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  1. SO EXCITING!!!  It is once again time for our big Middle Tennessee Civil War Show and Sale.  It is THIS WEEKEND, December 2 - 3, and is held at the Williamson County Agricultural Center that is just south of Franklin, Tennessee, off I-65 at the Goose Creek exit.  There will be some of the finest Civil War artifacts in existence there for sale and on display.  Just some of the hundreds of dealers and collectors that you will see there include Peggy M. Melton, Rafael Eledge, Tim Prince, Mike Kent, Larry Hicklen, John Sexton, Scott Riddle, Mickey Kiser, Brian Akins, Maurice Small, Wes Small, Meigs & Carla Brainard, Jim Scarr, Brendan Synnamon, Charles Williams, Cliff Sophia, Glenn J Dutton, Nick Periut, William D. Gorges, Mike Parker, John Walsh, Butch Holcombe, Anita Cook Holcombe, Ronnie Townes, Jeff Jones, JT Leathers, Steve Strickland, Ken Hamilton, Allen Wandling, AllenandBecky Gaskins, Allen Phillips, Howard Alligood, Bruce Hohler, Marc Ramsey, and hundreds more.  If you have family artifacts that you would like information on, be sure to bring them as there will be experts on about every facet of Civil War collecting in attendance.

  2. Soon to be married 73 years - Dad is 92 and Mom is 91.  The secret to such longevity begins with a love for life and love for each other as well as dogged perseverance in the face of every challenge life brings.  Instead of "growing old gracefully", they are fighting it each step of the way!

  3. It was a pleasure having my old buddy, Paul Burkey, in for the first time in many years.  We had lots of fun catching up and looking at relics.  The years do get by quickly!!

  4. Exactly 50 years ago this year, I began mailing out my first "mail order" Civil War relic catalogues.  The year was 1973, and the catalogues largely consisted of relics that I had personally recovered, or items my relic hunting buddies found and sold me.  An early local Civil War mail order dealer - Mr. John Heflin - helped me get going, and sold me large groupings of Civil War letters that I poured over, and sold them "one at a time" to those interested in specific content and units.  In ways that seems centuries ago, and in other ways it seems like just yesterday.  In 1976 we bought the Relic Shop, and had it open by 1977, and from then to now has literally been a blurr.  Here I sit - right where it all started 50 years ago, and I'm still writing descriptions of cool Civil War Relics  !!!!  Back in 1976 my Dad came over and helped me remodel the old 1920s grocery store into a Civil War Relic Store.  He came and helped me even though he had grave reservations about me giving up my chemistry job with Textron to "sell Civil War bullets" !!!  It has worked out OK though !!!!

  5. DID YOU KNOW !!!  THERE IS A STRUCTURE IN OUTTER SPACE CALLED "THE GREAT WALL", AND IT IS COMPOSED OF "TONS OF GALAXIES",  AND IS BELIEVED TO BE OVER "500 MILLION" LIGHT YEARS ACROSS.  IT IS "SO BIG" THAT IT TAKES "LIGHT" (YES - LIGHT) OVER A BILLION YEARS TO GET ACROSS !!!!  (AND LIGHT IS BOOKING ALONG AT 186,000 MILES PER SECOND "YES - THAT IS PER SECOND !!!")  I'M GUESSING THAT HEAVEN LIKELY LIES ON THE BACK SIDE OF THE GREAT WALL !!!  JUST SOMETHING INTERESTING TO THINK ABOUT !!!

  6. DID YOU KNOW !!!  GEORGE WASHINGTON WAS A TRUE "REDHEAD" --- BUT LUCILLE BALL WAS NOT !!!!!

  7. DID YOU KNOW -- The Australian Box Jellyfish is deadly poisonous, has 24 eyes, and "NO BRAIN"   I AM PRETTY SURE THAT IN MY YOUTH I DATED AN AUSTRALIAN BOX JELLYFISH !!!!

  8. GET THIS !!!  AN OSTRICH HAS EYES THE SIZE OF A BILLIARD BALL, AND CAN SEE A NORMAL SIZE DOG AT UP TO "2 MILES" !!!!  THEIR INCREDIBLE SIGHT IS WHAT KEEPS THEM ALIVE IN THE WILD !!!!!

  9. TRUE STORY !!!  I JUST GOT AN EMAIL THAT SAID "HAVE YOU EVER USED ANY OF THESE OBSOLETE DEVICES" AND SURE ENOUGH - NUMBER ONE WAS MY "CURRENT" SHOP DIAL UP TELEPHONE THAT I "STILL" RIGHT NOW USE TODAY (EVER SINCE I FIRST OPENED THE SHOP IN 1977) !!!!  A WHILE BACK A YOUNG LADY HAD CAR TROUBLE IN FRONT OF THE SHOP AND SHE HAD FORGOTTEN HER CELL PHONE.  SHE CAME IN AND ASKED TO USE THE PHONE, AND I TURNED THE PHONE TO HER, AND HER EYES GOT BIG, AND SHE SAID "HOW ON EARTH DO YOU DO THAT" !!!  WHEN HER MOM ANSWERED THE PHONE, SHE TOLD HER MOM ABOUT THE "PHONE" BEFORE SHE TOLD HER ABOUT HER CAR TROUBLE !!!

  10. After over 50 years of relic hunting, this display case contains some of my favorite finds.  I have been fortunate to recover 69 Confederate buckles over that 50-year time span.  This case contains one of the nicest Western Theater CS Round Corner Sardine type plates that you could hope to see.  It has all three hooks intact.  Next is a "coin type" CS Tongue & Wreath buckle and top row to the right is a really nice Breckenridge style CS oval.  In the center on the left is a cast-brass Army of Tennessee "Round Corner CS", and on the right in the center row is a beautiful, thick, Atlanta Arsenal CSA rectangle.  On the bottom row left is a cast pewter, Noble Brothers CSA rectangle, and center bottom row is a super nice CS Rope Border with all three hooks intact.  And, on the bottom right is an Alabama Map on Tree oval.  There are some really sweet buttons in this case as well.  You can only imagine the relic hunting memories this case holds.

  11. Our buddy, Ralph Abbruzzese, is visiting us for a few days, and he brought along some super nice Civil War artifacts.  The Ohio State Seal breast plate is one of the most beautiful plates of the Civil War Era, and this one is top notch.  You can't help but enjoy a case of artifacts of this quality!!

  12. This beautiful case of excavated buckles and buttons belongs to Mike Hunt and daughter Beth.  This case of artifacts represents some of the nicest finds from 30 plus years walking and relic hunting.  We have been friends since Beth was tiny!!

  13. Our colors this year seem to be running a couple of weeks behind, but they are in full splendor now.  Too bad they only last for a few days and then cold weather follows.  On the bright side, goodbye ticks and snakes until next year!!!

  14. WIFE TO HUSBAND - "I THINK THAT I AM GOING TO DONATE SOME OF MY CLOTHES TO THE POOR STARVING STREET PEOPLE.  HUSBAND TO WIFE -- "AND YOU THINK YOUR CLOTHES WILL FIT THE POOR STARVING STREET PEOPLE".  HUSBAND HOPES TO BE OUT OF THE HOSPITAL IN A FEW DAYS !!!!

  15. SCIENTISTS ESTIMATE THAT IT IS ABOUT 6,200 MILES TO THE VERY EDGE OF EARTH'S GRAVITATIONAL IMPACT ON OBJECTS !!!  JUST THINK --- IN A LITTLE OVER A WEEK WE COULD DRIVE TO "OUTER SPACE" !!!

  16. DID YOU KNOW !!  "LAND BOUNDARY WISE" - The "City" of JUNEAU, ALASKA IS MUCH "BIGGER" THAN THE ENTIRE "STATE" OF DELAWARE !!!!  THE "CITY" OF JUNEAU CONTAINS 3,255 SQ. MILES - WHILE THE "STATE OF DELAWARE" CONTAINS JUST 1,982 SQ. MILES !!!!  HOWEVER -- JUNEAU HAS 33,193 people, AND DELAWARE HAS "OVER" ONE MILLION !!!!  I SUSPECT THAT "ONE" IS "A BIT" MORE CROWDED BECAUSE THE OTHER IS "SLIGHTLY" COLDER - BRRRR !!!!!

  17. DID YOU KNOW -- THE "FLATEST STATE" IN THE US "IS NOT" KANSAS, OR NORTH DAKOTA, BUT RATHER "FLORIDA" -- WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT IT !!!

  18. ANOTHER DID YOU KNOW -- PEREGRINE FALCONS CAN REACH DIVE SPEEDS OF OVER 200 MILES PER HOUR !!!!

  19. DID YOU KNOW -- MOST SCIENTISTS BELIEVE THAT "GOOD OLE PLANET EARTH" IS SOMEWHERE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF 5 "BILLION" YEARS OLD !!!!

  20. Here is an excellent display of Confederate Central Government plates from the collection of Ronnie Webb, a relic-hunting buddy since we were ten years old.  You won't find a prettier display case of artifacts than this one!!!  (As a result of this picture my buddy, Ronnie, is no longer the owner of this beautiful collection !!!!  (But, he now owns a whale of a nice antique "NOVA SS" !!!!!!  We do keep life interesting around here !!!)

  21. A new Civil War collector is born.  Matthew Tucker just received his first Civil War Cavalry saber.  It is a Model 1840 "Old Wristbreaker" heavy Cavalry saber, and he is now officially "one of us", a CIVIL WAR COLLECTOR!!!  CONGRATULATIONS MATTHEW!

  22. Here is an absolutely incredible collection of New Orleans patterned, round loop, Confederate local, two-piece tongue and wreath sword belt buckles.  This collection belongs to Wayne Bryan and features the three classic style round loop buckles being 1) Die Struck Star on disc concentric ring wreath, 2) Die Struck "CS" on disc with concentric ring wreath, and 3) Die Struck Louisiana Pelican disc with concentric ring wreath.  And, added to these basic types are assorted, very rare, solid cast brass variants.  This is no doubt the most complete grouping of the assorted, super rare buckles with the rounded belt loop there is around.  I think you guys will enjoy seeing this grouping as much as I did.  Wayne has for a good many years pursued these type plates and putting this display together, and it is certainly a display anyone would be proud of.  Congratulations to Wayne on methodically running down all these super hard to get plates.

  23. We have just drawn our winner for the 9th Youth Civil War Relic Display.  Our winner is BRIELLE PREBECK of Arlington, Virginia.  Brielle attended Nottingham Elementary School in Arlington at the time of her contest entry.  We are excited to encourage interest in the Civil War Era among young people like Brielle.  Congratulations Brielle!!!

  24. It is time for our first Youth Civil War artifact Give-Away Display of 2023 - "OUR 9TH CONTEST"- and our winner is "BRIELLE PREBECK" !!! This is a beautiful white oak, custom display case with a colorful $5 Civil War Era note in the center, portions of a Spencer and a Burnside cartridge and seven other projectiles, a Confederate "I" (Infantry) uniform button, three Federal Eagle buttons, a brass Cavalry spur part, a portion of a US cartridge box plate, a Kepi chin strap buckle, and numerous other genuine Civil War artifacts including a soldier's pipe bowl.  There are a total of 28 artifacts in a custom-made oak frame.  We plan to have the drawing for this display on June 1, 2023.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Kenny Brown - Jeff and Theresa Ruth - Gerard Simoneaux - Gary Strobel - Jeff Anderson - Lael Nelson - Ken Fleming, and Justin Simpson.  We sincerely thank you !!!  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  25. HAVE YOU NOTICED - That almost everything works better if once in a while you just unplug it and let it sit for a little while, and this includes us !!!

