NEW ITEMS

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1. This is probably the absolute most common Civil War artifact that you are going to find, but I never grow tired of seeing that .58 cal., three-ring Minie ball lying in the dirt.  You have to realize that the last guy that held that bullet was right in the middle of the American Civil War!!

2. As the water hunting season winds down, our good buddy, Steve Maloney, had an excellent day in the water.  He recovered a circular, Federal, Eagle breast plate and an excellent 10 pounder size Federal Parrott projectile.  Within the next few days, the water temperature will no doubt drop to a very uncomfortable level!!  Way to go, Steve!!!

3. Even though our cousin, BREWER HICKLEN, #53 - Atlanta Braves, is 30 years old -- He can still run !!  He tied the game last night on a dive for home.  Pull it up and watch it !!!  Pretty Amazing !!!  GO BRAVES !!!  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DqSUByJGT/?mibextid=wwXIfr--BRAVES ARE POST-SEASON BOUND!!!

4. I doubt that we would have very many "trick-or-treaters" at our side door!!  It is all clear now though.

5. A thunderstorm at the cabin on the mountaintop is something special to behold.  The fact that you are literally in the thunderstorm clouds makes everything more instant and dramatic.  In this case, a lightning bolt shot down from the sky striking a massive oak tree.  It sounded like a nuclear explosion, and the tree lit up like filament in a light bulb.  The huge oak tree is now just a splintered shaft with massive limbs scattered 30 - 40 yards in every direction.  We are told that the lightning and crashing thunder were literally both together.  We have a neighbor closer to the tree that was struck who lost his TV, computer, fireplace blower, and alarm system.  Mother nature can certainly come alive when she feels like it!!  When I was a child on the farm, a similar cloud came up, and a lightning bolt hit a tree that had eleven cows standing under it killing every last one.  Also, my Grandfather walked out on the porch to take a look at an oncoming thunderstorm when a single lightning bolt struck their house, killing him.  So, as you might guess, I am VERY scared of lightning!!  Jackson and Olivia were at the cabin and took these pictures.

6. Congrats to our young friends, Jackson and Olivia, (visiting us from Ohio) who just minutes ago made this killer nice find.  It is a .57 cal. Enfield triangular socket bayonet.  It was lost by the Confederate Army of Tennessee the first week of August, 1863, just down the road from our cabin and on the way to the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia.  The original military road that the Army of Tennessee used passes by just feet from the cabin.  Over 70,000 soldiers (Union and Confederate) walked this road.  Over the last 25 years, we have been fortunate to find a couple of thousand artifacts they left behind.

7. IMPORTANT --- IF THERE IS ANYONE OUT THERE WHO HAS A RELATIVE BURIED IN THE CEMETERY HERE AT STONES RIVER, AND WOULD LIKE A CURRENT PICTURE OF THE GRAVE - JUST SEND ME THE NAME AND GRAVE LOCATION, AND I WILL BE GLAD TO GET IT DONE FOR YOU !!

8. This is my youngest Granddaughter, Isabella Rose, and I do believe that she has the "Collector Gene".  She is collecting both old and new baseball cards, and currently the Atlanta Braves is her team.  If any of you guys have any baseball cards from when you were young, I would love to buy them from you to encourage her collecting endeavor.  Who knows - one of these days, the sign in front of the shop might read, "Belle's Baseball Cards and Civil War Relics"!!!  I had all girls, and my girls have had all girls, but there is hope!!!

9. I want to send everyone my most sincere "Thank-You" for all of your support for Belle and her baseball card collecting.  She is as excited as if it were Christmas morning!!  I really do appreciate your helping hands, and I guarantee the cards will be well cared for.  Now, if I can somehow get a Civil War interest that strong worked into the program, we will be set!!!

10. We would like to congratulate the young winner of our latest Youth Relic Giveaway.  This display of artifacts goes to Shaun Permar of Souderton, Pennsylvania, and consists of a very nice selection of excavated Civil War bullets and buttons.  Our hope is that this will contribute to a life long interest in collecting Civil War memorabilia.  This relic display is compliments of our good buddy, Joseph Pulice, up in Hudson, New York.  We send our heart-felt thanks to Joe.

11. We would like to send our congratulations to Castibelle Schweinfurth as the winner of our most recent Youth Relic Giveaway.  Castibelle won an original, fully cased, 1/9th plate Civil War tintype of a young Union Soldier.  We thank Joe Pulice for supplying this Youth Giveaway artifact.  We all hope it will inspire Castibelle to further interest in the Civil War Era.  We appreciate you, Joe!

12. Really pretty display of quality Civil War artifacts that in about a month we are going to draw a youngster's name, and present them with this superb display of REALLY NICE Civil War artifacts.  We invite all youngsters 14 years of age and younger to drop us a letter in the mail telling us "why you'd like to win" this display.  In the center of the display is a beautiful solid cast brass Confederate block "I" (Infantry) uniform button.  There is also a fired Whitworth Confederate sniper rifle projectile.  This display is the curtesy on Mr. Mark Cole, who like myself, wants to encourage our youth to be interested in preserving our Civil War past.  If you have won one of our contests in the past - "it does not matter".  THIS IS A WHOLE NEW DAY, AND EVERY YOUNGSTER IS ELIGIBLE !!!  A HUGE "THANK YOU" MARK !!!  PLEASE SEND YOUR LETTER TO:                                                                                            LARRY HICKLEN= 3511 OLD NASHVILLE HWY.= MURFREESBORO, TN. = 37129         BEST OF LUCK EVERYONE !!!

13. What a treat it was to have our young friends, Jackson Ambrose and Olivia Krapovich come down from Ohio and spend some time and relic hunt with us.  Last time they were down, we were fortunate enough to hit one hole that held nearly 100 Confederate bullets.  I was afraid that following a hunt like that might be somewhat of a let down.  These two young folks are tough as nails.  It did not matter one bit that the spring water was a bone chilling 58 degrees - in they went -- and hunted for some thing like 2 hours in there.  They did have a really pretty "smurf-like" blue color when they came out !!!  Jackson scored a beautiful lead filled Artillery rosette.  Interestingly, I had recovered a matching artillery rosette and two eagle "A" buttons nearby on land about 20 years ago !!!  I hope these are lifetime memories for Liv and Jack !!!!

14. Check out our new "kitty-cat" at the mountain cabin.  I think he will be a sure enough good mouse catcher!!  I believe he is a little older than most that we have seen, because bobcats are generally more slender.  This guy is quite "beefy" and could give most things a really tough time!!

15. Well Guys -- I have finally reached a landmark that I have "wondered" how it would feel for a long time.  I am "entering" my "50-th year" of being "open for business" here at "YESTERYEAR - MIDDLE TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR RELICS" at the BATTLE OF STONES RIVER - MURFREESBORO, TENNESSEE !!!  I have so completely enjoyed helping get folks started researching, saving relics, collecting, relic hunting, and generally loving preserving Civil War History that the time has flown.  Some of my proudest moments are (1) Back in 1972, I had just graduated college at MTSU, with a degree in Chemistry, and was interviewing for a job - pretty much all Chemistry jobs when out of the blue, I get a call from the Principal of Ringgold High School, Ringgold, Georgia.  The Math/Chemistry teacher had become seriously ill, and had to resign.  He explained to me how many young lives would be impacted.  I had not had ONE education course in my entire life, but he explained to me that he could get me a one year "Emergency Teacher Certificate".  The "impacting young lives" thing stuck with me.  I accepted the teaching job, and was off to Ringgold, GA.  Once there, the coaches there learned that I had played baseball in highschool years, and they were missing a baseball coach, and for an extra $50. per month - I became "Coach Hicklen" !!  I was already Relic Hunting, and loving Civil War history by this point, and some of the students/baseball players began on weekends going with me, and looking for Relics.  It didn't hurt that "The Battle of Ringgold Gap", and a portion of "The Battle of Chickamauga" fell on farms owned by families of some of my students.  One of my students (Keith Rowland) - who was also on the baseball team, and loved relic hunting so much that he got his Dad into it, and they hunted together for many years.  Many years later Keith thanked me for introducing him to Relic Hunting.  He said that he was heading down some wrong roads, and he credits Relic Hunting for turning his focus around !!  Now THAT makes you "HAPPY" !!  And, then there was this "Muddy Boot" young student from MTSU that had to show me the .69 cal three ring bullets he had just found.  I liked the newly recovered .69 cal. three ringers very well, but what I REALLY LIKED was this young man's  EXTREME LOVE AND ENTHUSIASM of collecting and the era.  This young man was "RAFAEL ELEDGE", and in no time I realized this young man had every last thing he needed to "EXCELL" in what we do.  I hope he and Catherine know that I could not be more proud of them !!!!  And Well - that brings us to tonight.  This coming year will close out 50 years of being "OPEN" (although the last few have been by appointment, and "online".  I am announcing my intention to "Completely Retire" at the "end" of this coming year -- (2026).  I am hoping that gives me a few years to just chill, dig a few relics, fish a little, and get into trouble with the grandbabies !!!!  My Love, and Thanks to everyone For A Mighty Fine Life, and my most sincere thanks to God for Placing in my life All The Wonderful People That He Has, and for the gifts and abilities that he has richly blessed me !!!!  LOVE YOU GUYS, AND DO MEAN IT !!!!!

