally the escopeta or other pistol types.

I am posting a grouping of espada anchas showing the general form but with certain variations, and would appreciate anyone showing other examples, especially if they might lend to regional provenance.

Also posted is the typical military arming broadsword known as the 'bilbo' (a Victorian collectors term, correctly termed 'boca de caballo) which in use as early as 17th c. became known as M1728 and M1768 models by regulation.
While other types of sword were also known, such as crude versions of cup hilt, these were more common. By 1800 military saber hilts also fitted with these long broadsword blades came into use.