  26. A couple of days ago, we got a visit from someone very special to us.  Lorenzo Grover-Rizzo and his twin brother Iniko apprenticed in the relic shop here for several years.  Lorenzo took a deep interest in Civil War history and military in general.  After reaching 18, Lorenzo joined the military, and to this point is really enjoying the experience.  He was recently home for a few days on Christmas leave and came by to visit.  What a treat it was to get to see Lorenzo and a great opportunity to let him know how proud of him we are.  Salute!!  Lorenzo's twin brother, Iniko, has been on a mission in Georgia (country, not state) and has learned it's language fluently.  We have not seen him recently, but hopefully in the near future, he can return to share his experiences as well.

  27. It is with saddest heart that I pass along the information that lifelong friend and Civil War Relic Icon, Charlie Harris, passed away this morning.  Charlie has been a dedicated student, collector, and author of the American Civil War for almost his entire life.  I first met Charlie 50 years ago when I arrived at Chattanooga, Tennessee, as an algebra teacher and baseball coach at Ringgold Georgia High School.  In all these years, I don't think that I have ever met a more totally dedicated person to Civil War Relic hunting, collecting, and documenting.  Charlie has authored several Civil War reference books including Civil War Relics of the Western Campaigns, and a follow-up book done with Butch Holcombe, Civil War Relics of the Western Campaigns & Beyond 1861 - 1865, which is literally "just being released", and you can see Charlie still signing books until the very end.  The passing of Charlie Harris is going to mean a huge loss of Civil War collecting and identification knowledge.  It has been my privilege to be friends with Charlie and Teresa for all these years.  Rest in Peace in the shade of the trees on the other side.  Goodbye my friend.  On the "Homepage" of this website you will see "my picture" on the cover of a 1987 - FALL "TREASURE FOUND" magazine.  Charlie was the author of the article inside that went with that cover picture.  Amazingly, NOW -- 35 years later, and I still look just the same -- NOT --NOT -- NOT !!!!!

  28. This past weekend (several months ago now !!) -12-3&4-2022, was our annual Civil War Show at Franklin, Tennessee.  Much to my surprise, I received a "Lifetime Achievement" award.  I was pretty much speechless as this award comes from my fellow collectors and dealers.  I truly love what I do and am privileged to get to make a living all the while honoring my heritage.  Love of ones Southern Heritage is taking a beating these days, but as long as I'm alive, I, as well as all of you, will be proud of both our Southern and Northern Civil War Heritage.  I am very proud of my award.

  29. It is throw-back relic time again.  About 40 years ago, we recovered these two buckles from the camp of the 1st Alabama Cavalry that was destroyed in March of 1863 by General David Stanley’s Federal Cavalry out of Murfreesboro, TN.  The 1st Alabama Cavalry CSA was camped near Midland, Tennessee, and in March of 1863, General David Stanley’s Federal Cavalry struck the Confederate Cavalry camp at the break of dawn.  If you’d like to read about this event, you can find it in Volume 23, Part 1 of the Official Records under the heading, “Expedition to Middleton, Tennessee, March 1863”.  The Federal Cavalry surprised and overran the Confederate Cavalry camp and captured or destroyed most of the contents.  These are two of the nearly 20 Confederate buckles that our group found at this site.  I recovered the Alabama “Map on Tree” State Seal buckle, and one of my early hunting buddies found the large oval “AVC”.  In addition to these buckles, we recovered several “egg-shaped” CS oval waist belt plates, several solid-cast Army of Tennessee CS round-corner buckles, one rectangular pewter CSA, and several frame-style buckles.  Those are some WONDERFUL relic hunting memories.

  30. It is time to congratulate our 8th Youth Relic Display winner.  The winner of this display is Delaney Hickox of Arlington, Virginia.  We hope this Civil War artifact display encourages Delaney's interest in heritage and history.  This is an especially nice display including an original, excavated Federal breast plate, an original Confederate $20 note, a nice excavated North Carolina Confederate uniform button, and numerous other genuine Civil War artifacts.  This is a display that even a seasoned adult Civil War collector would be excited to receive.  The collection would have a retail value of somewhere in the neighborhood of $400.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  We will draw the winner on August 1, 2022, and best of luck to everyone.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Kenny Brown - Jeff and Theresa Ruth - Gerard Simoneaux - Gary Strobel - Jeff Anderson - Lael Nelson - Ken Fleming, and Justin Simpson.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  31. DID YOU KNOW - "TO THIS DAY, ROBERT E. LEE YET REMAINS THE ONLY MAN TO GRADUATE FROM WEST POINT MILITARY ACADEMY WITHOUT ONE SINGLE DEMERIT."

  32. Here is a picture sent to us by our buddy, Bob Ward, taken 52 years ago here at the Cemetery at the Battle of Stones River.  The Boy Scouts are still active on Memorial Day here at the Battlefield.  We have taken a current picture in basically the same location as it appears today.  The stone walls around the cemetery remain visible in both images.  We believe this to be especially meaningful now with Memorial Day coming up.  Our thanks to Bob Ward for the photograph.  The last picture is "Decoration Day" in Columbus, Mississippi, many many years ago.

  33. This is a very special "Throwback" relic digging memory.  This was my very first cast brass rectangular "CSA" to recover, and it was a thick, Atlanta style.  I dug this buckle exactly 50 years ago this year.  I dug the buckle on private property literally about 20 steps from Columbia Pike along the route that the Army of Tennessee charged over on November 30, 1864, at the famous Battle of Franklin, Tennessee.  This buckle has never even been under a water faucet and to this day, 50 years later, I could go back to within one foot of the dig hole !!!  What an exciting day !!!

  34. About 40 years ago, my hunting buddy, Claiborne Lytle, and myself were able to find the line of Confederate sharp shooters along the Brentwood hills at the 2nd day Battle of Nashville fighting.  Over a period of a couple of years, I was able to recover 136 dropped Whitworth bullets, and Claiborne recovered a similar number.  There was a point in time that I could spell out "Whitworth Rifle" with dropped Whitworth bullets.  During that era, I had two little girls at home as well as house and shop payment - insurance payment - and lots of other payments.  Every so often "lean months" came along, and I would need to sell a few Whitworth bullets to make that month's payments.  I don't have 136 Whitworths anymore, but I do still have a few and some very exciting memories.  I had one "12 Whitworth" day where they were all dropped in close proximity to each other.  Both Claiborne and myself always wondered why there were over 200 Whitworths lying on the ground rather than fired at the Yankees??  The area now has million dollar homes and electronic gates.

  35. Throw-Back DIGGING Time !!!!  I dug this beauty 42 years ago almost to the day !!!  They sure don't come out of the ground looking like this anymore !!!  I almost needed sunglasses !!!

  36. Here is another "throw-back" relic.  I recovered this WESTERN THEATER type CS "sardine style" waist belt plate at a Confederate hospital site on private property here at Stones River over 40 years ago.  It is absolutely perfect and has all three original hooks remaining intact.  This jewel will rank VERY high on being one of my "Lifetime Best Finds", and was beyond exciting to recover !!!

  37. Here is another "throw-back relic digging" memory.  Back in the fall of 1975, (47 years ago) my buddy Bob Ward and his hunting partner Wayne Read hit this "battlefield clean-up" glory hole.  This was here at Stones River and, at the time, was in a private property rock glade thicket.  The site is unfortunately now under a motorcycle dealership.  This find included seven Union plates, four musket barrels, four bayonets, two canteens, one smashed brass bugle, thirteen artillery shells, and a boatload of bullets.  Finds like this are memories worth their weight in gold !!!  (Second picture is current.)

  38. These are some fun memories from 35 years ago of one GREAT day digging at a newly found "Polk's Corp" Army Of Tennessee 1862 - 1863 winter camp located along the Duck River near Shelbyville, TN.  The day's finds include 2 nice arrow hook "U.S." oval waist belt plates - one C.S. manufacture plain face pewter waist belt plate - one very rare "Rope Border" style C.S. oval waist belt plate - A beautiful Leech and Rigdon style "CS" marked Confederate Cavalry Officer's spur - and over 100 bullets and buttons.  Now those are some priceless memories !!

  39. Last Thursday (now many years ago !!) was absolutely beautiful and 67 degrees.  My daughter - Savannah - and I decided that it was a perfect day to play "Hooky" and go relic digging instead of opening the shop.  I had found a small Union camp a few weeks earlier and we decided to see what was there.  We got several bullets - a coat size eagle "I" button - and then I got this nice clear "80" reading on the scale.  At 14 inches deep and under several big roots was a beautiful early style - lead filled - "U.S." oval.  Notice the oval "ghost" where it has been laying in the ground for the last 150 years.  Savannah now has it in her display case to remember the experience !!!!!  {If a guy could bottle the rush that you get from digging a Civil War belt plate - It would put Cocaine right out of business !!}

  40. We first want to send a huge thank you to Robert Hooven of Madison, Alabama, for his hard work and prompt attention to my Great Grandfather's grave stone.  My Great Grandfather is buried in the very old cemetery at the Madison Crossroads Presbyterian Church located near Huntsville, Alabama, near the Tennessee Alabama line.  A while back, one of the pieces of maintenance equipment at the cemetery hit our Great Grandfather's head stone and broke it loose from the base it was anchored to.  Robert was kind of enough to, the very next day, go and find the damaged stone, thoroughly clean and reseat it.  Our entire family send our heartfelt gratitude to Robert for taking care of this for us.  We could sure use more folks like Robert!!!

  41. Huge congratulations go out to 11-year-old Madison Brewer.  Madison is the lucky winner of our 7th Youth Giveaway - A Garrett Ground Hog metal detector.  We hope that it is the beginning of a very enjoyable hobby and that Madison has lots of fun looking for Civil War relics with her Grandfather who has done it for many years.  (This really makes us happy!!!)  Madison is ready to go Civil War relic hunting with her Granddad -- Charlie Adams.  VERY IMPORTANT:  What time is it - what time is it???  It is Youth Relic Giveaway time again.  And this time, we are stepping up our game.  We are giving away a used Garrett Groundhog VLF/TR metal detector complete with a new high fidelity set of headphones and also a new Whites Bullseye pinpointer for locating your target.  This detector is several years old but still works perfectly and even comes with experience as this detector has already recovered a US belt buckle and a Confederate belt buckle.  The "Groundhog" takes some practice in getting used to, but even though it's a few years old, will still dig relics perfectly well.  Several years back, this detector was cutting-edge technology, but today there have been numerous improvements.  It is our hope that this detector will help inspire some young person toward many years of coin and/or relic recovery.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  We will draw the winner on October 2, 2021, (my 70th birthday) and best of luck to everyone.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Kenny Brown - Jeff and Theresa Ruth - Gerard Simoneaux - Gary Strobel - Jeff Anderson - Lael Nelson, and Justin Simpson.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  42. Congratulations to the winner of our 6th Youth Civil War Relic Contest, "Tennessee Smith", of Mineral, Virginia.  This display is in a beautiful walnut display case and consists of an excavated Federal Eagle breast plate, four original Civil War uniform buttons, an original excavated Civil War domino, five different types of Civil War bullets, and an original $100 Bank of Louisiana Civil War note.  We hope this display helps to encourage Tennessee's interest in Civil War artifacts, history, and heritage.  We have carried all entries forward, and we invite and encourage any young folks age 14 and under to send us a letter telling us why they would like to win this Civil War display, and we will get you entered into the contest.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic give-away displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Jeff Anderson - Gary Strobel - Justin Simpson - and Gerard Simoneaux.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!! BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE !!!