16. WHAT A FUN, FUN TIME WE HAD AT THE CIVIL WAR SHOW AT FRANKLIN, TN THIS PAST WEEK-END !!!  IT WAS SO GREAT GETTING TO SEE EVERYONE, AND NOT TO MENTION THE THOUSANDS OF GREAT CIVIL WAR RELICS !!!  I MOST HUMBLY THANK THE MANY OF YOU FOR THE KIND WORDS, AND CONDOLENCES RELATING TO MY DAD'S RECENT PASSING.  I CAN PROMISE IT REALLY DOES HELP CALM A HURTING HEART - ONCE AGAIN "THANK YOU" !!!  -----  (NOW PASSED -12-6-25 and 12-7-25) ---- VERY - VERY IMPORTANT !!!  IT IS "CIVIL WAR SHOW AND SALE TIME" IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE !!!  OUR 38TH ANNUAL "MIDDLE TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SHOW AND SALE" WILL BE HELD THIS WEEKEND (DEC. 6, AND DEC. 7, 2025) AT THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY AG. CENTER LOCATED JUST SOUTH OF FRANKLIN, TN AT THE GOOSE CREEK EXIT OFF OF INTERSTATE I-65.  THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST SHOWS OF THE ENTIRE YEAR FEATURING APPROXIMATELY 800 TABLES OF THE FINEST "REV. WAR - CIVIL WAR - & WWII" ARTIFACTS IN EXISTANCE TODAY !!!  THE SHOW WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC SAT. (DEC. 6) 9 AM - 5 PM, AND SUN. (DEC. 7) 9 AM -3:00 PM.  PLEASE COME BY MY TABLES, AND "SAY - HELLO" !!!  I WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU !!!  THIS SHOW IS ALWAYS SO MUCH FUN !!!  I'M WALKING OUT THE DOOR, AND HEADED TO THE SHOW -- HOPE TO SEE YOU GUYS THERE !!!

    "Today" (now a number of days in the past) was the day that I have dreaded my entire life.  The "ACTUAL" day that I have to say "GOOD BYE" to my dear old Dad.  I stayed in the hospital room with him last night following his massive heart attack a couple days ago.  At 8:17 AM this morning (Wed.- 11/19/2025) at the age of "94 years -7 months and 27 days", I watched as Dad took his last breath.  Part of me "celebrated" that Dad was free of all the pain and suffering of this world, BUT, a HUGE part of me was "deeply grieving" that I had just lost one of the two people THAT I 1000% KNEW HAD MY BACK SINCE THE DAY I WAS BORN !!  I first want to say thank you to all our friends and relatives for the condolences, support, and well wishes.  It really does make a difference.  I thought I was ready to say goodbye and send Dad along to a place where there is no more pain and suffering.  It turns out that no matter how prepared you think you are, the reality is, you are not ready.I have full faith that in due time I will see him again, --- and he will be healthy, happy, and, as always, hard at work !!!!  He has crossed over the river, and is resting in the shade of the trees on the other side.  If I could have one wish in this world - It would be that everyone might have parents as loving and supportive as I have been blessed with !!!  On one final note - THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE, AND SUPPORT !!! To my Civil War buddies (Rafael Eledge - Steve and Nancy Norman - Kevin Cummings - Tom Ivery - Josh Rinehart -Wayne and Pat Bryan - Ralph and Candy Abbruzzee - John and Nikki Walsh, and to any others my poor fried mind can't think of -- You guys really helped me get through one of the absolute toughest days of my life !!!  LOVE YOU GUYS - MEAN IT !!!

17. Today ranks right up there with one of my tougher days ever. My 94 year old Dad had a bad heart attack a couple days ago, and I spent last night in the hospital with him. I was able to talk with him last night, but this morning he was breathing, and heart still beating, but barely - and could not be aroused. The tests showed that he had only 20 % heart function remaining, and it is about time for him to cross over to the other side. I have picked out my two songs for him - One by my friend Josh Turner - "Two Stepping On The Moon" ( in honor of Mom and Dad Going Dancing Every Week For Over Twenty Years), and Vince Gill's "Go Rest High On The Mountain". Dad was not perfect - nor are any of the rest of us, but he tried his hardest to provide for us, and always was supportive - even when he had serious doubts. 50 years ago I was a Chemist at Textron, and I decided to give that up, and open a Civil War Store. He had SERIOUS doubts about giving up a Chemistry job to start selling Civil War Bullets. He asked if I was SURE that was what I wanted to do. I told him "yes", and we started work remodeling the old grocery store !!! He has been a good Dad !!! (This picture was taken for their 70th Wedding Anniversary - in just a few days, they will have been married for 75 years!)

18. Just when you think all of the really good finds have about been made, we find nearly 100 bullets in one hole, and this past Sunday, our young friend, Kyle Mullicane, made a killer find up near the cabin.  Kyle's father-in-law, Terry Parks, built our cabin, and his daughter and Kyle had their wedding pictures made there.  Kyle has only been relic hunting a few months and found a complete Civil War revolver off the old road up on the mountain.  The revolver is a .31 cal., IXL (which looks like an Adams patent).  The revolver was pretty much a giant hunk of rust when it came out of the ground, and after some electrolysis, is now taking shape.  Lots of old time relic hunters have never found a complete revolver.  (The fifth picture represents a similar pistol in original condition.)  Just goes to prove, there are still some good finds left to be made if you're willing to work hard and get out there.  We send huge congratulations to Kyle for his find!!!

19. It was SO MUCH FUN watching the excitement of Liv and Jack pulling the Confederate bullets out right and left !!! I enjoyed watching them far more than digging them myself. There is a really interesting "back story" as to why these bullets were there. Nita and I hunted this section of the old military road literally 20 years ago. The BIG oak tree had recently fallen at that point in time. The top section of the tree was roughly 40 feet across and so thick that you could not begin to get inside that area to hunt. When I noticed how decayed the top of that massive tree was (now, 20 years later), it crossed my mind that we had never been able to hunt the area inside the fallen tree. I took two steps inside what had been a dense forest of oak tree branches and got a signal about the size of a car hood. The F-75 was literally screaming "good signal". I detuned my detector and realized the single massive signal was actually an accumulative signal. In the same area, we had found several dropped spills of bullets in the past. They were there because of eight straight days of falling rain. In multiple diaries, I had read about the Confederate Army of Tennessee having to discard ammunition due to being soaked. Some of the "spills" that we recovered years ago included one hole found by our good buddy Jeff Havner of 163 imported Enfields along with their percussion caps. Most of these were 57 base marked and also numerous "L" for London base. Another hole had 68 Enfields, and a hole Nita found had 25 sets of buck and ball. Our friend, Kent Brothers hit a hole with 38 - .54 cal. Minies for the Mississippi rifle. We feel certain all of these spills were the result of the pouring rain. The same diaries made mention of the wagons miring up to the hubs in mud. Nita and I found one of the massive iron wheel edgings that broke due to miring up in the mud. It took us two trips to get this thing up the mountain.  We eventually made a display from it filling the entire inside area with the relics we found on the road near it. At this point in time, it is quite a rarity to recover near 100 individual pieces in one hole.

20. How cool is this !!!!  In a resently released study, Tennessee has been named as one of the best places in the nation to live and raise a family.  In the same study Williamson County (my home county) has been named the best county in the state to live and raise a family, AND "NOLENSVILLE" (MY HOME TOWN) HAS BEEN NAMED THE BEST CITY IN TENNESSEE TO LIVE !!  This is based on quality of life - education - sports - health institutes - safety - jobs - home values -etc.  I'm very proud of Tennessee, and our conservative "VOLUNTEER" way of life !!!  I DO LOVE ME SOME "GOOD OLD ROCKY TOP" !!!!

21. The hot, dog days of summer are gradually transitioning into fall.  The critters in our water garden seem to be mostly lounging around and taking it easy.  As night comes on now, there is a steady chorus from the tree frogs and bull frogs.  The fish have become so accustomed to us feeding them, that the minute we approach, they come swimming from every direction.  The deer are really not much different in that they also approach but stand behind a tree and peep around it.  As we drive away, they come running.  We are at the end of August and still have numerous fawns with spots.  I wonder if they are going to have time to mature before winter.  We really enjoy all the wonders of nature.

22. Early in the year, we had a single turkey hen start regularly coming to the feeding area at the game cam.  We purchased some cracked corn to add to the whole grain corn that the deer like, especially for the turkeys and small animals.  The single turkey mom just returned with her brood of young turkeys.  We can clearly see how quickly one turkey can turn into one hundred turkeys.  To a degree, that has actually happened here, because turkeys are now running over each other.  In all the years that I hunted during my youth, I saw maybe half a dozen turkeys total by the time I was 18.  Now, over at Mom & Dad's farm, you can see dozens on any given day.  We still love looking at them but kind of hope the population increase slows down a little bit.  A good friend of ours saw a large tom turkey just off of the tractor road to her barn.  She decided to walk over and get a close-up picture.  The tom turkey dropped its wings and attacked her spurring her in both sides and sending her to the hospital.  She vows to remember that come hunting season!!

23. Our good friend, Wayne Bryan, each year on Memorial Day remembers his Confederate ancestors and neighbors by placing a Confederate Flag on each Confederate Soldier's grave.  He has worked his way up to placing the Confederate Flag on about 30 soldier's graves in and around Grundy, Marion, and Franklin counties.  I salute Wayne and hope that we all continue to remember our ancestry.  This particular grave is Wayne's Great-Great-Grandfather, H. C. Sartain of the 28th Tennessee Cavalry, CSA.

