Military Officer - January 2006 - (Page 56)

toeter” (Bear Slayer). It is a child’s piece given to him by his uncle. Schulz’s collection has grown to include a Hitler Youth Knife, several German army World War II bayonets, and a couple of 19th century Prussian cavalry sabers, to name a few. He says, “Some might consider this a small collection, but I love it, and it has been a good base for adding [to] when I see something that I want at the right price. They are my pieces of history.” A collector of Confederate memorabilia from the rural south, a West Coast German militaria collector, and a young woman fascinated by hooker daggers — the world of edged weapons spans generations, geography, and gender. Arguably, it is one of the most alluring areas of weapon collection. Edged weapons date to the end of the Stone Age. In fact, bronze weapons might have predated stone, as stone weapons simply were not practical. Early examples have been found in Egypt and Scandinavia. Their popularity rose during the Bronze Age and quickly took on what one might consider their modern appearance. A dagger from 1500 BC looks much like those fashioned in 1500 AD. Because edged weapons have been around for so long and span such a wide range of historic periods and events, the options for collecting them are seemingly endless. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, there is probably an edged weapon to meet your collecting goals or to satisfy that gotta-have-one desire. tions. For example, American naval presentation swords of the 19th century or World War II ﬁghting knives give a collection a focus. Successful collecting Bob Cammaroto, co-owner of the Web-based Excelsior Brigade, a company dealing in Civil War memorabilia, notes that collectors normally develop some theme to their collec- Historic symbols Edged weapons are historical works of art — lethal objects of beauty with a story to tell. More than just a weapon, edged weapons have long been symbols of honor, courage, and authority. King Arthur’s legendary sword, Excalibur, was the symbol of his kingship, while its scabbard protected the bearer from harm. The samurai swords of Japan were revered and considered the very soul of the samurai. Even today, ofﬁcers and enlisted members of the military services possess uniform swords. 56 MILITARY OFFICER JANUARY 2006 Light Cavalry Saber: Andrew Jackson carried this sword and scabbard while commanding during the Creek War (1813-1814). Light cavalry sabers had an exaggerated curve and were used for slashing. The typical cavalry saber had a straighter blade and was used for thrusting. Jackson’s weapon is now at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, Washington, D.C. It is made of forged steel with a metal scabbard.

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Contents Features Departments From the Editor Chairman's Page Board of Directors Nominations Your Views MOAA Directory Rapid Fire Washington Scene Member Books Financial Forum Ask the Doctor Chapter Activities Cover Story: On the Edge Storm Stories Our Brilliant, Bloody Future eXtreme Seniors Pages of History Information Exchange MOAA Scholarship Donors Advertising Index MOAA Calendar Sounding Taps MOAA Member Services Encore

Military Officer - January 2006

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