  43. WINNER, WINNER - chicken dinner - We have just had our drawing for the FIFTH Youth Civil War Relic Display Giveaway, and our winner is LILLY HICKOX from Arlington, Virginia.  We send our congratulations to Lilly and we will carry forward all our Youth entries for the next relic display giveaway which will begin soon.  Once again, Congratulations to Lilly !!!  ------  It is once again Youth Relic Display Contest time in Tennessee.  This relic display is, in my opinion, one of the most attractive to this point.  The display consists of a Droop Wing Eagle Confederate Officer's button, a camp site recovered soldier's Crucifix, a very attractive excavated lead-filled Eagle breast plate from here at Stones River, a stamped brass Cavalry rosette with the raised heart, an original pair of soldier's reading glasses, an original 1862 Wilmington, North Carolina, Confederate note, an original Civil War era domino, several bullets, a musket gun tool, a canteen stopper pull, and a coat size Federal Eagle button all displayed in a professionally made oak display case.  This collection is easily worth over $400.  So, young folks, get busy and let me hear from you.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic displays possible: Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - Charlie Williams - Jeff Anderson - Gary Strobel - and Gerard Simoneaux.  We will carry forward all entries from the first, second, third, and fourth giveaways.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger) who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.    IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  This contest has ended October 31, 2020.

  44. AND THE WINNER OF OUR FOURTH YOUTH RELIC DISPLAY CONTEST IS JAX BLEVINS (WHO CAN BE SEEN ABOVE WORKING ON HIS LETTER).  We will soon have our fifth Civil War display put together and a new contest underway.  All entries will be carried forward to the next contest, so if you haven't won so far -- Keep the faith - You might very well win the next one !!!  CONGRATULATIONS JAX !!!  IT IS TIME FOR OUR FOURTH YOUTH RELIC GIVEAWAY.  This display contains a genuine, excavated, lead-filled, Federal Eagle breast plate, a brass bayonet scabbard tip, a $15 coupon from a Confederate Loan Bond, an original Civil War domino, a .54 cal., ring tail Sharps Cavalry bullet, a coat size Federal Infantry Officer button, and a gilted cuff size New York State Seal button.  The following individuals, along with Nita & myself have contributed artifacts to make these youth relic displays possible: Eric Lawson Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - and Charlie Williams.  We will carry forward all entries from the first, second, and third giveaways.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger) who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.    IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  This contest will end July 31, 2020

  45. AND WE HAVE A WINNER - OUR FIRST YOUNG LADY - MS. CASTIBELLE SCHWEINFURTH !!!  EVEN AT HER TENDER YOUNG AGE CASTIBELLE IS A FAMILIAR FACE AROUND THE CIVIL WAR LIVING HISTORY COMMUNITY, AND THAT IS THANKS TO THE DELIGENT EFFORTS OF HER MOM AND DAD - (BRET AND KELLY).  MY CONGRATULATIONS TO A VERY DESERVING YOUNG LADY !!!  IT IS YOUTH RELIC DISPLAY GIVEAWAY CONTEST TIME AGAIN !!!  This is our THIRD youth relic display give-away, and this beautiful display consists of an original VIRGINIA Confederate note - several bullets - one beautiful gilted Federal Infantry officer button - one bayonet scabbard tip - one sword belt length adjuster - a right and a left Civil War knapsack J-hook - a baggage trunk key - and a harmonica board.  I would like to thank Eric Lawson - Ted and B. J. Campbell- David Hadden - Russ and Dottie Wunker - Jerry Emberlin - Tom Stone - William Briner - Jody Wright - Ed Heck - and Charlie Williams who along with Nita and myself made this display possible.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger) who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.    IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  THIS CONTEST WILL END MARCH 31, 2020.  If any of you old time relic hunter/collectors would like to help support these youth relic give-aways, please just send over any relics to help us out.  Your help will certainly be appreciated and go for a good endeavor !!  TRIVIA QUESTION -- CAN ANYONE GUESS WHY CASTIBELLE IS HOLDING THE CANNON !!!  (HINT -- THE ANSWER IS IN THE QUESTION !!) - (ANOTHER HINT - WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PART OF THE CANNON THAT CASTIBELLE IS HOLDING !!!)

  46. We just received the most current issue of "North South Trader", and, low and behold, there is Adian on page 19 - Youth Division.  Apparently, when you're hot, you're hot!!!   CONGRATULATIONS!!!  We have just held our drawing for our SECOND Youth Relic Giveaway, and our winner is - ADIAN HARWICK - from Lititz, PA.  Soon after the Thanksgiving holiday, we will begin our third Youth Relic Giveaway, and we will carry forward all entries from the first and second giveaways.  This is a fantastic display, and we congratulate Adian on his win!!!  We appreciate all of the youths who entered the first and second drawings.  We encourage ANY other interested youths (14 years of age and younger)  who have not yet entered to send a letter telling why you would like to win the Civil War artifact giveaway display, and you will be entered as well.  We want to do our part to encourage our youth to be interested in our heritage.  IF YOU GUYS HAPPEN TO KNOW ANY YOUNG FOLKS THAT REALLY LIKE HISTORY - PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THESE CONTESTS !!!  I'D REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR HELP IN SPREADING THE WORD !!!  ADIAN - YOUR PRIZE IS ON THE WAY TO YOU !!!

  47. ATTENTION - OUR "FIRST" YOUTH RELIC GIVE AWAY !!! - I was asked by a friend (MR. DICK TIMPANO) to give away this nice starter Civil War Bullet collection to a deserving young collector.  If you are 14 years old or younger and are really interested in Civil War history - please send me a letter as to why you would like to have this collection, and in a couple weeks we are going to have a drawing from all the names of young folks that sent me a letter wanting this collection.  We will show pictures of the drawing and post the WINNER on the page here !!!  GOOD LUCK !!!  SEND LETTER TO:  Larry Hicklen -- 3511 Old Nashville Hwy. - Murfreesboro, TN. -- 37129  (WE ARE GOING TO ACCEPT ENTRIES ARRIVING IN PERSON OR THROUGH MAIL DELIVERY ON OR BEFORE SEP. 30, 2019 !!!)  IF YOU ARE AN OLD SCHOOL CIVIL WAR COLLECTOR AND WOULD LIKE TO DONATE RELICS IN SUPPORT OF THESE RELIC GIVE-AWAYS TO YOUNG FOLKS -- PLEASE LET ME HEAR FROM YOU !!  THIS CONTEST IS NOW OVER AND WE WILL VERY SOON HAVE THE DRAWING.  BUT --- WE WILL SOON ANNOUNCE THE NEXT CONTEST, AND EVERYONE THAT ENTERED INTO THIS CONTEST WILL BE CARRIED OVER, -- SO YOU ARE ALREADY REGISTERED !!  MANY THANKS TO MR. DICK TIMPANO FOR THE ARTIFACTS !!!  AND OUR WINNER IS - JONATHAN PRIOR - 5TH GRADE, AGE 10!!!  CONGRATULATIONS, JONATHAN.

  48. A little while earlier today (7-12-19), I had a couple of fellows in the shop from near Perryville, Kentucky.  In the course of looking at relics and discussing various battlefields, one of the gentlemen said, "I visit your nature area at the Battlefield of Perryville quite often."  I had absolutely no idea what he was talking about.  A good many years ago (25 to 30 I'd say), I purchased a 54-acre farm on the Battlefield of Perryville, Kentucky, that was in danger of being developed.  I held the farm for several years until the Civil War Preservation Trust was in a position to acquire it.  Little did I know that in appreciation for saving that part of the Battlefield, I have a pond and nature area marked with our family name.  How cool is that!!!

  49. Here is an interesting set of 4 photographs contrasting the panther and the bobcat.  These four photographs were taken by the same game cam at the same location a few days apart.  Notice aside from the obvious (the panther has a long tail and the bobcat has virtually no tail), that they are structurally different as well.  The panther is overall larger, more muscular, especially in the front shoulders, than the bobcat.  The bobcat has a more slender profile with his back legs almost appearing longer than his front legs.  Also, the two cats make very different screams.  On the bright side, one would think that we shouldn't have a mouse problem on the mountain!!!

  50. We are headed to the mountain today, and hopefully there will be some cool new trail cam pictures to share !!  For the past couple of months, our neighbors and ourselves have been hearing the cry of an unusual animal.  About a month ago, I caught sight of what appeared to be a large cat moving through the woods.  Several weeks ago we installed a game cam to be able to see what type animals were passing.  One of the locations of the game camera was where several roads and paths came together.  At this location, we saw more different type animals than any other location of the camera.  We have been scattering corn and cut the Halloween pumpkins into and placed them in front of the camera.  We have seen many different type mountain animals including deer, armadillos, red fox, coyote, and raccoons.  A couple of nights ago, we captured a couple photographs of this huge Mountain Bobcat - (We at first thought Panther, but markings suggest a LARGE male Bobcat rather than Panther.)  As you guys can now clearly see - WE DEFINITELY HAVE A PANTHER (aka Eastern Mountain Lion) - (as well as a Bobcat) !!!  We have no doubt that he was drawn to this location by the smell of the presence of all the other wild animals that had been there eating.  To give a size reference, the pumpkin halves beside the cat are ten inches in diameter.  Notice the power and muscle mass of this big cat.  We will likely think twice now about taking night walks through the woods!!!  A few nights ago our next door neighbor found a deer slain, and litereally shreded - I wonder who might have done THAT !!!  Outside "MAN WITH GUN" - This guy really is "King Of The Woods" !!!

  51. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, Richmond Arsenal pattern "CS" tongue and wreath sword belt plate.  The two pieces were dug together by Jerry Headley approximately 40 years ago.  The buckle was recovered from a Confederate Cavalry camp located near Brock Road at the Battle of the Wilderness.  This buckle is a beauty and remains just as dug with no repairs whatsoever.  They just aren't being dug this nice anymore.--$3,250.

  52. Very nice condition, Model 1840, "Old Wristbreaker", Heavy Cavalry saber and scabbard.  Model 1840 sabers were extensively carried by both Union and Confederate Cavalry, especially early in the Civil War.  Union Cavalry, for the most part, changed over to Model 1860 Light Cavalry sabers, but Confederate Cavalry continued to carry the Model 1840 "Old Wristbreaker" throughout the Civil War.  Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest carried one early in the war, and many in his command carried Model 1840 sabers throughout the Civil War.  This particular saber has a smooth, gently aging, brown patina with the cast brass, 3-branch guard in excellent condition and completely intact.  The leather grip was decayed away and has been professionally replaced.  This saber is out of a local estate and was very likely Confederate carried.--$795.

