Measuring 37 inches overall, with a 31 1/4 inch curved double fuller blade, etched with vinework and patriotic motifs on both sides, "Iron Proof" on the spine, and the Horstmann address on the right. The hilt is fine gilt brass, with sculpted scrollwork filling the space between the branch and knuckle bow, sculpted oak leaves on the pommel, and a wire wrapped sharkskin grip. The scabbard is leather jacketed with gilt brass fittings, with the throat inscribed "New Haven Dec. 23d/1861/Presented to/Lt.Geo. A. Harmount/as a mark of esteem/entertained for him/by his Friends. Included with the sword is an extensive grouping of documents, including a large number of photocopied materials from the National Archives. Born c.1843 in New Haven, Connecticut, Harmount started his military career with the 12th Connecticut Volunteer Infantry Regiment, mustering in on December 3rd, 1861 as a 2nd Lieutenant, and later earning the ranks of 1st Lieutenant and Company Adjutant. During his tenure the Regiment (aka the "Charter Oak Regiment") they would see action at the Battle of Georgia Landing, participate in the destruction of the Confederate semi-ironclad gunboat "Cotton", engage the enemy at Pattersonville and Bisland, and participate in the Siege of Port Hudson. Fought in conjunction with the Siege of Vicksburg, Port Hudson stands as the longest siege in American military history, lasting 48 days, with Union losses around 10,000 from a mix of fatalities, wounds and disease. The Union victory at Port Hudson established complete Northern control of the Mississippi River, cutting off the western Confederacy and connecting occupied New Orleans to points north. Of particular note regarding Lieutenant Harmont is a record of a call for a 1000-man "Forlorn Hope" assault team in June of 1863 to make an aggressive push on the Confederate lines, with promotions and medals promised to the survivors; Harmount was among the volunteers, though the siege ended before they could make their move. He would depart the unit in September of 1863 to accept a Lieutenant Colonel post with the 3rd Engineer Regiment of the Corps d'Afrique, later known as the 97th Regiment U.S. Colored Troops. Formed in and around New Orleans, the Corps d'Afrique were a precursor to the U.S.C.T., performing many of the same duties. The 97th was active in Texas and around the Gulf Coast, building bridges, dams, fortifications and other works, and was in particular active during the Red River Campaign. The unit itself would remain active into 1866, though Harmount would tenure his resignation in April of 1865, due to recurring health issues. His exact civilian employment is unrecorded, though he did settle down and get married, and finally passed on in October of 1892, with "chronic bronchitis" listed as the primary cause.

Good. The very good blade shows a mixed gray patina, with some wear on the etching, scattered spotting and mild handling marks. The brass components show a fine aged patina, with traces of gilt finish, and some dents. The scabbard shows a few light scuffs and cracks.