24. GREAT NEWS!!!  I was just able to purchase back a beautiful condition, rare pattern (No Inner Buckle Border Rim), large size US oval waist belt plate that I dug back in 1982.  The reason "this buckle" is special to me is that I got three ribs broken by a HUGE bull the day I dug it.  The bull was actually a "semi-pet" and would follow me around the pasture while digging.  The only thing that you had to definitely bear in mind was no "dirt throwing" while digging.  If you threw dirt, the bull took it personally.  On this particular day, I had already dug this buckle and had another really good signal.  I was being a little too excited and careless.  I was bent over the hole moving the dirt around trying to get a glimpse of the edge of the relic.  I was apparently moving the dirt around to vigorously.  "Knobby" (the big bull) had one complete horn and one "knob" consisting of about 1/2 a horn.  Thus the name "Knobby".  I felt Knobby's head and the good horn go under me as I was bent over, and it literally felt like the Space Shuttle launching.  I felt the three ribs in quick succession go pop, pop, pop.  And then, as I was launched over ten feet in the air, I was snatched right out of my head phones and saw the sky, and then the ground for three revolutions.  Then I came crashing back to the ground landing right in front of Knobby's head.  He did nothing whatsoever but expected to have his head rubbed.  That was it for me for that day.  "Forresty Maxwell" was hunting with me that day, and he made the wise decision to stay out of the pasture with the bull.  I remember him saying, "You wanted that buckle way worse than I did."  Knobby the bull made the fatal mistake of launching the owner, Mr. Owens, into orbit a few weeks later.  Knobby then became "hamburger".  So, I am very happy that Randy Burnham gave me the opportunity to bring it home.  The following two weeks were without a doubt the sorest that I have ever been !!!!!!!  Breathing was hard, but don't even think about caughing, laughing, or heaven forbid "sneezing" !!!

25. As many of you know, our big Civil War Show at Franklin, Tennessee, was held this past weekend (DEC. 7 and DEC. 8, 2024).  I was walking down an aisle - scanning as I walked, and right in the middle of a display containing 60 - 80 plates, I spotted a "rope-border" CS Oval that I recovered back in 1986.  I immediately stopped and looked closer, and the tag said "Wayne Jenkins, 1986".  I absolutely knew that was the plate, because I sold the buckle to Wayne the following day after digging it in "1986".  I sold the buckle for $500 in 1986, which at that point in time was a pretty good amount of money.  I bought the buckle back this past Friday afternoon for $1,700 and was happy as a clam!!  After an absence of nearly 40 years, it is headed back upstairs to go into the display with its brothers and cousins.  I had a whale of a good time at the Civil War Show buying and selling several pieces, but I would have been thrilled if getting my buckle back was the only thing I accomplished at the show!  (These are some fun memories from 38 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 !!)

26. I am very fortunate to have three individuals in my family that are interested in and collect Civil War artifacts.  What is a bit unusual is that I am the only "guy" interested.  The other two are female cousins.  One of my cousins, Marcia Hicklin, is the owner and curator of "Hicklin Hearthstone", a museum and working farm dating the Civil War Era.  A couple of years back, I disarmed a family hand-me-down Parrott artillery shell from the plantation home.  We today received an order from Marcia adding a powder flask to the museum collection.  I am very proud that our family is doing what we can to honor our heritage.  (Marcia stopped by for a short visit a few days ago, and it was such a treat to get to see her !!!  I really do want to get out to visit her, and be able to meet the Missouri side of our family !!)

27. When you are at a Civil War show anywhere around Nashville or Franklin, you never know who you might run into!!!  I think "I hear that train a comin', rollin' round the bend."  What a talent this man was and a devoted Civil War collector!!!

28. Here are an interesting series of pictures following our Relic Shop all the way back to 1929 when it was a little country grocery store servicing visitors to the Stones River Park and Cemetery.  The older pictures are the old store around 1930, and the pictures with the red arrows are showing various things that can be seen in the current pictures.  The sign pole out in front of the store I dug up and moved to the edge of the parking area, but it is the same pole.  The front of the store originally extended out further allowing vehicles to drive underneath it.  I cut it back to "porch size" which allowed room for parking in front of it.  Notice in one of the old pictures you can see an awning that could be raised up and provide an open counter toward the park.  I have been told that they made sandwiches and lunches for park visitors.  Originally, there was a train platform that unloaded visitors beside the cemetery stone wall, and they walked down the wall to the cemetery entrance which brought them right to the front of the store.  Over the years, I have been told and read many interesting accounts relating to the park and cemetery.  One story that I have been repeatedly told is that for a number of years, people travelled a good distance to avoid coming through the park area in July and August.  It is estimated that 8,000 - 10,000 mules and horses were killed in the battle, and to a great degree with the help of vultures, decayed on the field.  It is sobering all the history that remains here surrounding us.  The first picture is the current shop which incorporates the old original general store.

29. If some of you have never visited the Carter House at the Battle of Franklin, Tennessee, AT NIGHT, you are missing a jaw-dropping experience.  The "farm office building" which sits on the south side of the Carter House lawn from the main house took the brunt of fire power from the afternoon of November 30, 1864, when the Confederate Army of Tennessee made a desperate charge (actually according to some accounts - six separate charges) on the Federal line just south of the Carter House.  The farm office building is one of the most battle scarred standing structures in the United States.  There are over 1,000 holes.  I was privileged one afternoon to be in the office farm house when rays of light came through the bullet holes.  It was unbelievable, and there was practically no place you would not have gotten hit.  For me, this is somewhat like seeing the great Redwood trees in California.  Until you stand there and see it in person, it is impossible to grasp the magnitude.

30. I took the grandbabies, Lila Magnolia and Isabella Rose, relic hunting yesterday.  Even though it was a little cool and misty, they hung tough.  We were able to recover one bullet each for them.  We found one dropped .54 cal. 3-ring Confederate Minie ball for the Mississippi rifle and one .69 cal. musket ball for the old smooth bore muskets the Confederates were forced to use.  Then, wouldn't you know it, we ran into another relic hunter in the woods - Old Big Foot!!!

31. Here is a set of four of the very rarest buckles ever recovered here at Stones River and the camps just south of here.  I recovered the oval Alabama Map on Tree from the camp of the 1st Alabama Cavalry located just south of Murfreesboro, near Midland, Tennessee.  The cast brass "Map on Tree" sword belt plate was recovered by Bobby Moon at a hospital site here at Stones River.  The small oval AVC cartridge box plate was recovered by Richard Bodenhammer among the limestone out-croppings on private property actually here at the battlefield of Stones River.  And the large oval AVC was recovered from the same 1st Alabama Cavalry camp where I recovered the large oval Map on Tree.  It is a super rarity to see these four plates together!!!

32. We started our water garden project back in June of 2022.  It has been a fun and challenging project that is at last coming into final focus.  Here are some pictures that follow us along the way.  We enjoy sitting by the water garden sipping wine, watching the fish and birds, and listening to the wind chimes.  Calms the soul!!!

33. 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.

34. 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!!

35. 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 !!!)

36. 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.

37. 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 !!!

38. 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.  My two young buddies came back to visit during Christmas 2024, and we went to our favorite (all you can eat) retaurant.  I used to be able to "out-eat them" - BUT NO - MORE !!!  WE LOVE THESE GUYS !!!

39. This past weekend (several months/years 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.

40. It is throw-back relic time again.  About 40 years ago, we recovered these two buckles from the camp of the 1^st Alabama Cavalry that was destroyed in March of 1863 by General David Stanley’s Federal Cavalry out of Murfreesboro, TN.  The 1^st 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.

41. 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 !!!

42. 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 !!!

43. 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.

44. 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 !!!

45. 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 !!!

46. Here is another "throw-back relic digging" memory.  Back in the fall of 1975, (50 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.)

47. 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 !!!

48. 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 !!!

49. 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.

50. 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

51. 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 !!!)

52. 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 !!!

53. 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.

54. 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!!!

55. 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!!!

56. 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" !!!

    It is throw-back relic time.  This set of three Confederate artifacts I recovered 40 years ago from the 1863 winter camp of the 2nd Tennessee Infantry CSA.  The 2nd Tennessee occupied this camp for almost six months and was their longest period of inactivity of the entire Civil War.  I hunted the camp for multi-years and recovered many very nice artifacts, and these were among them.  They include a Confederate side knife, a Confederate manufactured bayonet scabbard tip, and a flawless, cast bras rectangular CSA waist belt plate with all three hooks intact.  Those are some wonderful relic digging memories!!

    Just brought into the shop, very nice condition, Colt Model 1849, .318 cal., pocket model revolver.  This revolver has a smooth, gently aging, gray patina with an all-matching serial number of 213355 (including the wedge), which is most desirable 1861 production.  This revolver is out of a local Southern estate and was almost surely Confederate carried.  The action still works perfectly, and the main spring remains quite strong.  I have a fair idea of who might have carried this revolver and will pass that information along.--$1,295.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, large 2 3/4 inch, "Big Sandy" Archaic Era Native American spear head recovered about 35 years ago by Ben Crabtree from an early Native American camp site along the Wolf River in East Tennessee.  This point is believed to be between five and six thousand years old.  In 60 years walking, this point ranks as one of Ben's nicest.--$195.SOLD

    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, 16^th 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 16^th 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.--$12,950.

    Very pretty condition, excavated, thick "Atlanta style", cast brass, rectangular CSA Confederate Enlistedman's waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered from the Confederate defense line surrounding Atlanta.  It has a smooth, chocolate patina and all three hooks intact on the reverse.  It is an extremely crude casting with the hole in the top of the "A" almost completely filled in with brass.  If you like "crude Confederate" then this will be your cup of tea.--$3,850.

    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.

    Civil War Era microscope in original wooden case.  It is very similar to the one pictured in Lord's Civil War Collector Encyclopedia, Volume V, page 129.  It is solid brass construction and still works nicely.L--$295.

    Beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, "Droop Wing Eagle" Confederate Staff Officer's button.  This button was recovered many years ago from a Confederate camp near Chickamauga, Georgia.  It was recovered by Dr. Francis Fesmire from a Confederate position on private property near Chickamauga, Georgia.  The reverse has the single depressed channel and remnants of what was once the iron attaching loop.  It is very difficult to dig a prettier Confederate local "Droop Wing Staff" than this one.--$550.

    Nice condition "Joseph" straight saw used for bone cutting and bone sectioning for reconstructive surgery.  It remains in excellent condition.L--$225.