  53. Beautiful condition, original pair of Civil War Era, cast brass civilian spurs of the style often used around plantations.  These type spurs were often carried from home and the plantation to the Civil War for cavalry use in the early years.  This pair of cast brass spurs remains in excellent, usable condition with full rowels and original leather straps still intact.  Would fit nicely into a C.S. cavalry display !!--$295. for the pair

  54. Very pretty condition, excavated, Confederate sheet brass rectangular waist belt plate recovered from the camp of the 1st Alabama Cavalry who were camped near the Stewart Creek railroad trestle in November - December 1862 (immediately before the Battle of Stones River).  There are remnants of the iron hooks on the reverse.--$225.SOLD

  55. Absolutely beautiful, excavated, emerald green, coat size, solid cast, Confederate block "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered at the Battle of Franklin in a lawn along Lewisburg Pike.--$165.SOLD

  56. Absolutely beautiful, excavated, circular, lead-filled, Federal Eagle breast plate.  This was recovered about 45 years ago on private property here at Stones River among the limestone out-croppings.  Plates this nice are just not being recovered any more.--$225.SOLD

  57. Excellent condition, non-excavated, .69 cal., musket ball scissor type bullet mold.  Many Confederate Infantry were issued smooth bore, .69 cal. muskets in 1861.  In some cases, Confederates were forced to mold their own bullets.--$65.

  58. Quite rare cast brass scissor type folding double cavity .44 cal. "country rifle" bullet mold.  This is the type bullet mold that many young Confederates left home carrying along with the family fowling rifle.  We recover these in very early war Confederate camps.--$150.

  59. Absolutely beautiful condition, 4 1/2 inch "Eagle Flask".  This is the type powder flask usually found with "cased" pocket model sized revolvers.  This example is super nice without even one single dent or open seam.--$350.

  60. Beautiful condition, quite rare, excavated, glazed clay pipe WITH COMPLETE 4 INCH STEM.  For every 100 pipes and partial pipes that we recover from Civil War trash pits, you are doing good if "ONE" is full length and unbroken.  This one was recovered from a Confederate trash pit along the Duck River near Shelbyville, Tennessee.--$55.

  61. Excellent condition original Civil War era "Jew's Harp".  These were very popular with soldiers - both Union and Confederate - during the Civil War because they were a small musical device that was easy to drop in a pocket, and carry on the march.--$45.

  62. Excavated, very ornate, cast brass Cavalry spur.  This spur was recovered from an Alabama Cavalry camp located near Middleton, Tennessee.  This was the camp of the 1st Alabama Cavalry that was attacked March 23, 1863, at dawn by General David Stanley's Federal Cavalry.  The spur remains in very nice complete condition.--$150.

  63. Very pretty, excavated, thick "Atlanta" style, cast brass, Confederate CSA rectangular waist belt plate.  This plate has a nice, brown/green patina and has all three attachment hooks remaining intact.  This plate was recovered over 30 years ago from the Confederate defense line around Atlanta, Georgia.  It would be an absolute centerpiece for most any excavated artifact collection.  It is a rarity now-a-days to recover one, especially with all three hooks still intact.--$3,450.SOLD

  64. Drop-dead perfect, excavated, lead-filled Texas/Mississippi Cavalry rosette.  This rosette was recovered from the camp of the 8th Texas Cavalry located near Spring Hill, Tennessee, and is in absolutely beautiful condition.  It has the raised star of the same pattern that is on the New Orleans style round loop two-piece belt plates.  It has full lead fill in the reverse.--$650.SOLD

  65. Excellent condition, non-excavated, regulation, cast brass, Civil War Era Federal Cavalry spur.  This spur is out of a central Illinois estate and has had the regulation issue, iron rowel replaced with a Civil War Era rowel hand made from an era silver dime.  A very cool relic.--$95.

  66. Very nice condition and SUPER RARE, Civil War date (August 1, 1862) United States $1 "GREEN BACK".  This note is serial number 38529 and has strong edges all the way around, mildly circulated with three old fold lines..  I have seen this note in only slightly better condition sell for over $2,000.  Here is your chance to have an absolute rarity from the American Civil War, a nice condition, original, war date $1 United States green back.--$650.

  67. Quite rare July 4, 1862 date $1. note drawn on the Bullion Bank of Washington, DC.  Some collectors view this War Time note literally as a form of a "Greenback".  This is a nice complete note, but does show "average" circulation.  This is actually a note that most collections are missing.--$225.

  68. Very cool, excavated, drop, .46 cal., Swiss Chaucer foreign rifle bullet.  This projectile was recovered over 40 years ago by Otis Brown of Ft. Donelson, Tennessee.  The base of the bullet was lightly scalloped by the soldier.  These are currently known as the "Dimick" rifle projectiles and are generally associated with the 66 Illinois Volunteer Infantry.--$48.

  69. Attic find, Model 1860, Federal light Cavalry saber.  It has a thick brown patina over the blade, and the grip is down to wood.  The brass guard and pommel cap have a chocolate brown patina almost like it was excavated.--$450.

  70. Quite scarce October 1, 1855 Rhode Island $5. note drawn on the "Central Bank of Rhode Island".  This very intricate note pictures "President George Washington", and is mildly circulated, but complete with strong edges.--$95.

  71. Absolutely beautiful condition "1863" date 10 cent fractional note.  The note appears to be completely uncirculated, and the colors are bright and vivid.--$75.

  72. Super-nice soldier made lead nipple protector.  This was made from a .69 cal. Tower projectile, and is as Rebel as you can get.  This was recovered on private property here at Stones River.--$20.

  73. Extremely rare, original Civil War Pioneer Brigade, leather axe holder with original strap.  In 50 years, I have only had about a half dozen of these.  This one remains in very nice complete condition.--$350.SOLD

  74. Very cool, excavated, drop, .46 cal., Swiss Chaucer foreign rifle bullet.  This projectile was recovered over 40 years ago by Otis Brown of Ft. Donelson, Tennessee.  The base of the bullet was lightly scalloped by the soldier.  These are currently known as the "Dimick" rifle projectiles and are generally associated with the 66 Illinois Volunteer Infantry.--$48.

  75. Quite rare CDV of Confederate General Robert E. Lee with a San Francisco, California, backmark.  This image is backmarked, "Wise & Prindle Photographers, No. 417 Montgomery Street - San Francisco".  You just don't see many images coming out of California during this era.--$350.

  76. Early 1900's, silver capped, walnut walking stick.  The silver top is beautifully and ornately engraved.  This is the exact style walking stick that early 1900 Civil War Veterans carried to reunions.  This one remains in excellent condition.--$195.

  77. Beautiful condition and super rare, "Kraft, Goldsmith, & Kraft", Columbia, South Carolina, Confederate Cavalry saber with distinctive wooden scabbard, iron mounts and brass hardware.  This saber has an original Civil War Era, brown ink presentation on the wooden scabbard.  It reads, "Presented to Commodore John H. Sta??? by his friend, General George B. Dand???".  It is very rare to find a K G & K Cavalry saber with a nice original scabbard, and this one is a beauty.  The blade has a smooth, gently aging, gray/brown patina.  The original grip and wire remain intact and in nice condition.  This saber came into the shop about 40 years ago and has been in the collection of Dr. Joe Boyd ever since.  I have no doubt this is one of the nicest condition K G & K Confederate manufactured Cavalry sabers remaining in existence today.--$9,500.

  78. Really pretty,1862 date, 3-band, Enfield Towers, .577 cal. musket.  This musket is marked with "Sinclair Hamilton" import marks at two different locations.  The musket remains in smooth, chocolate brown patina and is completely untampered with.  Here is your chance to own a 100% pure Confederate marked Enfield at a very fair price.--$3,450.

  79. Nice condition, non-excavated, single-shot, .44 cal., percussion boot pistol.  This is the style with a folding trigger that was extensively carried during the Civil War as a last line of defense by both Union and Confederates.  These were typically carried stuck in the boot or behind the belt or in the vest like the one pictured.  Every Civil War collection should have one of these.--$450.

  80. Nice condition, small leather Federal percussion cap pouch.  This pouch has both flaps intact as well as both belt loops and closure finial.  The box is maker marked, "J. E. Condict - New York".  There are still some original percussion caps inside.--$175.

  81. Excavated, 30 pound Parrott projectile that was recovered over 30 years ago from near Charleston, South Carolina.  This shell has been disarmed, cleaned, and coated and is ready for display.  The base of the shell remains intact, but it did kick the sabot.--$295.

  82. Excellent condition, excavated, coat size, Confederate Script "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  This button was recovered near Fredericksburg, Virginia, about 40 years ago and has a near reflective brown patina.  This is a first class excavated button with shank intact.--$175.

  83. Absolutely beautiful set of coat size, non-dug, gilted, Federal Officer's buttons.  This group consists of Federal Cavalry, Federal Infantry, Federal Rifleman, Federal Artillery, Federal Dragoon, and Federal Staff.  All buttons are perfect with 95% gold gilt intact.--$450.

  84. Very pretty, excavated, large size, lead filled, US oval waist belt plate with "puppy-paw" style hooks.  This buckle was recovered many years ago (1972) by Ed Heck from the Federal camps along the North Anna River in Virginia.  This buckle is missing the front hook, but is otherwise flawless.--$275.

  85. Very pretty condition, non-excavated, Federal French Horn (Infantry insignia).  This is an excellent example with both attaching loops remaining intact on the reverse.--$125.

  86. SUPER RARE "MEDIUM SIZE" SC (SOUTH CAROLINA) oval recovered MANY years ago from an early Civil War SOUTH CAROLINA Militia camp located near CHARLESTON, SC.  The buckle has a little rim restoration, and a couple rust spots, but is one VERY rare buckle, and displays NICELY.  The buckle has full lead, and all three attachment hooks intact.  It has been multi years since I have had one of these to offer !!--$3,450.

  87. Nice condition iron cavalry bit of the Civil War era, and extensively used by Southern cavalry.  These are considered civilian bits that were common around Southern Plantations, and very often found their way into Confederate use.  This example exactly matches the one in the reference book.  I have personally recovered several of these from 1862/1863 Confederate Cavalry winter camps.  This example remains nice enough to literally still use today.--$79.

  88. Very pretty condition, excavated, private purchase, Confederate used cast brass spur.  This spur was recovered from General Starne's 1862 Confederate Cavalry camp on top of the Cumberland Plateau.  I have in my collection a near twin to this one that I recovered from the same camp.  Both the iron rowel and small brass spur strap buckle remain intact.--$375.

  89. Cast brass, turn of the century/World War I, regulation brass Cavalry spur.  This spur is marked, "WP4" and remains in nice, complete condition.--$65.

  90. Beautiful condition, completely uncirculated, $5 Arkansas Treasury note dated April 4, 1862.  This is serial number 71147 and is as crisp and perfect today as the day it was issued.--$125.

  91. Original, small leather cartridge box for the .36 caliber Navy Revolvers such as Colt, Remington, etc.  This box came out of a local Southern family and is quite "used" and appears to have seen many a campaign.  It's a cool little relic though and displays well.--$65.

  92. Original Civil War shipping box for a Hand Made Gilt Officer's Sword Knot.  This knot was shipped from France to "H. S. Meyer - New york".  This is the original shipping box only - without a sword knot inside, but with the original shipping label intact.--$35.

  93. VERY COOL RELIC !!!  Excavated walnut grip from what looks to be from one of the several Navy size revolvers used during the Civil War era.  This was recovered from an 1863 Army of Tennessee CONFEDERATE trash pit along Duck River near Shelbyville, TN.  It has all sorts of carving on it including "7" kill notches.  Trash pits can preserve some amazing things.  Once upon a time, about 40 years ago, I saw an old gentleman recover a nearly complete pair of blue Federal Military trousers !!!--$95.

