AMERICAN SECRET SOCIETY SWORD

Ancient Order of United Workmen, organized immediately after the Civil War to provide security and death benefits to workmen, originally, on the railroads. As with all such societies of the period, membership was restricted and tenets regarding moral conduct and intoxicants were incorporated in the bylaws. The sword is of excellent quality with pierced cross guard decorated with AOUW. The ivory grip shows age and checks. The eagle on helmet pommel retains most of original gold surface. The 28 ¼” blade is marked with retailer’s name, J W VICKERS BUFFALO NY at the forte and decorated with foliage AOUW and owner’s name. The brass fitted iron scabbard has a smooth brown patina.