This sword is of the non-regulation militia officer's sword pattern, of which similar examples are described and pictured on p. 130-131 of "American Swords From the Philip Medicus Collection" by Flayderman. The gilded brass scabbard is inscribed "Presented to Lieut. Thomas S. Kunkle. By the/Citizens of New Albany. for heroic devotion/to the flag of his country. during the Mexican War." In 1844 an independent volunteer company of infantry was formed in New Albany, Indiana under the command of Captain William Sanderson. The company was nicknamed "The Spencer Greys" after Captain Spencer, a brave Indiana soldier killed at the Battle of Tippecanoe and their grey uniforms. By all accounts the company was well-equipped and well-drilled and when the Mexican-American War broke out in April 1846, The Spencer Greys quickly volunteered and three months later were sworn into the regular army. Just before being mustered in however they had elected officers, including Lieutenant Kunkle. The company was then attached to the 2nd Indiana Volunteer Infantry Regiment which was transported from New Albany to New Orleans and then on to Brazos Santiago for the invasion of Mexico as part of General Zachary Taylor's "occupation army". The 2nd Indiana, The Spencer Greys among them, first tasted battle at Buena Vista where they faced an attack by 7,000 Mexicans and withstood withering fire for nearly a half hour, expending most of their ammunition before retreating to the main battle line. The regiment rallied and helped to form the famous "V" formation along with Jefferson Davis' Mississippi Rifles to repel an attack by Mexican lancers. The sword itself is approximately 37 inches overall and of the typical militia officer's pattern as previously stated, with both sides of the blade etched with floral motifs, the maker's mark etched on the left side. The cross guard is of gilt brass with floral motifs and acorn finials, dual chain knuckle guard, and a "Roman helmet" pommel. The grip is of carved bone. The scabbard is of gilt solid brass with the inscription, as previously stated, between the hanging rings. Includes a porcelain plaque marked "T. S. KUNKLE".