  94. Just in out of a local estate, very nice condition, Model 1851, .36 cal., Colt 6-shot Navy Model revolver.  This revolver has a smooth, gently aging, gray patina with barrel markings of, "Address Col Saml Colt - New York - US America".  The cylinder retains about 50% original engraving, and the revolver has an all-matching serial number (even the wedge) of 130947, which is most desirable 1862 - 1863 mid-war production.  The revolver has crisp, perfect action - original walnut grips - and would be a fine addition to any Civil War collection.--$2,450.(for the revolver only)

  95. Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, Script "A" (Artillery) uniform button.  This button was recovered many years ago from the 1862 - 1863 Confederate Artillery camp on Lewisburg Pike near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  It has crisp detail, a smooth chocolate brown patina, "Isaac's Campbell London" backmark and shank intact.--$375.

  96. Excellent condition, near uncirculated, State of Mississippi, July 1, 1862, $10 note.  This note is serial number 34766 and pictures a steam locomotive on the front.  I don't think you could find a more perfect example.--$175.

  97. Beautiful condition, near uncirculated, State of Florida, March 1, 1863, $3 note.  This note is serial number 5438 and was printed in Tallahassee, Florida.  It couldn't be in nicer condition.--$225.

  98. Recently released FANTASTIC Civil War reference book by Butch Holcombe, and Charles Harris consisting of 239 pages of excavated Civil War Relics, and ALL in vivid FULL COLOR !!  "CIVIL WAR RELICS OF THE WESTERN CAMPAIGNS & BEYOND:  1861 - 1865" will likely be the last in depth reference book on excavated Civil War artifacts.  I had the honor of being asked by Butch and Charlie to write the Forward for this book.  As far as I know, there are only 3 or four copies of this book with all three of our autographs, and this is one of them !!!--$150.SOLD

  99. Excellent condition, excavated, lead-filled, circular, Federal Eagle breast plate.  This plate was recovered about 40 years ago on private property here at Stones River by Wade Buchanan.  You couldn't ask for a nicer plate with crisp detail on the face, pretty, uncleaned woods patina, full lead, and both attachment loops intact.--$225.

  100. Very pretty condition, non-excavated, coat size, Civil War issue Vermont State Seal.  The reverse has an "RMDC Waterbury Scovill" backmark, and the shank is intact.--$150.

  101. Excellent, near uncirculated condition, quite rare, State of Missouri, Civil War date $3 note.  This note is dated January 1, 1862, and was printed in Jefferson City.  These notes were printed on the reverse of unused 1850's bonds.  This example is serial number 13601.--$175.

  102. Near uncirculated condition, State of Alabama $5, January 1, 1864, Confederate Treasury note.  This note is serial number 13179 and was printed in Montgomery, Alabama.--$125.

  103. Really pretty excavated coat size Georgia State Seal.  Very nice uncleaned face with chocolate brown patina, and traces of woods mulch.  This was recovered by Dr. Rees Buttram from private property near Chickamauga.  The reverse is excellent with a "Steele and Johnson" backmark and shank intact.--$195.

  104. SMOKING NICE excavated coat size Confederate "Script I" (Infantry).  This one was recovered about 40 years ago from a Confederate camp on private property near Fredericksburg, VA.  It has a blank back with shank intact.--$175.

  105. Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, "Richmond Arsenal" style CS two-piece, tongue and wreath sword belt plate.  This buckle was recovered about 40 years ago from a Confederate Cavalry camp near Brandy Station, Virginia.  The two buckle halves were a belt length apart.  You couldn't ask for a nicer two-piece CS sword belt plate.--$3,250.

  106. Extremely rare, fully cased, 1/4 plate ambrotype of two seated Confederate Cavalrymen.  One has a Colt Army across his chest, and the other has a Colt Pocket model across his chest.  Both are wearing bow ties and high top Cavalry boots and spurs.--$1,150.

  107. Super rare, "College Hill Arsenal", Nashville, Tennessee, Confederate Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard.  This sword has the same "CSA" cast into the brass guard as the Nashville Plow Works.  The ribbon that is cast into the guard has nothing cast into it whereas "Nashville Plow Works" is integrally cast into the products of Nashville Plow Arsenal.  This beautiful sword is out of the local area and has been in one of the most advanced local collections for the past 40 years.  The blade of the sword has visible Confederate engraving from top to bottom.  The engraving has an "open mouth serpent" as a part of the engraving, and this is known to be an example of "Cunningham" engraving.  The sword has a nice condition, original grip and is in a correct style import leather scabbard.  This was often the case as original Confederate scabbards were often made of poor quality leather and did not last.  This is the nicest College Hill Field and Staff Officer's Confederate sword that we have had come through in a number of years.--$9,850.

  108. Excellent condition, thick Atlanta style rectangle CSA on original brown pigskin belt.  The belt remains in complete pliable condition, and the buckle shows nice service wear with all three attachment hooks present.  This is a museum grade Confederate waist belt rig.--$5,750.

  109. Smokingly beautiful, non-excavated, Richmond Arsenal pattern, CS two-piece sword belt plate with a portion of the original "bullet stitch", brown leather, Confederate belt.  This CS buckle and partial belt is part of a display that also consists of (6)six excellent condition, coat size, Civil War issue, Superior Quality, "C.S.A." uniform buttons and (2) two coat size Federal Staff Officer buttons of the type frequently worn by Confederate Officers.  Also in the display is a $50 Confederate note also from Richmond, Virginia.  This display is in a very nice quality, hand made, 12" by 18" walnut display case.  This would be a beautiful addition to even a museum display.--$6,550.

  110. Really pretty, excavated, BIG 24MM, CS36, Confederate Army Officer with "H. T. & B. Manchester" backmark.  This button has super nice eye appeal with the gold gilt perfectly outlining the Eagle and Stars.  The reverse is slightly pressed inward, but the shank remains intact, and the backmark is easily legible.  This is a button that there are only a handful recovered per years.--$895.

  111. Nice dug glazed clay "eagle claw" smoking pipe bowl.  This was recovered from a Confederate trash pit located near Shelbyville, TN.  These are relatively rare to recover, and really display well in a collection.--$125.

  112. Excavated, large oval, SNY waist belt plate.  This is one of the waist belt plates that was recovered from the sunken ship in the James River.  This SNY had the three iron hook hooking system on the revers, and the iron hooks are rusted away.  The buckle has a very pleasing appearance.  This style buckle is quite rare and has only been recovered in two or three sites.--$595.

  113. Very nice condition, large belt loop (2 inch belt), English snake buckle.  This is the style buckle that we most often encounter from Confederate camp sites.  They were issued with Enfield accoutrements.  This one was brought into the shop by a local family and remains in excellent condition with a dark, aging patina.--$495.

  114. Beautiful unissued, uncirculated Civil War era State Of Missouri $100. Missouri Defence Bond.  This is a Civil War Era Missouri Note that is rare to come by.--$175.

  115. Very nice condition, complete Model 1851, brown buff, Cavalry saber belt rig.  The brown buff belt remains strong and pliable with no breaks or repairs.  The sword belt plate is in beautiful condition with complete silver wreath and is the rare pattern with raised rays totally encircling the plate.  Additionally, both leather saber drops remain intact as well.  This rig is nice enough to easily go on a mannequin.--$975.

  116. Very pretty condition, near uncirculated, $100 note from the State of Mississippi.  This note has pretty green graphics, dated 1862, and is "Cotton Pledged" and redeemable for the sum of $100 in Confederate currency.  This is a super nice note.--$175.

  117. Very pretty condition, non-excavated, regulation, Federal "crossed sabers" Cavalry hat pin.  This pin has a pretty, aged patina, is missing the wire attachment loops, but the solder marks remain where they once were.--$275.

  118. Quite rare, and in very nice near uncirculated condition $50 State of Alabama Civil War date (January 1, 1864) note.  This note was printed in Montgomery, Alabama, and is redeemable in Confederate Treasury notes.  It is serial number 947.--$150.

  119. Beautiful condition, non-excavated, coat size, SILVERED, 1840/1850 era, Infantry Officer uniform button.  This is a button that you do not see every day, and this one is a beauty.--$75.

  120. Excellent condition, cast pewter reunion medal from the 1880 Soldiers and Sailors Reunion at Milwaukee, Wisconsin.--$79.

  121. Very nice condition, large size, lead-filled, arrow hook pattern, US oval waist belt plate on original black leather belt.  The brass adjuster remains intact as well as the original percussion cap box with "C.S. Storms" maker mark.  This is a very attractive complete belt rig.--$695.

  122. Really pretty set of five reunion ribbons and programs for the 102nd O.V.I.  The unit was mustered in on September 6, 1862, at Covington, Kentucky and mustered out at Columbus, Ohio, on June 30, 1865.  These ribbons and booklets are from 1889, 1896, and 1910.  They are displayed in an 8 x 10 Riker case.--$175. for all.

  123. Six excellent condition, coat size, floral pattern buttons recovered from the 1862/1863 winter camp of Wharton's 8th Texas Cavalry.  This camp was located near Unionville, Tennessee, (and is owned by one of my old grade school teachers).--$89. for all

  124. Drop-dead beautiful, non-excavated, 19MM CS5, Droop Wing Eagle Confederate Staff Officer's button.  This button has 100% (not 99%) bright gold gilt, and I don't think could be prettier.  If you have been waiting for a really nice one - here it is.--$195.

  125. Excavated, coat size, Droop Wing Eagle Confederate local Staff Officer's button.  This one was recovered from the camp of the 1st ALA. CAV. that was located near Middleton, TN, during the spring of 1863.  It has a smooth chocolate brown patina and appears to be a CS22.  The iron shank is rusted away as usual, but the button is otherwise complete and solid.--$195.

  126. Very pretty condition, non-excavated, circular, lead-filled, Federal Eagle cross belt plate.  This breast plate has a gently aging patina on the face with full lead and both attachment loops intact in the reverse.  If you have been needing one to complete your cartridge box rig, you won't find a nicer one.--$250.

  127. Group of three Civil War era images from the "Juda Family" of central ILL.  One of the images is a C.D.V. of John Juda, who was a member of Co. "C" - 45 Ill. Inf.  The 45 Ill. was one heck of a unit, and was at Fort Henry - Fort Donelson, Shiloh - Corinth - Port Hudson - Raymond - Champion's Hill - Big Black - Vicksburg - Meridan - Kennesaw - Atlanta - Jonesboro, - and Bentonville.  A nice little grouping for CHEAP !!!--$95. for all

  128. Nice condition, original Civil War Era, leather pistol cartridge box.  This is the correct box for .36 cal. or .44 cal. Colt, Remington, Whitney, and numerous other revolvers.  The box remains pliable and has a makers mark, but we can't quite read it.  This little cartridge box will display beautifully with your Civil War revolver.--$175.

  129. NOT CIVIL WAR (much older).  Native American flint scraper that is made on the order of an arrowhead.  This was picked up in a local crop field here in Middle Tennessee and is as cool as it can be, I think!--$38.

  130. Nice condition, "United States Naval Yard - Boston," marked leather naval fuse pouch.  The pouch remains in nice, pliable condition with a crisp "USNY - Boston" mark on the inside.  The box remains very stable but is missing the tip end of the leather closure tab.--$175.

