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D2007-CMD-0027
British Infantry Hanger
D2007-CMD-0027

British Infantry Hanger

Date1750-1760
OriginEngland or Ireland
MediumIron/steel, wood
DimensionsOL: 29 1/4"; Hilt: 6 1/4" Blade: 22 3/4" x 1 1/8"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2006-81
DescriptionInfantry hanger with heart-shaped dished iron counterguard made intergrally with the knucklebow, comma-shaped quillonm and an egg-shaped pommel with high capstan & socketed foot. Turned wooden grip likely a modern replacement, but reasonably well done and of acceptable form for the period. The single edge & slightly curved blade has a narrow fuller running along the spine to within 6 3/4" of the tip, and has a contemporary repair to the blade.
Label TextSwords with iron heart-shaped guards are believed to be amongst the most common types carried by British soldiers serving in America during the French & Indian War. Made in a few styles, an identical example bears markings to the Grenadier Company of the 55th Regiment, which suffered greatly at the British attack on Fort Ticonderoga in July 1758. This pattern also appears on the hips of soldiers in period artwork.