    Quite rare, original packet of Civil War "sail-makers needles".  There are 12 sewing needles in the original box with the Civil War Era label remaining intact.  This set of sail makers needles has been in the Ann & C. W. Webb private museum for several years in Lowell, Arkansas.L--$195.

    Really pretty, dark gray, 1 1/2 inch "LeCroy" Native American arrowhead point.  This point dates the Archaic Era and is about six thousand years old.  It was recovered by Ben Crabtree from an early Native American camp site along the Wolf River in East Tennessee.  This point is believed to be from some of our earliest ancestors.  In 60 years walking, Ben only found about half a dozen of these.  It is astounding to realize the talent and expertise these folks had thousands and thousands of years ago.--$95.

    Very nice condition and quite rare, early 1800 era, sailor's thumbstall.  This was used in the repair of damaged sails.  The brass thimble has a large raised star which we suspect may represent the Texas Navy.  The artifact is out of Texas, and the star is very similar to the Texas Star found on other Texas products.  This is the one and only of these that we have ever had.  It is out of the Arkansas museum owned by Ann & C. W. Webb.  This is an artifact that you will not get a chance to own very often.L--$275.

    Ornate, gilted, 1840 era, Militia Officer's sword and brass scabbard.  This sword has an ivory grip that was replaced some time back and has an entire Eagle with spread wings as a pommel cap and a massive gilted brass cross guard with a chain attached to the Eagle's beak.  The blade remains in nice condition with some areas turning a gray/brown in color.  The brass scabbard is ornately engraved with about 20% remaining gold gilting.  Anyone would be proud to have this sword in their collection.--$850.

    One of the most popular and sought after carbines of the American Civil War.  This is the 7-shot, .56 cal., Model 1860 Spencer repeating carbine.  This example remains very tight with crisp action and is serial number 33189 which is excellent mid-war production.  The carbine was cleaned about 50 years ago and has now taken on a light toning patina.  The bore remains excellent, and a short pattern carbine sling snap swivel comes with the gun.  The Spencer markings can be seen, but are somewhat dim in areas.  Many Civil War collectors feel that the wide spread distribution of the Spencer carbine and the Spencer rifle had much to do with bringing the war to a close.  In recent years, Spencer carbines have become one of the most sought after firearms of the American Civil War.--$2,950.

    Really pretty .69 cal. 3-band Potsdam rifled musket.  These are also known as "Prussian Muskets", and the governor of OHIO purchased a "bunch" of these, and sent early War Ohio troops off to war armed with them.  As relic hunters, anytime we are hunting an early War camp, and start digging "Prussian Bullets" -- You know that you are in an early War Ohio Infantry camp.  It is likely this musket spent time in an Ohio G.A.R. Hall.  The metal on the musket has been lightly nickel plated, so that the musket stays clean and bright with very little effort at all.  If you'd like a bright clean musket that is going to stay that way with near zero effort -- Here Is A BEAUTY (and priced RIGHT) !!!--$1,250.

    Absolutely beautiful face on this excavated, large size, lead-filled, "OVM" (Ohio Volunteer Militia) cartridge box plate.  This cartridge box plate was recovered about 40 years ago from an Ohio Infantry camp located near Decherd, Tennessee.  I actually dug a matching OVM buckle to this box plate about 50 feet away.  This will be a centerpiece to someone's Ohio display.--$2,450.

    Excellent condition, Confederate manufactured, wooden canteen.  This canteen was for many years on display in the private museum owned by Ann and C. W. Webb in Lowell, Arkansas.  It is about as nice an example as you are going to find.--$1,850.

    Here we have a beautiful "Hi-Grade" Model 1850 Federal Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard that was purchased in 1975 directly from the family.  The information that came with the sword indicated that the sword was carried by an ancestor by the name of Lt. Jacob Probst.  He was a member of the 21st New Jersey Infantry.  The sword has an ornate brass guard with "US" cast into the guard.  The engraving on the blade is really something having US, a drum, a shield, stacked arms, a flag, crossed cannons, a camp scene with tents, and a soldier on picket.  The leather scabbard is ornately tooled, and patterned, but does have an old repair just above the drag.  This sword has been carried A LOT as the drag has "TONS OF WEAR".  He served in the Fredericksburg campaign, as well as Salem Heights.  Lt. Probst was born in Bremen, Germany, April 20, 1841, and died February 13, 1901, at age 59 years.  He was very active in Veteran and community activities.--$2,150.

    Another Mexican Was letter written by Robert Russell on March 27, 1848 from Molina Del Rey in Mexico City to his relatives in Savannah, Tennessee.  Robert was a member of the 4th Regt. Tenn. Vol. Inf. - Co "F".  And this was the birth of the "Tennessee Volunteers" and our state slogan "TENNESSEE - THE VOLUNTEER STATE".  This letter is mostly upbeat, and they have been exploring the area some.  He says some of the fields are upwards of 100 acres, and level as a die, and rich as creme !!  He ends the letter begging for more letters from home because "you can't imagine how much good they do !!"  The Mexican War would soon end, and add what would become numerous new states to the Union.  This is a fantastic piece describing some of our nation's earliest history !!--$195.

    Absolutely beautiful set of three Federal US waist belt plates.  These three plates represent the three different sizes that US plates may be found in.  The top plate is a Model 1839, non-excavated "baby oval" US waist belt plate with full lead and single arrow attaching hook.  The second plate is the ultra-rare "true medium size", lead-filled, US oval with puppy-paw hooks waist belt plate.  This plate has only been recovered in a few locations.  This example was recovered at Harrison Landing, Virginia, in 1991.  And the third plate is a standard early war large size US oval with puppy-paw hooks and full lead.  This buckle was recovered here at Stones River about 40 years ago.  It is very, very rare to see this set of US buckles in excellent condition offered together.--$1,450 for the entire set.

    Absolutely "Smoking Beautiful" .36 cal Model 1851 private purchase Colt Navy Model Revolver.  This revolver has about 90 % original bluing, near 100% Naval cylinder engraving, and a bore that will cut your finger !!  The revolver has an all matching serial number of "146284" (including matching wedge) which is very sought after mid-war "1863" production.  The .36 cal. Colt Navy was Gen N. B. Forrest's personal favorite weapon, and in his last will and testament, Forrest left his personal Colt Navy Revolver to his oldest son with the note - "This revolver has gotten me out of many a "tight place", and if ever you are in need of defense, I hope that you will not hesitate to use it !!"  The Nicest I Have Had In Years !!!--$2,950.SOLD*

    Very nice condition, small size Civil War field surgeon's kit.  The kit is 9 3/4 by 9 inches in the open position.  It consists of 12 pieces, including the master bone saw, scissors, flesh stretchers, two large knives, five scalpels, and suture implement for stitching wounds.  In this kit, there is one handle that "quick disconnects" and will fit three separate instruments.  Most instruments are Civil War Era maker marked, "Milikin - 151 Strand - London".  This kit has been in a private museum in Arkansas for the past number of years.  The case itself remains in beautiful condition with an uninscribed oval plaque on the walnut lid.  This medical kit would be a fine addition to any museum or Civil War collection.--$1,650.

    Drop Dead Beautiful, and "SUPER RARE" "elongated nose" 3.59 inch Schenkl case shot Projectile.  This is a "Non-Excavated example" that came out of a Civil War era home in Fredericksburg, VA.  To my knowledge, there are less than five "non-excavated" examples of this projectile in existence.  In 50 years here at the store, I have only seen three.  Being non-excavated, the condition is nothing short of super nice just as issued.--$1,850.

    Just brought into the shop out of the local area, a very attractive, .58 cal., Springfield rifled musket with a lockplate marked, "1864 - US - Springfield".  This musket was made serviceable by using some parts from a Model 1861 Springfield and some parts from an 1863 Springfield.  The barrel, wooden stock, and the hammer are Model 1861.  The lockplate, barrel bands, and ram rod are Model 1863.  It is very likely this musket could have been Southern carried since it has been made serviceable by using parts from a couple of different model weapons.  The lockplate still locks firmly into both half-cock and full cock.  Considering where it came from, and also considering it has been made functional by using assorted parts, the musket was very likely Southern carried.  It displays beautifully.--$1,250.

    Beautiful condition, excavated, "gutter back", Georgia frame, Confederate waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered about 30 years ago near the "Widow James" home which was General Leonidas Polk's headquarters.  The home was also used as a hospital.  The buckle has a smooth, never cleaned, brown/green patina and was recovered in the front yard of the old mansion.  The two teeth remain intact and sharp as can be.--$650.

    Quite rare Model 1858 Federal canteen with "Sky Blue" cover, original sling, and stopper.  The canteen is maker marked "J. H. Rohrman -- Philadelphia" on the spout.  Federal canteens in nice condition with the "Sky Blue" cover are quite sought after, and rare to find.--$595.

    Here we have a beautiful "Hi-Grade" Model 1850 Federal Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard that was purchased in 1975 directly from the family.  The information that came with the sword indicated that the sword was carried by an ancestor by the name of Lt. Jacob Probst.  He was a member of the 21st New Jersey Infantry.  The sword has an ornate brass guard with "US" cast into the guard.  The engraving on the blade is really something having US, a drum, a shield, stacked arms, a flag, crossed cannons, a camp scene with tents, and a soldier on picket.  The leather scabbard is ornately tooled, and patterned, but does have an old repair just above the drag.  This sword has been carried A LOT as the drag has "TONS OF WEAR".  He served in the Fredericksburg campaign, as well as Salem Heights.  Lt. Probst was born in Bremen, Germany, April 20, 1841, and died February 13, 1901, at age 59 years.  He was very active in Veteran and community activities.--$2,150.