  131. Very nice group of four CDV's and one tintype from the "Joy" family of Central Virginia.  One of the CDV's is labeled, "C. Joy, Army of Northern Virginia - 1865".  This image was taken by "Clinedinst & Seaford of Staunton, Virginia".  We are unsure exactly who this soldier is, but feel with some research, can be established.  For all five images--$125.

  132. Nice non-excavated group of seven G.A.R. buttons.  These are out of a Missouri estate, and perfect if you happen to have a G.A.R. jacket needing a couple.--$48. for all of them !!

  133. Mint condition original unissued "red" Federal Artillery hat cord for the "Hardee Style Hat".--$48.

  134. Excellent grouping of "5" Confederate camp site recovered LEAD (one is crude brass) cap box finials.  I personally recovered a couple of these from 1863 Confederate camps around Shelbyville, TN.--$65. (for all)

  135. Beautiful condition, excavated, "wreath portion" of a Richmond Arsenal style CS two-piece sword belt plate.  This wreath was recovered near Brandy Station, Virginia, several years ago, and all it needs is a correct Richmond Arsenal CS tongue to be a super nice Confederate sword belt plate.  Of all the different styles CS two-piece buckles, there seems to be more of this pattern than any other.  There is no doubt someone out there that has dug a Richmond Arsenal CS tongue needs this piece.  It has a really nice, uncleaned, brown/green patina.--$950.

  136. Model 1849, .318 cal., Colt pocket model revolver.  This revolver is a north Florida find and does have a brown, aged patina and light pitting overall.  The revolver has an all matching serial number of 87876 which is 1851 - 1852 early production.  Considering the early date of this revolver and its deep South location, it is very likely that the revolver was Confederate carried.  There is original silver wash remaining on both the trigger guard and back strap.  Not a grade "10" due to the Florida humidity but is a neat little Colt very likely CS carried.--$695.

  137. Just in out of a local Southern estate, Model 1860 import, CAVALRY OFFICER'S saber and scabbard.  This saber was almost certainly Southern carried and has an old leaded repair to the rear of the guard.  The saber has been carried so much that there are only faint remnants of the original blade engraving.  The saber has blade manufacturer markings of, "Henry Boker - Solingen".  General Nathan Bedford Forrest himself carried an imported Federal Cavalry Officer's sword much like this one.  This saber would certainly have some stories to tell.--$975.

  138. Excellent condition, Model 1855, .58 cal., triangular socket bayonet in nice condition original leather scabbard.  This bayonet is correct for the Model 1855 musket, Model 1861 Springfield and contract muskets, and Model 1863 muskets.  This bayonet would be a perfect compliment if you have a nice musket missing the bayonet.--$375.

  139. Beautiful condition, excavated, "crossed sabers" Federal Cavalry hat pin.  This pin was recovered over 40 years ago from a Federal Cavalry camp near Triune, Tennessee.--$295.

  140. Excavated Federal "bugle" Infantry kepi hat pin.  This was recovered on private property among the limestone outcroppings here at the Battle of Stones River.--$195.

  141. Very nice condition, non-excavated, .577 cal., Enfield triangular socket bayonet.  This is a nice, clean bayonet but is missing the small lock ring.  This would be the perfect compliment to display with your .577 cal. Enfield 3-band rifled musket.--$17Army of the CumberlandArmy of the Cumberland5.

  142. Model 1842, .69 cal., triangular socket bayonet with smooth, chocolate, aged patina found in a log smokehouse here locally near the Battle of Stones River.  Both Union and Confederate forces used lots of Model 1842, .69 cal. muskets here.  This is a very nice, untampered with bayonet left over from the battle.--$195.

  143. Beautiful condition, non-excavated, coat size, New York "Excelsior" Militia uniform button.  This button has intricate detail and beautiful silver wash with 90% remaining intact.  It is backmarked, "Treble Gilt" with the shank perfectly intact.--$125.

  144. Drop dead stunning 23 mm CS 130 excavated Confederate coat size "Script "C".  This was recovered about 45 years ago from near Fredericksburg, VA., and has a "baby butt" smooth chocolate brown patina with "Isaacs and Campbell" backmark, and shank intact and straight.--$495.

  145. Civil War Era, leather bound CDV photo album.  This album will hold 38 CDV's.  It remains in good, complete condition, but the leather is separating some across the leather back strap.  The interior remains in nice condition, and both brass clasps remain intact.  This would be excellent to hold and display your Civil War CDV's in.--$79.

  146. Nice condition,"from life" bust view of "J. M. Baruard"??  This image was taken by Case & Getchell, Boston, Massachusetts.  Most of the images in the album where this one came were members of the 4th Massachusetts Cavalry. We were not able to locate him, but we were unsure of the correct spelling of his name.  If anyone can locate him, please send me what Company and Regiment.--$75.

  147. VERY RARE CIVIL WAR ERA "COUNTERFEIT" of the T-10 July 25, 1861 Civil War Confederate "T-10" note.  This COUNTERFEIT, although scarce, is an easy one to spot in that the genuine Confederate T-10 notes DID NOT HAVE THE LARGE GREEN "CSA" overprint.  In 50 years I have only had about 5 of these !!!  This is a beauty in near uncirculated condition.--$175.

  148. Nice condition, Model 1860, Light Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The blade has a smooth, aging, gray/brown patina with blade markings of, "US - Emerson & Silver - Trenton, NJ - 1864 - US - DFM".  The brass guard has a smooth, dark, attic bronze/brown patina, and the grip and wire remain intact.  The scabbard has a smooth, brown, aging patina with some slight remnants of old nickel plating.  The saber displays very nicely.--$795.

  149. Very nice condition, original non-excavated, stamped brass, "French Horn", Federal Infantry Hardee hat insignia.  This hat pin remains as crisp as can be with a gently aging brass patina.  The reverse of the pin still has one of the two attaching loops remaining intact.  You couldn't ask for a prettier example.--$115.

  150. Smoking nice excavated large size lead filled "Puppy Paw" hook variety U.S. oval.  This was recovered here locally about 50 years ago, and is just a jewel.--$325.

  151. Beautiful condition excavated large size lead filled US oval cartridge boxplate.  Woods mulch on the face has never even been washed off.  Full lead, and both loops intact on the reverse.  This was recovered on private property here at Stones River about 45 years ago.--$225.

  152. Very nice condition excavated larger size glazed crock ink.--$65.

  153. Really nice excavated glazed crock small ink recovered from a Confederate camp in central TN.--$48.

  154. Very nice condition "US" marked cast brass lock of the exact type that we recover in Civil War Federal camp sites.  This will be a very nice addition to any Civil War display.--$75.

  155. Beautiful condition, excavated, large size, lead-filled US oval cartridge box plate.  This plate was recovered on private property here at Stones River over 40 years ago.  It has a smooth, chocolate brown face, full lead, and both attachment loops remain intact.--$225.

  156. Excavated, coat size, Confederate block "I" (Infantry) button.  This is a style button that has the stamped brass face and iron back.  This Confederate "I" button was recovered from Lucius Polk's Confederate Brigade camp located near Tullahoma, Tennessee.  The face has a slight push, but the "I" is easy to see.  This one has one of the prettiest reverses that you are going to see.  The full iron back and shank remain perfectly intact.--$75.

  157. Bust view CDV of Jackson Kilpatrick.  The image is backmarked, "S. H. Colesworthy - 92 Exchange St. Portland ME".  We believe Jackson to have been in the 28th Regiment Pennsylvania Infantry.--$95.

  158. Beautiful condition, non-excavated, coat size, Federal Eagle enlistedman's button.  The button has crisp detail and has the scarce backmark, "Walton Bros. - New York", and the shank remains intact and straight.--$45.

  159. Excavated Civil War Cavalry saber recovered on private property at the Battle of Stones River.  This saber was not one saber when recovered.  It consisted of a very nice excavated blade, an excellent cast brass 3-branch guard, and an Officer's style cast pommel cap.  The three elements of this sword are actually from three different type sabers.  The pommel cap is from an Officer's sword, the 3-branch cast brass guard is from a Cavalry saber, and the sharply curved blade is from an Artillery saber.  My good friend, Wade Buchanan, recovered these parts and put them together so he could have a sword to display in his collection.  It does display quite nicely and has a visible 1862 date on the blade.--$495.

  160. Beautiful condition, Civil War date, State of Alabama $100 note.  This note is dated January 1, 1864, and is serial number 1868.  It has the "Map on Tree" in the lower left and an Indian camp scene in the center.  This is a Montgomery, Alabama, note and is redeemable in Confederate Treasury notes.--$175.

  161. Super rare, identified College Hill Arsenal Confederate Foot Officer’s sword and scabbard.  This sword and scabbard is the product of College Hill Arsenal in Nashville, Tennessee.  The sword was carried by Capt. Samuel A. Matthews, Co. E, 16th Regiment Mississippi Volunteer Infantry.  Capt. Matthews served for one year and was with his regiment encamped at Manassas, Virginia, when his term expired.  The sword remains in very nice condition with visible Confederate engraving virtually half the length of the blade and a large engraved “CSA” clearly engraved down the blade.  The sword’s scabbard is complete with all three original College Hill manufactured brass mounts.  On the top mount is engraved “Matt – Co. E 16th Miss”.  This is an extremely rare, firmly ID’d, Confederate Officer’s sword in original scabbard.  It originally came directly out of Capt. Matthew’s family estate.  A 50-page notebook comes with the sword detailing the history of the Regiment and Capt. Matthews.--$14,500.

  162. Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, Mississippi "Militia" button.  This is an MP5A with the plain star and the word "Mississippi" perimetering the outside edge.  I personally recovered this button about 40 years ago from a Mississippi campsite located near Tullahoma, Tennessee.  This button remains absolutely solid as a rock.--$850.

  163. I've just purchased 10,000 mixed excavated Civil War bullets.  Bag of 50 mixed dropped and fired U.S. and C.S. bullets (Aproximately 2/3 dropped and 1/3 fired) - each bag includes a variety of different type bullets at a low cost of $1.78 per bullet--$89. per bag.

  164. Drop dead beautiful, excavated, large size, lead-filled US oval cartridge box plate.  This plate was recovered on private property here at Stones River over 40 years ago.  It has a reflective, brown/green patina, full lead, and both attachment loops remaining intact.  This one is literally about nice enough to go back on a box.--$225.

  165. Really nice excavated "W. H. Smith - Brooklyn" maker marked Federal eagle breastplate.  This was recovered on private property here at Stones River between 40 and 50 years ago.  The first one of these that I ever recovered was about 50 years ago, and there were virtually no reference books.  I was all excited thinking that I had recovered W. H. Smith's personal breastplate.  The thrill of thinking "that" only lasted a few minutes until Wade (my relic hunting buddy) ALSO found W. H. Smith's personal breastplate !!!  Those were some wonderful days !!!--$325.

  166. Absolutely drop dead perfect and beautiful non-excavated coat size Confederate stippled Old English "E" (Engineer).  This button literally has 100 % bright gold gilt - "H. T. & B. - Manchester" Backmark - and shank straight and intact.  It is "CS153A" in Albert.   I recently saw one of these sell for $2,000. - and was not one bit nicer than this one.--$1,450.

