Mystery Sword Guard - A short story

Jim McDougall · 3rd June 2006, 04:54 AM

Hi Sabertasche,
Yes, these were definitely made here in the regions of New Spain in the early years of the 19th century. The one I have was apparantly from New Orleans about that time, and as you have noted, was associated with Mexico achieving independance from Spain. The history of both Spain, and Mexico are fascinating and have always been one of my passions. I grew up in Southern California and truly loved the cultural presence of both Spain and Mexico that remains the mainstay of California's own cultural mix.

Many years ago, long before I was aware of the history of Spanish colonial swords, I had one of these which had been identified as Confederate. Since that was questionable and I had no idea what it was, I traded it off

That and the loss of a beautiful espada ancha have haunted me to this very day.

These sabres remained in service for some time after Mexico's independance, and some found thier way even into use by the militia forces that were known as 'rurales'. These 'police' troops were used as enforcement factions during the 1860's-70's and later, creating thier own uniforms and using gathered equipment, including many old swords.

Even though only a hilt, it's one with lot's of history, and well worth researching further.
All the best,
Jim

3rd June 2006, 04:54 AM	#8
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,282	Hi Sabertasche, Yes, these were definitely made here in the regions of New Spain in the early years of the 19th century. The one I have was apparantly from New Orleans about that time, and as you have noted, was associated with Mexico achieving independance from Spain. The history of both Spain, and Mexico are fascinating and have always been one of my passions. I grew up in Southern California and truly loved the cultural presence of both Spain and Mexico that remains the mainstay of California's own cultural mix. Many years ago, long before I was aware of the history of Spanish colonial swords, I had one of these which had been identified as Confederate. Since that was questionable and I had no idea what it was, I traded it off That and the loss of a beautiful espada ancha have haunted me to this very day. These sabres remained in service for some time after Mexico's independance, and some found thier way even into use by the militia forces that were known as 'rurales'. These 'police' troops were used as enforcement factions during the 1860's-70's and later, creating thier own uniforms and using gathered equipment, including many old swords. Even though only a hilt, it's one with lot's of history, and well worth researching further. All the best, Jim