    Another Mexican Was letter written by Robert Russell on March 27, 1848 from Molina Del Rey in Mexico City to his relatives in Savannah, Tennessee.  Robert was a member of the 4th Regt. Tenn. Vol. Inf. - Co "F".  And this was the birth of the "Tennessee Volunteers" and our state slogan "TENNESSEE - THE VOLUNTEER STATE".  This letter is mostly upbeat, and they have been exploring the area some.  He says some of the fields are upwards of 100 acres, and level as a die, and rich as creme !!  He ends the letter begging for more letters from home because "you can't imagine how much good they do !!"  The Mexican War would soon end, and add what would become numerous new states to the Union.  This is a fantastic piece describing some of our nation's earliest history !!--$195.

    Very nicely crafted Native American Caddoan flint/siltstone agricultural spade hoe.  This hoe measures 6 1/2 inches in height and 5 inches in width.  The edges are nicely worked, and the hoe gently arcs in for effective chopping.  It is quite rare to find an Indian tool of this size INTACT after many years of use and cultivation of the land.  It was recovered by Ben Crabtree from a Native American Cherokee camp site located along the Wolf River in East Tennessee.--$150.

    Beautiful condition black flint "drill".  This drill was recovered about 45 years ago by Ben Crabtree from a Native American Cherokee Indian camp site located along the Wolf River in East Tennessee.  The drill measures 1 3/4 inch in length.  You could not ask for a prettier example.--$55.

    Very pretty, excavated, Richmond Arsenal pattern, CS two-piece, Enlistedman's saber belt plate.  This buckle was recovered near Brandy Station, Virginia, and the belt loops on each side had been intentionally broken off.  All of the parts to the buckle were found in close proximity to each other.  It has been restored by the best - Robert McDaniel - using pins to assure decent strength.  It will make a very nice centerpiece to a Confederate display.--$1,495.SOLD

    Extremely rare and sought after "1863" date Richmond, VA. Confederate manufactured Cavalry carbine.  This rare carbine is wartime production, and was purchased about 40 years ago by Jim Brandon out of a local Richmond estate.  I purchased the carbine as a part of Jim's estate probably close to 20 years ago now.  I sold the carbine to a friend who has  had it until the current time.  It has a pretty - never cleaned - chocolate brown patina tip to tip.  The lockplate is marked "1863 - Richmond, VA", and the hammer locks firmly into both half cock and full cock.  The hammer is an old Springfield replacement, and appears to have been there since the Civil War era. This carbine carries a mystery with it.  It appears to have been originally carried by one Confederate who was apparently either killed or wounded.  The original Confederate owner had his name carved with a pen knife into the rear of the shoulder stock.  The "new owner" did not want a name on his gun that was not his own for fear that he may be killed and misidentified to his family, and they would therefore not know what happened to him.  It is quite common for the new owner of a Confederate gun to remove the previous owners name or initials and often put his own.  On this weapon, the original owner had his name and unit carved into the bottom of the butt stock.  You can still make out "Wickhams" Brigade, but I can only see a couple of letters of the soldier's name.  Wickham's Brigade and likely this weapon participated in the Battle of Williamsburg, the Seven Days' Battles, and the Second Manassas and Maryland campaigns.  Later the unit was involved in the conflicts at Fredericksburg, Kelly's Ford, Chancellorsville, Brandy Station, Upperville, Gettysburg, Bristoe, Mine Run, The Wilderness, Todd's Tavern, Spotsylvania, Haw's Shop, and Bethesda Church.    It is extremely rare at this point in time to find an honest, Confederate manufactured, Richmond carbine on the market for sale.--$7,500.

    Beautiful condition, excavated, CS "ball serif", two-piece Confederate sword belt plate.  This is a rare pattern CS buckle in that the wreath is "solid" in the reverse.  This one was recovered near Culpepper, Virginia, and these type CS tongue and wreath buckles are sometimes called "the Culpepper style".  This is going to be a centerpiece in someone's Confederate buckle display.--$3,450.

    Very pretty, coat size, Confederate crossed cannons with anchor, Confederate States Navy uniform button.  This button is actually from the uniform of Commodore Sinclair of the Confederate States Navy.  Commodore Sinclair's final mission was to supervise the building and outfitting of the CSS Texas in Scotland.  The Civil War ended before the "Texas" was completed.  Much of Commodore Sinclair's personal items was eventually sold at auction after being deaccessioned from Smith College.  This is a super rare and beautiful button with a fantastic history.--$950.

    Excavated Leech and Rigdon "CS" sword belt plate.  This buckle was recovered about 30 years ago from General Forrest's Confederate Cavalry camp located along Tippa Creek in North Mississippi.  The buckle has a good fit, and matching patina, and was recovered together, but it appears that the original wreath had broken and a replacement had been found.  The replacement wreath fits well, but does have a little bit heavier belt loop than the tongue.  Other than that, it fits perfectly, and was being worn that way.  The buckle has a very pleasing display look.--$2,450.

    Absolutely drop-dead beautiful condition, non-excavated, coat size, CS1, Confederate "CSA" in the Shield Confederate Staff Officer button.  This example is in near perfect condition with 98% bright gold gilt and an "Isaac Campbell - London" backmark.  You would be very hard pressed to find a nicer example than this one.--$1,450.

    Beautiful condition pair of Civil War Era Officer Epaulettes.  For many years, this pair of Epaulettes was on display in the private museum owned by Ann and C. W. Webb of Lowell, Arkansas.  They are currently mounted in a glass front Riker mount case.W--$395.

    Excellent condition, solid silver, Federal 17th Corp Badge.  The perimeter of the badge has been detailed by a jeweler, and the badge has a "T-bar" Civil War Era attachment pin on the reverse.W--$450.

    Beautiful condition, non-excavated, 1840 - 1850 era, stamped brass Eagle hat device.  These were commonly pre-war, but were often carried over and worn by Confederates during the Civil War.  This pin remains in perfect condition with both attachment loops intact on the reverse.  It was on display for a number of years at the private museum owned by Ann and C. W. Webb of Lowell, Arkansas.W--$395.

    3-inch scraper picked up by Ben Crabtree from an early Cherokee camp located on the Wolf River in East Tennessee.  The scraper remains pretty much exactly the same as when it was used hundreds and hundreds of years ago.  This will make a very nice centerpiece for someone's Native American display.  It was recovered about 30 years ago.--$38.

    Excavated, 2-tone, cream colored, 8 1/2 inch Ginger Beer bottle.  This bottle was recovered from a Confederate trash pit located near Duck River, Shelbyville, Tennessee.--$48.

    Really pretty display containing six Native American arrowheads picked up along the Wolf River in East Tennessee by Ben Crabtree.  Ben passed away a few months ago, and I have his approximate 40-year collection of arrowheads that he personally picked up.  This group of six is displayed in a glass front Riker case.--$55.

    Group of four artifacts consisting of a double-tongue, brass frame, heavy civilian style buckle and three excavated, coat size, plain face buttons.  This group of artifacts was recovered by Dr. Don Orth from a Confederate camp located on a plantation site near Charleston, South Carolina.--$48.

    Excavated, circular, lead-filled, 3-iron hook, 1840 era, NCO Union breast plate.  This plate was recovered from a Confederate camp near Shelbyville, Tennessee.  It is very likely this 3-hook NCO plate was being worn by a Confederate as his waist belt plate.  It has two broken iron hooks which is likely why the plate was discarded.  These plates are about 20 years pre-Civil War and not real uncommon to uncover in Confederate camp sites.--$275.

    Here we have a beautiful "Hi-Grade" Model 1850 Federal Field and Staff Officer's sword and scabbard that was purchased in 1975 directly from the family.  The information that came with the sword indicated that the sword was carried by an ancestor by the name of Lt. Jacob Probst.  He was a member of the 21st New Jersey Infantry.  The sword has an ornate brass guard with "US" cast into the guard.  The engraving on the blade is really something having US, a drum, a shield, stacked arms, a flag, crossed cannons, a camp scene with tents, and a soldier on picket.  The leather scabbard is ornately tooled, and patterned, but does have an old repair just above the drag.  This sword has been carried A LOT as the drag has "TONS OF WEAR".  He served in the Fredericksburg campaign, as well as Salem Heights.  Lt. Probst was born in Bremen, Germany, April 20, 1841, and died February 13, 1901, at age 59 years.  He was very active in Veteran and community activities.--$2,150.

    Excavated set of brass Federal shoulder epaulets recovered on private property near Shiloh.  These were recovered by Dr. Rees Buttram about 40 years ago and were on display in the museum at the bottom of Lookout Mountain for several years.  The identification label that comes with the epaulets is the very identification tag from the museum.--$175.

    Very nice condition, excavated, large size, plain face, brass oval waist belt plate.  These were originally worn by 1820 - 1840 Militia units.  They were carried over to the Civil War and worn by Confederates.  This example was recovered from a Confederate camp near Charleston, South Carolina.  It has a pretty brown/green patina with all three attachment hooks remaining intact.--$550.

    Excellent condition, excavated, super heavy/thick, triangle teeth, Confederate cast brass Georgia frame waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered from one of General Nathan Bedford Forrest's Cavalry camps located near Spring Hill, Tennessee, and occupied in 1863.  It remains uncleaned and has a beautiful brown/green patina.--$750.

    Excellent condition, non-excavated, small oval, Model 1839, "baby US" cartridge box plate.  These are usually found on .69 caliber Federal cartridge boxes.  This example is uncleaned with full lead and both attachment loops remaining intact on the reverse.--$295.

    Excellent condition, non-excavated, large size, English 3-piece snake buckle.  This type buckle was issued with many Enfield rifled muskets imported into the Confederacy.  This example has a pleasing, uncleaned patina that is darkening with age.  I have an idea who this buckle might have belonged to and will share that with the buyer.--$550.

    Excellent condition, 1 1/2 page, 8 x 14 inch letter dated December 29, 1863, with the subject matter being "getting permission to pay an underage drummer boy $300" as agreed for his service.--$75.