  167. This just came into the shop yesterday - dark blue Federal frock coat that dates BARELY into the Indian War Era rather than Civil War.  This frock coat has a "raw edge" around the bottom, has a low 1 1/2 inch stand-up collar, and has 8 inches across the elbow sleeves, which are all good Civil War traits.  It does, however, have the pin striped sleeve liner, and also has raised shield Indian War era buttons.  This frock coat literally misses being Civil War by "maybe" 5 to 10 years, and is going to look great on a maniquin all decked out with equipment !!--$650.

  168. Beautiful condition, Model 1858, smooth type, Federal canteen complete with cover, sling, and stopper with chain.  The cover and sling are hand-sewn with very faded but legible stenciling, "12th NY - Co. I".  This canteen, cover, and sling is nice enough for any museum.--$425.

  169. Quite rare, Model 1862, Merrill Navy rifle, brass handle saber bayonet.  This bayonet has an extremely long blade of around 25 inches.  The cast brass guard is marked with a "G" and a serial number of 2341.  The blade has a dark brown patina with some pitting and appears to be an attic find.--$275.

  170. Very pretty condition, .58 cal., Model 1864, regulation issue, Federal leather cartridge box.  The cartridge box has both iron roller buckles intact as well as closure tab and both belt loops on the reverse.  The inside flap is double marked.  One is "US Ord. Dept.", and the second mark is "R. Nece Philad."  The leather overall remains quite pliable.  It does need a nice set of cartridge tins to really make it super nice.--$395.

  171. Beautiful condition, original brown leather waist belt with large oval, 1840 - 1850 era, puppy-paw hook, lead-filled oval with "W. H. Smith Brooklyn" backmark.  The belt remains pliable as can be, and the "W. H. Smith Brooklyn" backmark is clear as a bell.--$695.

  172. Excellent condition, excavated, Federal Eagle breast plate recovered about 40 years ago on private property here at Stones River by my old hunting buddy, Wade Buchanan.  You could pretty much put this one back on and wear it.--$225.

  173. Very nice condition, 1850 - 1870 era, Militia or Cadet waist belt rig.  The leather belt remains in nice condition but does have one old break that has been repaired.  The buckle is a cast brass frame style and has a brass tip that covers the end of the leather belt.  This is a very nice looking belt rig that could have seen either CS or US service.--$395.

  174. Large size, 1840 - 1850 era, puppy paw hook, lead-filled US oval on original black leather belt.  This belt remains strong enough that you could literally put it on and wear it.--$595.

  175. Very nice condition, excavated, dropped, Confederate used, imported, long pattern, 3-inch Armstrong projectile.  What make these shells different and stand out are the large copper studs that are imbedded in the shell that engage the rifling upon firing.  This projectile was recovered many years ago near Wilmington, North Carolina, and to this day, remains rusty and dirty just as found.  These are only found in a relatively small area and are quite rare to recover.--$695.

  176. Very nice condition, excavated, dropped, Confederate used, imported, short pattern, 3-inch Armstrong projectile.  What make these shells different and stand out are the large copper studs that are imbedded in the shell that engage the rifling upon firing.  This projectile was recovered many years ago near Wilmington, North Carolina, and to this day, remains rusty and dirty just as found.  These are only found in a relatively small area and are quite rare to recover.--$695.

  177. Beautiful condition, non-excavated, stamped brass "Arrow" which is the 17th Federal Army Corps.  It has solder marks remaining on the back where the attachment wires once were, but they are not present.  This is a corps badge that you do not often encounter.--$425.

  178. Beautiful condition, stamped silver, 5th Corps "Maltese Cross".  This pin still has the "T-bar" attachment device intact.  The cross has the initials "H - I - N" engraved on the points of the star.  I'm not exactly sure what organization this stands for.  Silver 5th Corps badges rarely come along for sale.--$395.

  179. Extremely rare, 100% gold gilted, Confederate Staff Officer CS36A1.  I don't see how this button could possibly be any nicer.  The face is flawless with 100% bright gold gilt, and the reverse remains perfect as well and is marked, "H. T. & B. Manchester".  This is a Confederate button that you will NEVER, EVER need to upgrade.--$1,150.

  180. Extremely rare "Boyle and Gamble" - Richmond, Virginia, Confederate Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard.  The sword remains in very nice condition with full engraving down both sides of the blade with the "CSA in shield" completely readable in the blade engraving.  The cast brass guard with "CS" in the wreath with the star above is in excellent condition with a rich, aged patina.  The sword has the original wrap and wire on the grip, and it has 95% of the original leather intact.  The sword has been in this leather scabbard since the Civil War Era, but the scabbard is a Civil War date import rather than a Boyle and Gamble product.  The original scabbard was likely damaged.  This Confederate Officer's sword and scabbard is nice enough for about any museum and would be a fine addition to any Confederate collection.--$9,850.

  181. Extremely rare and in very nice condition, Confederate manufacture, short Artillery sword.  This style unmarked Confederate sword is a product of "E. J. Johnston & Company" of Macon, Georgia.  This company provided the Confederacy with many different types and models of edged weapons.  A few of the weapons of this type are actually maker marked, but far and away most are unmarked.  This example has a nice, clean blade, gently darkening with age, and the classic concentric ring cast brass guard that has a rich, aged never cleaned patina.  This is a nicer example than what most museums have.--$1,895.

  182. Model 1855, .58 cal., Federal cartridge box with an extremely rare “NHSM” (New Hampshire State Militia) cartridge box plate.  The box remains reasonably pliable with both iron roller buckles intact and both belt loops on the reverse.   New Hampshire State Militia boxes are believed to have mostly stayed within the State of New Hampshire during the Civil War years as only a handful have been recovered from camp sites and battlefields outside the state.  This is a very rare cartridge box that most collections are missing.--$850.

  183. Very pretty excavated coat size Confederate "C" (Cavalry) button.  This was recovered from a Confederate Cavalry camp located near Sayler's Creek, VA.  It has a slick brown patina with shank intact, and is backmarked "Superior Quality".--$425.

  184. Very nice condition, regulation issue, large oval, "Puppy Paw" hook pattern, US waist buckle on original issue black leather belt.  The belt remains in nice condition with an inspector's cartouche and brass adjustor still intact.  The original percussion cap box remains on the belt and still has the nipple pick inside.  Also on the belt is a nice condition, .69 cal., Model 1842 Springfield or Harpers Ferry triangular socket bayonet in original leather scabbard.  This belt rig is nicer than most that you see on display in the museums.--$1,250.

  185. Very attractive and quite hard to find, original Model 1855, .58 cal., cartridge box with original box plate and the over-the-shoulder sling and the original breast plate intact.  The cartridge box remains pliable with both cartridge tins intact inside.  Complete Infantry rigs life this one are difficult to come by.  The cartridge box is "Condict New York" maker marked.--$1,150.

  186. Beautiful, perfect condition excavated wreath portion of a Civil War State Seal Officer's tongue and wreath buckle.  This is the correct wreath for several different State Seals, and is also correct for several different eagle 2-Piece militia sword belt plates.  Here is your chance to finish out that Virginia, South Carolina, Georgia, or even Kentucky 2-Piece sword belt plate.--$850.SOLD

  187. Original, .69 cal., Harpers Ferry musket that has been converted from flintlock to percussion and shortened from full musket to carbine length for service on horseback.  The Southern Confederacy had far more Cavalry than they had actual Cavalry carbines to arm them.  In order to arm the large numbers of Southern Cavalry, many full length infantry muskets were shortened to carbine length so that they could be used on horseback.  This is a perfect example of that and is out of a deep south estate.  I have no doubt that this .69 cal. Harpers Ferry loaded full of "buck and ball" would have been plenty deadly.  This is a weapon that you can hear "Dixie" coming out of the barrel from across the room!!!--$895.

  188. Beautiful condition, excavated, solid cast brass, coat size CSA.  This button was recovered about 35 years ago from a Confederate camp near Fredericksburg, Virginia.  It has a smooth, brown/green patina with shank intact.--$595.

  189. Very pretty, excavated, coat size, Mississippi "I" (Infantry).  This button was recovered about 50 years ago from Camp Withers which was a Mississippi Brigade camp located along the Elk River here in Middle Tennessee and occupied during 1862.  This button is slick as can be with gold around each letter, around the star, and completely filling the "I" in the center.  It has the normal "Hyde & Goodrich - NO" backmark.  This is an artifact that will be a compliment to any collection.--$595.

  190. Absolutely SMOKINGLY BEAUTIFUL excavated GILTED coat size Confederate 23mm "CS-7" Staff Officer's button.  This is a truly fantastic button with a "W. Dowler/Superior Quality" backmark.  It has the shank intact, and was recovered many years ago from a Confederate camp near Fairfax, VA.  In an entire Relic Hunting career, you will be able to count on your fingers the number of Confederate buttons that you recover this nice.--$875.

  191. Beautiful condition and SUPER RARE, "early production" Nashville Plow Works, Confederate Cavalry Officer's saber and scabbard.  This Nashville Plow has the capstan nut at the pommel cap which is a carryover trait from the Sharps and Hamilton production sabers from this Nashville facility.  From what I can learn, there are less than twenty of these early production Nashville Plows surviving.  It is very likely this example is one of the top three in condition.  The scabbard has a smooth, uncleaned, chocolate patina with classic brass mounts and "canoe shaped brass throat".  The grip retains original leather, and the blade is complete and very nice with a gently aging, gray/brown patina.  This is the hand selected Nashville Plow Works Cavalry Officer's saber out of Dr. Joe Boyd's personal collection and is his personal pick out of nearly 50 years looking.  It is very possible that you will never see an early production Nashville Plow in this condition for sale again.--$14,850.SOLD

  192. Absolutely beautiful condition, nicely gilted, excavated LA8 Confederate local, coat size Louisiana State Seal uniform button.  This button was recovered about 40 years ago from a Confederate Louisiana camp site located near Tullahoma, Tennessee.  It is a smoking beauty with shank intact.--$475.

  193. Very nice condition, Model 1864, Federal belt rig complete with belt, US buckle and brass keeper, US marked percussion cap box with percussion caps still inside, and very nice condition, Model 1864, .58 cal. cartridge box with embossed US oval, "Oliver - PA." makers mark, and original tins inside.  It is rare now to find a Federal belt rig complete with both boxes.--$1,250.

  194. This was brought in by a local family that had an ancestor that served in the Confederate Cavalry.  The weapon is an import single shot horse pistol with a Southern conversion hammer like you have NEVER seen before.  The horse pistol has a hand crafted Southern lanyard ring to boot.  Hold this jewel up to your ear and all you hear is "Dixie" playing.--$895.

  195. Extremely rare, Leech & Rigdon, Memphis, Tennessee, Confederate manufactured Foot Officer's sword.  This is the Confederate sword along with a partial leather scabbard.  The blade remains clean, just beginning to darken with age.  It has the typical Confederate unstopped fuller.  The cast brass guard is 100% Memphis Novelty Works all the way with the distinctive Leech & Rigdon Officer's sword motif on both top and bottom.  This is a super rare Confederate Officer's sword, and in nearly 50 years, I could count the number of these that I have had on my two hands.  Better not let this one get away, because it could be many years before you see another one.--$5,950.

