AMERICAN SECRET SOCIETY SWORD

Masonic, second half of the 19^th century. Brass hilt with “bow-tie” form guard, flattened olive form pommel, and wire wrapped leather covered grip. 28 1/8” d.e. blade. The forte is decorated in foliage and the maker’s name Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Co. New York NY in a panel. That maker was founded in 1849 and active throughout the century. This sword dates to the period of persecution of Masons and is made to be disassembled for clandestine carriage, sometimes concealed in a hollow walking stick, to Masonic functions. Anti-Freemasonry swept the country in the 1830s-50’s including the establishment of the Anti-Masonic Party which ran presidential candidates in two elections.