    Hand written receipt for the hire of a slave belonging to Tabitha Rufold.  The document is dated March 30th, 1836, and is for the one-year hire of Tabitha's "Negro man - Till" for the present year (1836).  Interestingly, Tabitha simply made an "X", and someone else filled in her name.  It was still 25 years from the time of this document until the time the Civil War occurred.--$75.

    Excavated, coat size, North Carolina Confederate local uniform button.  This button was recovered from near Fredericksburg, Virginia, and is solid as a rock with shank intact.  But, it has been stepped on and is substantially dented.--$35.

    Cast brass sword belt plate that had the device affixed to the plate with small wires.  The plate was discarded because the outside keeper bar broke.  This buckle was recovered from an "early" Civil War South Carolina Infantry camp, and the device was likely a "Palmetto Tree".  I guarantee that Robert McDaniel could restore this plate back to beautiful !!--$295.SOLD

    Excavated Confederate two-piece, block "I" (Infantry) uniform button recovered fro Pat Cleburne's November 1862 Confederate Infantry camp located near College Grove, Tennessee.  This is the flat, low convex variety block "I" with an iron back local reverse.--$89.

    Very pretty set of ten arrowheads picked up by Ben Crabtree over the last 60 years from Native American camp sites along Wolf River in East Tennessee.  The Native Americans who occupied these camps were Cherokee and Shawnee.  As land is being taken out of cultivation, there are fewer and fewer areas left to look for arrowheads.  These ten arrowheads are displayed in a 6 x 8 inch glass front Riker case.--$95.

    Smaller size display case of five Native American arrowheads picked up along Wolf River in East Tennessee.  These areas were occupied by Cherokee and Shawnee Indians.  It has become difficult to find Indian arrowheads.--$48.

    Quite scarce to come by, small size, excavated, lead-filled, "star and shield" rosette/Martingale.  These are generally associated with Texas Cavalry.  This example measures 2 inches by 1 3/4 inches and was recovered many years ago from Wharton's 8th Texas Cavalry 1862 winter camp.  This size is sometimes mounted on a leather pad and serves as a Martingale.  These are quite rare to recover, and this example has full lead, and only one of the three attachment wires remains intact.--$395.

    Extremely rare Civil War surgeon's AMPUTATION KIT.  This kit consists of three amputation saws (two use the same handle), two sets of flesh stretchers, one large surgical knife, several probes and picks, one original "MS" (Medical Service) hat insignia, and several sets of original needles and sutures.  Most museums do not have a Civil War surgical kit this nice.--$3,850.

    Absolutely drop-dead beautiful condition, excavated, "SILVERED", lead-filled, stamped brass, Cavalry rosette.  This rosette was recovered from the camp of the 8th Texas Cavalry that was located near Unionville, Tennessee.  It very nearly has 100% silver wash remaining intact.  This is one pretty rosette!!--$295.

    Very attractive, Model 1860, 6-shot, .44 cal., Colt Army model revolver.  The revolver has an all-matching serial number of 101628 which is 1863 production.  It shows clear evidence of use with rounded corners and numerous small dings.  The action still works perfectly and indexes every time.  The military inspector cartouche remains visible on the left-hand side of the grip.  Many collectors consider the Model 1860, .44 cal. Army revolver to be the most representative handgun of the American Civil War.  This is a good solid example showing clear evidence of actual field service.--$1,850.

    Very pretty, excavated, cast brass, Army of Tennessee round corner Confederate waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered many years ago from a Confederate Cavalry camp located on the north side of Atlanta.  It has a dark green patina and remains slick as can be.  All attachment hooks are intact on the reverse, but one was broken when found due to a casting flaw weakness and has been currently restored to full length by the best around - Robert McDaniel. The buckle is displayed in a nice glass front riker display case.  In 50 years relic hunting, I have recovered only one of these.  Any Confederate collector would be proud to add this plate to his collection.--$4,500.

    We are talking "Smoking Rare" CONFEDERATE COLLEGE HILL CAVALRY OFFICER'S SABER MADE IN NASHVILLE, TN. IN 1861 - 1862. The 2 branch "INFANTRY OFFICER" version of this sword is pictured on page 36 of "Albaugh's CONFEDERATE SWORDS", but the 3 branch cavalry officer's saber ISN"T EVEN PICTURED !!!  I have seen a total of only THREE of these in the 50 years that I have been in business here at Stores River, and this is the ONLY ONE that I have ever owned !!!  This one came out of an estate in central Alabama.  If you wait for the next one - I genuinely hope that you are a very, very young person !!!!!--$4,950.

    Beautiful condition excavated 2-Piece "Leech and Rigdon" C.S. sword belt plate.  This buckle was recovered from General Forrest's 1862 Cinfederate Cavalry camp along Tippa Creek, and the Hatchie River in North Mississippi.  The two halves were only inches apart.  This is one of the more sought after patterns with serifs on the end of the letters.  The fit is really nice, and the buckle has never even been rinsed off.--$3,850.

    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.--$4,850.

    Really - Really Cool excavated Leech and Rigdon Confederate Cavalry Officer's Spur !!  This spur apparently broke during the Civil War, and the Confederate Cavalry officer DID NOT want to give up his "CS" marked cavalry spur.  The soldier had a blacksmith apply an "iron splint" to the outside of the spur with pins coming through the spur.  The spur has very sharp, distinct stars on each side, but the "CS" is worn very dim.  This is "for sure" one of a kind, and I have never seen a "War Time" repair like this before.  It was recovered from Gen N. B. Forrest's Confederate Cavalry camp occupied during 1863, and located near Spring Hill, Tn.  Talk about a relic with character !!--$1,250.

    Extremely rare, Confederate manufactured, Roman style short Artillery sword with “CS” in the center of the cross guard and a star on the pommel.  These swords are thought to have been made at the Selma Arsenal in Alabama, as a couple of partially cast guards have been found in the river there.  This example has a brown/black, aged patina blade with scattered pitting.  The high copper content, heavy cast brass guard has spiraling ribs and a “CS” and star cast into each side.  This style Confederate sword is known for its crudity of manufacture (which is one of the factors that makes Confederate collectors love it).--$3,150.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, large oval, lead-filled, "SNY" (State of New York) 1840 - 1850 era, puppy-paw hook waist belt plate on the original brown buff Civil War waist belt.  This one appears to be unissued and is in super nice condition.  This would be a fine centerpiece to someone's New York collection.--$1,150.

    Very attractive, Model 1863, Remington New Model, .44 cal., Army revolver.  The revolver still indexes perfectly and has a strong main spring and good, crisp action.  It has barrel markings of, "E. Remington - Ilion - New York - USA - New Model".  There are traces of original finish left in recessed areas.  This is a quality revolver.--$1,650.

    Entire flat of import English Snake Buckles from the collection of Civil War author and collector - "Charlie Harris".  With this collection comes a "SIGNED" copy of the book that Charlie, along with, John E. Turner authored on the subject.  This is an excellent reference book with EVERY PICTURE in color.  And - did I mention - The reference book is "signed by the author" - yes, I guess I did !!!!--  $850. for the entire flat and reference book !!

    Small collection of excavated, import, English Lion's Head cast brass buckle parts.  These are almost always recovered from early to mid-war Confederate Infantry camps.  This collection has seven LION HEAD buckle parts in a glass case.--$375.

    This is one of the earliest reference books on Confederate buckles and is by "William G. Gavin".  It is Accoutrement Plates North and South 1861-1865.  Mr. Gavin published this book in 1963, and I still yet today sometimes refer back to it.  It remains in nice condition with original dust cover.--$65.

    Excavated, .44 cal., pistol ball that "WAS" embedded in wood.  But, when the wood piece was split open to show the ball, the wood piece broke apart and the ball came out.  It has been glued back in place for display, and you can clearly see its entrance path.  It is in a glass display case.--$35.

    Absolutely drop-dead beautiful condition, Model 1840, NCO pattern, "3-double wire hook", Federal Eagle cross-belt buckle.  In later issues, the Eagle plate was basically ornamental and just held on by two wire loops with leather running through them.  This early example actually has full lead and three double iron wire attachment hooks.  You will not find a nicer example.  It was recovered near Fredericksburg, Virginia.W--$395.

    Beautiful cased collection of five coat size Federal Branch of service Officer buttons.  This group includes 1) Eagle "C", 2) Eagle "I", 3), Eagle Staff Officer 4) Eagle"R", 5) Eagle "D".  All five buttons are beautifully gilted with shanks intact.--$350. for the entire set.

    Excellent, perfect condition, non-excavated, coat size, "CSA" Officer's uniform button.  This button has near 100% gilt and has a "Superior Quality" backmark with shank intact.--$225.

    Excellent condition, one page, Official Document listing Ordnance Stores for Co. C, 63rd Illinois Volunteer Infantry, on the 13th day of May, 1862.  The document lists the number of Prussian muskets, bayonets, gun slings, bayonet scabbards, cartridge boxes, cartridge box plates, cap pouches, belts, and belt plates issued to the Company and received by "Lt. Col. J.B. McCown".  Interestingly, we have recovered .69 cal. Prussian bullets from 1862 Illinois Infantry camps in this area.--$75.

    Very nice condition, walnut handle, folding Civil War Era straight razor.  The razor is maker marked, "Clark & Hall Warranted".  Every Civil War collection should have a straight razor.--$75.

    Very nice condition, four-page Union letter written from 1st Sergeant John E. Crandal to his girlfriend, "Nancy", back at home in Ohio.  John Crandal was a Sergeant in Co. F, 124th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  This letter was written from the Regiment's 1863 winter camp located at Triune, Tennessee.  This long-term camp was almost in walking distance of the farm I grew up on.  I recovered my very first Civil War belt buckle in this camp.  The camp was at first Confederate occupied but was occupied by Union forces from the Battle of Stones River, January 2, 1863, on until the end of the war.  This is an entrenched camp with a couple of forts inside the camp walls.  It is currently being developed and thankfully, eight acres including trenches and two forts are being preserved.  This is a very interesting letter in that he gives the common Union soldier's opinion of a number of the Union commanders.  John is not a fan of wool shirts and socks as they keep him "broke out"!!  This four-page letter gives a very nice view of a common soldier's life in the Western Theater of the Civil War.--$75.