  196. Beautiful photographic estate of Lt. Dan McConnell of the 99th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  In this grouping is a crystal clear, fully cased, 1/6th plate tintype of Lt. McConnell.  This is a bust view, seated waist up, showing his frock coat, shoulder straps, and kepi with French Horn Infantry hat insignia.  Together with excellent military photograph of Lt. McConnell, there is additionally a fully cased 1/9th plate ambrotype of Lt. McConnell in civilian clothing.  In addition to these pictures is a half-cased ambrotype of Lt. McConnell in civilian clothing with his wife.  Also, there is a 1/6th plate ambrotype of Lt. McConnell's mother in a half-case.  In addition, there is a 1/9th plate ambrotype of a baby which we assume to be his child.  The 99th Ohio served all through Tennessee being at Stones River, Chickamauga, the drive toward Atlanta, and the Battles of Franklin and Nashville.  I purchased this group directly out of the family just days ago.--$495. for the entire five photograph estate.

  197. Very nice condition, Model 1851, Federal Cavalry belt rig with original buff belt and original cast-brass, Model 1851, Eagle sword belt plate with applied silver wreath.  The buff, leather belt is complete and remains soft and pliable with no breaks or repairs.  The cast-brass Eagle sword belt plate has a rich, aged patina with the silver wreath remaining 100% intact.  This is a nicer than usual Federal Cavalry belt rig.--$695.

  198. Absolutely beautiful condition large size lead filled S.N.Y. (State of New York) waist belt plate on the original arsenal black leather waist belt with the brass adjuster remaining intact.  They just don't get nicer than this one is, and any museum would be pleased to have it.--$1,150.

  199. Excellent condition small size pre-Civil War "militia" canteen complete with original butternut wool cover, and original linen sling.  This canteen has the original "tin spout" intact.  We recover remnants of these canteens in the 1863 Army of Tennessee Confederate winter camps here.  They are almost exclusively found in Confederate sites.  The canteen remains in excellent, museum grade condition.--$795.

  200. Beautiful condition, "Haiman" style, Confederate Dog River Cavalry saber and scabbard.  This saber is the is the style manufactured in Georgia by Haiman and has a very nice, never cleaned, unstopped fuller Confederate blade and a high copper content Confederate made guard and pommel cap.  The grip remains 100% intact and still has the original single strand copper wire.  The scabbard is a classic 1840 import and has had the rings and drag brass painted many years ago.  You couldn't ask for a prettier Confederate made Cavalry saber and iron scabbard.  This saber was on display in a museum for several years.--$2,950.

  201. Model 1860 Federal light Cavalry saber that was just brought in out of the local area and was believed to have been Confederate carried.  The saber is maker marked "Mansfield & Lamb" and is dated "1864".  The saber's brass guard  is clearly bent in a manner definately indicating that the horse went down On The Brass Saber Guard at least once.  The saber is a Model 1860, but the scabbard is a Model 1840 likely because the scabbard was damaged when the horse went down.  Here is your saber if you are looking for one that saw action, and has a story to tell !!--$895.

  202. Just brought in by a local family, and is 100% untouched.  This is a very nice hand-me-down Confederate local made "CS DOG RIVER" Cavalry saber and scabbard.  The blade has a pretty gently greying aged patina, and the brass guard has a thick - never touched - brown patina.  The grip is down to the wood with only a few fragments of the leather and single strands of iron wire.  The scabbard is a classic lap seamed - brass mounted CS made scabbard.  This is a very nice, straight out of the Southern estate and untouched for the last 150 years, Confederate manufactured, "Dog River" CS Cavalry saber and scabbard.--$3,850.

  203. Just in, a blacksmith-made, 17 inch, Confederate side knife constructed using the blade of a College Hill Armory Confederate Cavalry saber.  The brass pommel cap appears to be from an imported Cavalry Officer's saber.  This is a classic example of Confederates creating weapons from what they had.  The blade has the distinctive College Hill "pen knife" traits.--$850.

  204. Very nice, excavated, large oval, fat letter pattern, "SNY" (State of New York) oval waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered in 1973 near Salem Church, Virginia.  It has full, smooth lead, and all three attachment hooks remain perfectly intact.--$895.

  205. This ranks as one of the absolute rarest and most sought after Confederate Officer's sword of the American Civil War.  It is a superb Firmin & Sons "Dolphin Head" Confederate Naval Officer's sword and is THE VERY ONE pictured in Albaugh's book, Photograph Supplement of Confederate Swords.  It is pictured on pages 78 - 80 and is attributed to John McIntosh Kell, Executive Officer of the CSS Alabama.  This sword is in excellent overall condition with amazing, fine etching including a Confederate Flag and crossed cannons.  The grip is shark skin and remains completely intact.  This sword comes with a professionally made contemporary replacement scabbard that is perfect in every detail.  With this sword comes a framed family albumin photograph of John McIntosh Kell.  Civil War relics just do not get much better than this.  It has been in a local collection for many years.--$35,000.

  206. Very nice condition, complete Federal waist belt rig including original waist belt, original .58 cal. cartridge box, and the original percussion cap box.  The belt itself remains complete and pliable with a beautiful arrow-hook pattern US oval waist belt buckle, and the brass length adjustor remains perfectly intact.  The cartridge box is a Model 1864 with embossed “US” and both cartridge tins remaining intact on the inside.  The leather percussion cap box has both belt loops and closure tab intact and has an embossed “US” mark on the outside flap.  There are quite a number of original percussion caps remaining inside.  This belt rig was on display in an Arkansas museum for a number of years and would be an excellent addition to any Civil War collection.--$1,250.

  207. Very nice condition, flat or corner curio display case.  The case remains in very nice condition, is lighted, and has three shelves.  It stands approximately six feet tall, two feet wide, and one foot deep.--$325.

  208. Just in, and purchased directly from the family  - Smoking nice Confederate Cavalry estate belonging to Daniel Francis Taylor of Wayne County Mississippi.  Wayne County is located just North of Mobile , Alabama.  In this estate is a drop dead beautiful Atlanta style rectangle C.S.A. waist belt buckle on the original brown pig-skin belt.  The buckle has a rich aged patina, and wide tooth file marks all the way around it.  There is a fully cased, crystal clear 1/6th plate tintype of Daniel pictured holding his unstopped fuller "Dog River" Confederate Cavalry Saber.  The actual "Dog River Factory" was nearly within walking distance of his home !!!  In the image Daniel is wearing a Model 1851 Federal Cavalry Sword Belt rig which is also still with the estate.  His brass cased compass is with the estate, and still works perfectly.  There are two additional photographs in the estate.  One is an ambrotype of his Dad, and the other image is an ambrotype of a young lady and a wedding ring is with it.  I feel sure that is his wife.  There is also a bullet mold, and a powder horn that are attributed on a tag to being his.  Forty years ago I used to have family groupings like this brought in quite often, but that era is "Gone With The Wind" - and it is a once in a year or more thing anymore to get a really nice Confederate estate like this.  You are not going to see a nicer thick Atlanta style C.S.A. on pigskin than this one.--$7,850. For The Entire Estate.SOLD

  209. Really nice reproduction US Model 1840 short Mountain Howitzer on a very nicely crafted white oak carriage.  The barrel is 33 inches in length with a bore of 2.5 inches.  The carriage is 80 inches tip to tip in length, 49 inches wide, and 43 inches high.  The owner has fired the cannon with powder and wadding only numerous times.  This will be a beautiful piece to display under a gazebo in front of an Antebellum home.--$7,500.  You pick it up here or we can likely arrange delivery for a fee.

  210. 40 volumes of UCV magazines nicely bound by the year and including 1893 - 1932 with 3 volumes of indexes.  I have found the Confederate Veterans magazines to be an excellent research source.  We are offering this complete set of bound UCV magazines for less than $19 per volume.--$750.

  211. Super rare, original die - counter die - and cut out die for the scarcest Sheridan Cavalry Corps badge.  These items have been in an old New England collection for many, many years.  They were originally purchased from Bannermann's Island, and I was able to purchase them as part of settling the estate.  I really don't have a clue how to price this, as in over 50 years - I have never seen one of these offered for sale.  SO -- I am just going to take a guess, and this price very well may be less than 50% of this group's actual value.--$1,500.

  212. A few days ago - April 10th, 2017 - was one of life's very best days.  My 3rd granddaughter (Isabella Rose) was born to my younger daughter Savannah Cynthia and her husband Luke.  Isabella Rose was born at 1:10 p.m. weighing 7 lbs. 11 oz. and was 19 1/4" long.  She appears very healthy and has a head full of dark brown hair.  To me, she looks like a near exact duplicate of her older sister, Lila Magnolia.  The birth went perfectly, and we hope to have both coming home soon.  Lila is very proud of her new baby sister, and we hope that sentiment lasts.

  213. lilapic1.JPG (83855 bytes)lila2poppy.JPG (18033 bytes)lila3asleep.JPG (20264 bytes)lila5profpic.png (771077 bytes)lila5wrapped.jpeg (262144 bytes)lila4andmomhosp.JPG (141046 bytes)lila6reaction.JPG (23590 bytes)lila7goodmorning.jpg (65573 bytes)lila8happytues.jpg (59827 bytes)lili10pinksocks.JPG (26317 bytes)lila11withana.JPG (27622 bytes)lili12cheerldr.JPG (93658 bytes)savannahcheer.JPG (36520 bytes)lila13easterbunny.JPG (118941 bytes)lilasheep.JPG (27660 bytes)lilasthrnbell.JPG (28647 bytes)lilakitchen.jpg (37664 bytes)lilainstrawberries.JPG (702058 bytes) volcheerleader.JPG (647692 bytes)Meet "Lila Magnolia Blackwelder" !!!  She is my younger daughter - Savannah Cynthia and her husband - Luke Blackwelder's first child.  She was born December 4, 2013 at 3:25 pm weighing 7 pounds 4 ounces and was 19 3/4 inches long.  She was born with a head full of dark brown hair and a fine set of lungs.  She has a wonderful disposition, and loves to smile and giggle.  I plan to do my best to spoil her beyond belief !!!!

  214. annasoccer.JPG (39064 bytes)poppyana&rachJPG.JPG (253237 bytes)anastasiaschool.JPG (25834 bytes)larrya.jpg (610641 bytes)NEW PICTURE !!!  Guess who is celebrating 1 year old today ??  Yep -- "Lady A - Anastasia" .  I  just got back from Houston, TX. visiting my first "Grandchild - Lady-A" {Anastasia}.  She is an absolute little doll and has everyone wrapped around her tiny, little finger.  She has arrived at the conclusion - "If I'm awake, somebody best be holding me if you know what's good for you" -- {otherwise I'll give you the business} !!!  She and I have a lot in common -- Two of our favorite things on earth to do is "Eat and Sleep" !!!!  Jonathan {the pup} is a wonderful "Big Brother" -- As a matter of fact - He has a little sweater that has "Only Child" crossed out and "Big Brother" written beneath it.  She is something like 11 months old and already weighs 23 lbs. -- Texas thing I'm told !!!   {Make that "5 YEARS" old now !!!!}  WOW --- Time sure gets away !!!!  And now ANOTHER year !!!!   I'm getting SOOO old, but beats the alternative !!!

  215. forrestprint.JPG (71374 bytes)Beautiful and tough to come by 1973 print of General Nathan Bedford Forrest that was done by the Sons of Confederate Veterans over 30 years ago.  The print is BIG measuring 24 inches by 30 inches before framing and is absolutely breathtaking once it's matted and framed.  I seldom get these in anymore.--$89.
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Middle Tennessee Relics
Larry Hicklen
Shop:  (615) 893-3470
Email: larryhicklen@comcast.net