Nearly all of the Smith carbines manufactured were issued to Union cavalry units and saw hard use during the Civil War. This example is listed in an included document as within the range of the carbines issued to the 1st Alabama U.S. Volunteer Cavalry and has the standard markings and features, a "LFR" inspection mark on the left at the breech, and crisp "GP" and "JH" cartouches on the left side of the wrist. The 1st Alabama was formed in October 1862 by Southern Unionists and was selected to serve as Major General William Tecumseh Sherman's escort during his famous 300 mile "March to the Sea" from Atlanta to Savannah in November and December of 1864. Sherman's mission was tactically dangerous as his forces were separated from Union supply and communication lines and operated deep into Confederate territory, but it also paid off and is considered to have significantly contributed to the collapse of the Confederacy. His forces left a behind devastation as they requisitioned supplies by force from civilians and destroyed much of the already underdeveloped infrastructure. Even his proposed mission which was supposed to be more restrained than what actually took place was controversial with Lincoln and Grant, and the damage of his forces remains controversial, especially in the South. Nonetheless, his actions are generally considered to have brought the war to a quicker close and thus reduced overall suffering. Sherman knew all along that his mission would be considered cruel and he sympathized with Southern views before secession, but he had little sympathy for those that sought to tear his beloved country apart. He wrote bluntly in September 1864, "If the people raise a howl against my barbarity and cruelty, I will answer that war is war, and not popularity-seeking."

Excellent overall with 97% plus original blue and casehardened finish, smooth oiled finish on the wood, minimal light scratches and specks of light surface rust on bottom of frame with crisp markings and cartouches. Mechanically excellent.