    Beautiful condition, Confederate blacksmith-made, D-guard bowie knife.  The blade is made from a large file and is 13.5 inches in length.  The bowie knife measures 18 inches overall.  For many years, this knife was on display in the private museum belonging to Ann & C. W. Webb located in Lowell, Arkansas.  It has a beautiful, thick, aged brown patina and literally almost remains sharp enough to shave.  It has a walnut grip and a forged D-hand guard.  This bowie is nice enough to be on display in any museum.--$1,895.

    Very pretty condition and extremely rare, first year production, Model 1849 Colt, 5-shot, .318 caliber pocket revolver.  This revolver has a matching serial number of 15334, which is not only a Model 1849, but was also produced in 1849.  It shows honest wear with all corners rounded which you would expect from a revolver carried all the way through the American Civil War.  It is out of a Southern estate and comes in its original Confederate made leather holster.  This is a museum quality, Confederate carried Colt, at a very fair price.--$1,850.

    Very attractive excavated lead filled circular eagle breastplate.  This was recovered from a hospital lawn at the 1864 Battle of Franklin, TN.  It has crisp detail, and a smooth chocolate patina.--$175.

    Quite unusual piece of Confederate Artillery schrapnel in that it is the piece of schrapnel from a polygonal cavity C.S. round ball where the wooden drive-in fuse is located.  It broke exactly in half.  This was recovered at Vicksburg, MS.--$25.

    Excavated regulation camp spoon, and the remnants of a 3-prong eating fork.  These were recovered from an 1863  Confederate Cavalry Camp located here in Middle Tennessee and occupied by the 1st Alabama Cavalry.  I never want it to be said that I only offered relics for advanced collectors.  The two items are displayed in a glass Riker case.--$25.

    Excavated .56 cal. SPENCER carbine/rifle cartridge that was recovered on private property at The Battle of Hoover's Gap, TN.  This Battle took place in June, 1863 and was "The Army Of Tennessee's" first encounter with the 7 shot Spencers "en masse".  The Confederates nicknamed it "The Yankee's All Week Gun -- They Loaded it on Sunday and shot it all week" !!"  It was Wilder's Lightening Brigade that the Confederates ran into.--$45.

    Very attractive REPRODUCTION lead filled rectangular Louisiana State Seal waist belt plate.  This buckle was worn in the Movie "North and South".  It remains in nice condition, and has all the hooks, and could easily be worn today.--$75.

    Very nice condition, 4th Model Burnside Carbine.  This carbine has an all matching serial number of 12329.  There is original bluing remaining in recessed areas, and the rifling is as deep and sharp as it was during the Civil War.  The original long-range site remains intact as well as the floating snap swivel bar and ring.  The main spring remains as strong as when issued.  This is a nice quality little Burnside Carbine, and they were issued to, and were used by regiments of Cavalry of almost every state in the Union.--$1,650.

    Absolutely beautiful, archival framed grouping of 1862 Confederate notes and an excellent condition 1862 Confederate Loan Bond.  All notes are in excellent condition, and the matting is acid free and the glass light filtering.  This beautiful display is ready to hang.  We can deliver it to the Civil War Show coming up at Franklin, Tennessee, in December, or it can be picked up here at the shop.  We do not feel that we can safely ship it.  It measures 22 by 36 inches overall.--$1,450.

    Beautiful condition, 1840 - 1860 era, hand-crafted powder horn.  It has excellent workmanship and is a nicer horn than generally encountered.  The horn has a rich, aged patina, and everything still works perfectly.  It was on display for several years in an Arkansas museum.--$195.

    Very nice medical grouping consisting of 1) a turtle shell surgical knife having two locking blades, 2) a six-inch, bone handle medical scalpel, and 3) a cased set containing 14 curved medical sewing needles necessary in medical procedures.  This collection has for many years been on display in the private museum owned by Ann & C. W. Webb of Lowell, Arkansas.--$395. for the entire display.

    Medical "Proctotomy Knife" as pictured on page 306 of the Timann Medical catalogue.  This is an excellent example of Kelsey's proctotomy knife.  It is signed on the gutta percha handle, "Tiemann", who is considered one of the premier surgical instrument manufacturers of the Civil War Era.  It has a couple of dark spots, but is overall in excellent condition.  I would not recommend using this at home!!--$195.

    Very rare to find complete, "Y-shaped" Enfield musket combination gun tool.  This tool has a needle punch for clearing clogged nipples, a bullet extractor, a screw driver, a main spring vice, and a nipple tool.  Having relic hunted for over 50 years, I have recovered more Confederate belt buckles than I have complete Enfield musket tools.  They are that rare to find complete.  This is a non-excavated example and would be super nice displayed with your Enfield 3-band rifled musket.--$295.

    Excellent condition, solid silver, original Civil War 14th Army Corp badge.  The badge is non-excavated and jeweler crafted having the correct "T-bar" fastening device of the Civil War Era.  This corp badge was in the private museum belonging to Ann and C.W. Webb of Lowell, Arkansas, for many years.  It remains in near perfect condition with the attaching bar still intact.  Civil War Corp badges rarely become available for sale.--$450.

    Excavated single layer of canister (7 balls) for a 6 pound smooth bore cannon.  The individual balls are 1 inch to 1 1/8 inch in diameter.  These were recovered over 40 years ago when the area was a pig farm !!!  This was known as Breckenridge's Charge, and 1,800 young Confederate casualties (killed - wounded - and missing) occurred in one hour here on Jan. 2, 1863.--$125.

    Really nice .58 cal. "L. G. & Y - Windsor, VT" Special Model musket lockplate, and hammer assembly.  The lockplate has a good strong mainspring, and locks firmly into both half cock and full cock positions  It remains "in the bright", and is marked "L. G. & Y - Windsor, VT - 1864" - Very Pretty--$250.

    Beautiful condition, non-excavated, large size, lead-filled US oval waist belt plate.  This is the arrow-hook variety and has all three hooks remaining intact.  Although it is a non-excavated plate, it has a chocolate brown patina as thick and pretty as many dug examples.  This buckle could easily be put back on leather.--$325.

    Three original Model 1855 Maynard tape primer rolls correct for any of the Maynard tape primed weapons.  The intention was to speed up the process of a soldier placing a single percussion cap on his musket nipple each time he fired.  The idea sounded good, but the reality was that the rolls of percussion caps absorbed moisture from the air especially on rainy or humid days, and they often misfired.  The Model 1855 musket was replaced by the Model 1861 and later the Model 1863 both of which took normal percussion caps (If you were a kid growing up in the 1950's, you likely had a cap gun that worked very similarly.)--$75.

    Excellent condition, original musket tumbler punch.  If you have a nice Civil War Era musket, this would be an excellent accessory to display with your musket.--$65.

    Excavated (quite rare) .50 cal. Point Nose Maynard carbine cartridge.  It remains in nice condition, and was recovered at Granny White Gap at the Dec. 1864 - Battle of Nashville, Tn.--$48.

    Quite rare "Richmond Sharps" recovered from a Confederate Cavalry camp located near Richmond, VA.  Every Civil War bullet collection should have one of these.--$35.

    Quite RARE "1864 - CITY OF TAUNTON" Police cuff size uniform button.  This is a Civil War era Taunton, MASS. cuff size button with "FINE QUALITY" backmark, 90 percent gold gilt, and shank intact.--$25.

    Original leather thong used to attach breast plates and cartridge box plates to Federal accoutrements.  It was purchased around 1900 from Bannerman's Island.--$38.

    Really pretty excavated coat size Connecticutt State Seal Federal uniform button.  This button was recovered many years ago by Dr. Don Orth from a Federal campsite located near Charleston, SC.  It has about 80% bright gold gilt, shank intact, and Waterbury RMDC backmark.  This would be a quality addition to any button collection.--$115.

    Very pretty condition excavated coat size Michigan State Seal Federal uniform button.  This button was recovered over 40 years ago about a mile from the Relic Shop here at the Battle Of Stones River.  It was recovered by my relic hunting buddy, Mr. Claiborne Lytle,  and was recovered from an 1863 Michigan Infantry winter campsite located immediatly alongside the rairoad track on private property here at Stones River.  I also revovered one of these at this camp, but mine was not as nice as this one.  This button has about 40% bright gold gilt surrounding the detail !!  Very Nice Button.--$175.

    Excellent condition, excavated, dropped Enfield, .577 cal.  This bullet was recovered on private property along the Confederate battle line here at Stones River.  It has a "57" base mark and is displayed in a glass front Riker case.--$20.

    Absolutely mint beautiful condition, coat size, Confederate stippled Roman "A" (Artillery) button.  This button has near 100% gilt and a "HT & B/Manchester" backmark.  It is a "CS101A" in Albert.--$375.

    Excellent condition, non-excavated, 3-piece Staff Pennsylvania State Seal.  This is a "PA19" with a rare "Horstmann & Bros. - Alien - NY" backmark.  It has about 90% gilt and shank intact.  $150.

    Here is one that you rarely ever see offered for sale.  It is a Civil War Era, 3-piece Staff, California State Seal - "Eureka".  It has near 100% gold gilt and small letter "Waterbury Scovill" backmark.  You would be hard pressed to find a nicer example.--$275.

    Collection of 7 small (1/2 inch size) die stamped brass hat letters.  These were worn to indicate state or organization.  Most still retain the attachment wires on the reverse.  Both U.S. and C.S. used these.--$125. for all

    Very attractive display consisting of an excavated .56 cal. Spencer carbine cartridge, a non-excavated coat size Federal "C" (Cavalry) uniform button, and a cuff "C" (Cavalry) button.  All displayed in a glass face Riker case.--$125. for all

    Very nice display of 8 non-excavated Civil War Era uniform buttons.  This group consists of a non-excavated Federal Infantry Officer button, a coat size Zouave Ball button, a cuff size Federal Navy button, a cuff size Eagle "A" (Artillery) button, a cuff size Eagle "C" (Cavalry) button, a cuff size Confederate Reunion button with the Confederate Battle Flag, a cuff size Marine button, and one button I am not acquainted with.  It has an Eagle surrounded by the letters, "ESVDN" and 5 stars.  The grouping is displayed in a glass face Riker case.--$150. for all 8 buttons

    Group of three dropped projectiles, two of which are from the Battle of Franklin, and one is from the Battle of Nashville.  The bullets were recovered in 1975 by my old hunting buddy, Clayborne Lytle, and are displayed in a glass face Riker case.  That was almost exactly 50 years ago.--$25. for case and bullets

    Nice condition, quite rare, excavated, 3-iron hook pattern, N.C.O. cross belt plate.  This plate was recovered about 40 years ago from a Federal camp site here in Middle Tennessee.  The plate has a smooth, chocolate brown face with smooth, full lead, and all three iron attachment hooks remaining intact.  There is a small number "61" stamped into the face of the plate.--$375.

    Very nice condition and super rare, Model 1842, "PALMETTO ARMORY", .58 cal., percussion horse pistol.  This pistol has been in the private museum owned by Ann and C. W. Webb for the past 40 years.  The pistol shows honest wear and crisp, clear lockplate markings of, "Palmetto Armory and the Palmetto tree - Columbia SC -1852".  The barrel has the tiny Palmetto tree stamping as well.  The action still works correctly locking firmly into both half-cock and full-cock.  It is quite rare anymore for a nice, honest example of this Confederate used pistol to come up for sale.L--$4,650.

    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.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, Model 1858, smooth type Federal canteen with original butternut cover, complete sling, and original stopper with chain.  This canteen came out of an Arkansas museum where it has been on display for years.  The soldier's initials, "W. W. P.", are written in old brown ink on the linen sling.  According to museum notes, this canteen was Confederate carried.--$650.

    Excellent condition, non-excavated, large size, "VMM" (Volunteer Maine Militia) cartridge box plate.  This plate has an excellent face, full lead, and both attachment loops remaining intact on the reverse.  It has been on display in an Arkansas museum for many years.--$1,450.

    Beautiful condition "10 Carat Gold" Federal "Five Point Star" Seventh Corp Badge.  The badge is jeweler engraved with the soldier's name "J. A. Leavy" inscribed on the face.  It has the classic Civil War "T-Bar" type attachment device on the reverse.  We tried looking him up, but there are several it could be, but knowing the Corp will help pin him down.  This Corp badge has been on display in an Arkansas museum for several years.--$750.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, coat size, non-excavated, 3-piece Maryland State Seal Staff Officer button.  This button has near 100% gold gilt with an "Extra Quality" backmark and the shank remaining intact.  This button has been in an Arkansas museum for a number of years.--$425.

    Nice condition and quite rare, excavated, 6.29 inch, 32 pounder size, Confederate smooth bore cannonball.  This rare size Confederate cannonball was recovered on private property near Vicksburg, Mississippi, and has an open Bormann fuse hole and under-plug hole.  The Confederate mold seam can be seen around the ball.  It is a nice example of a quite rare size Confederate cannonball.--$425.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, excavated, coat size, solid cast, Texas uniform button.  This button is a TX27A and was recovered from a Texas camp in north Mississippi.  It is quite rare with this button to actually be able to see the "CS" cast into the face of the star.  On this button, you can relatively easily see the "CS".  It has a pretty, uncleaned, brown/green patina.--$1,650.

    Very nice condition, antique cigar box containing 150 excavated Civil War bullets.  About 90% are dropped and were recovered here at the Battle of FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE and around Middle Tennessee on private property.  It is becoming more and more difficult to recover Civil War bullets because the lands where they were used and dropped are all being totally developed.--$275.

    Wooden box containing 25 excavated artifacts recovered on private property from the Battle of Stones River and camps around Murfreesboro.  This grouping of artifacts includes one circular brass civilian style rosette, one brass candle holder, five uniform buttons including one Confederate block "A" - (artillery button) that is flattened.  Also there are several iron and brass civilian style buckles, one brass sword hanger, one iron Confederate canteen spout, three excavated bullets, and one brass Enfield musket tompion.  This entire groups of artifacts including the wooden container--$150.

    Very pretty condition, Model 1855, Federal .58 cal. cartridge box complete with both belt loops, closure tab, brass cartridge box plate, and both roller buckles on the bottom of the box.  This cartridge box remains very pliable and has been on display in the private museum of Ann & C. W. Webb in Lowell, Arkansas, for the last 40 years or so.  It would be a quality addition to any Civil War collection.--$595.

    Very nice condition, Model 1860, .44 cal., Colt Army revolver.  The revolver has a smooth, aging, gray patina with deep crisp Colt markings on the top of the barrel.  It has an all matching serial number of 69257 (except for the wedge which is an old replacement) which places the revolver at a very desirable 1862 production.  The cylinder retains about 70% of the original cylinder scene, and the main spring remains as strong as during the Civil War.  The cylinder advances sometimes when cocking and sometimes not so well.  It could likely use a little adjusting.  The walnut grips remain in excellent condition with a visible military cartouche on each side.  This is a nice one if you have been wanting a Model 1860 Colt Army in your collection.  For many years it has been on display in the private museum of Ann and C. W. Webb of Lowell, Arkansas.  Most any Civil War collector would be proud to own this Colt revolver.--$2,450.

    Very nice condition, 1840 - 1860 era, 2 gallon wooden wagon canteen.  These canteens were carried on wagons during longer marches of the Civil War and were also often carried during the western expansion era.  This particular canteen was on display in the private museum owned by Ann & C. W. Webb of Lowell, Arkansas.  It still has the original wooden plug for the top.  It will make a beautiful display item for a Civil War Era collection.--$450.

    Saber bayonet in original leather scabbard.  The leather scabbard is complete but is flaking a little in some areas.  The saber bayonet appears correct to fit a Remington Zouave musket.--$450.

    Extremely rare and sought after .58 cal. "Model 1855", pre-war Federal 3-band rifled musket.  This musket was recently brought into the shop by a family, and would have been a Confederate carried "bring home".  It originally had either a Springfield, or Harpers Ferry lockplate, and was probably dated 1859, or 1860, and would have had the Maynard Tape Primer lockplate ignition system.  The musket is all complete except it has a "Colt" lockplate instead of the proper Maynard Tape Primer Springfield or Harpers Ferry.  The musket has one blacksmith made barrel band, and the other two are regulation.  All this musket really needs to be a complete Model 1855 is a Maynard lockplate system.  The Colt lockplate it has could likely be traded toward a correct Maynard lockplate.  We are pricing this musket at pretty much one-half of the going rate so that there is plenty of room to locate a lockplate.--$1,250.

    Very attractive, 9 mm, pinfire 6-shot revolver.  The revolver is "Leige" marked on the cylinder and is complete, having the loading door, cartridge ejector rod, and lanyard ring all intact.  The action still works perfectly.  We are including an excavated 12 mm pinfire cartridge that I recovered here at Stones River to display with the revolver.  It is nicely toned with age but has no active rusting at all.--$750.

    We are talking SUPER RARE.  In 50 years having the Civil War store here at Stones River, I have only had three of these.  This is a complete lockplate and hammer assembly with main spring intact of a .69 cal. Model 1842 "Palmetto Armory" lockplate and hammer assembly.  The lockplate is marked, "PALMETTO ARMORY with the Palmetto tree in the center and "SC" below, and on the rear of the lockplate, "Columbia SC 1852".  This rare lockplate and hammer has been in the collection of my old friend, Jim Brandon, for the past 40 years.  This could very well be your only chance to own a Palmetto Armory, South Carolina, lockplate.--$850.

    Absolutely drop-dead beautiful, non-excavated, coat size, Confederate local, North Carolina State Seal uniform button with no blemishes whatsoever and 95% bright gold gilt.  The reverse has the Confederate local depressed channel with shank intact and also 95% bright gold gilt.  This is a button you rarely see non-excavated and this nice.--$650.

    Confederate tin drum canteen that was on display for many years in the private museum belonging to Ann and C.W. Webb at Lowell, Ark.  The canteen measures 6 inches in diameter and 2 inches in width.  Not only is it museum quality, but it was actually displayed IN A MUSEUM !!--$650.

    Excellent condition, non-excavated, coat size, gilted Confederate script "E" (Engineer) uniform button.  This button is in near perfect condition with about 95% bright gold gilt.  It has the "Van Wort" backmark and has shank intact.  About as pretty as they get.--$450.

    Very attractive, Model 1842, percussion single-shot horse pistol.  This was recently brought into the shop and was almost surely Southern carried.  The lockplate is marked, "US - 1854 - I.N.JOHNSON".  The action still works perfectly with a strong main spring.  The pistol has a wooden ram rod rather than the issued pivoting metal rod, and there is a military shield carved into the wood opposite the lockplate.--$795.

    Very nice condition, original Civil War Era surgeons pocket field kit.  This medical kit contains 15 pieces including numerous probes and scalpels.  All have ivory handles.  The case itself measures 7 by 6 inches in open position.  The kit has two compartments, and all the instruments remain in nice condition.  This medical kit was on display for a number of years in the private museum owned by Ann and C. W. Webb located in Lowell, Arkansas.--$595.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, non-excavated, silver, Federal 23rd Army Corp badge.  This badge has the classic Civil War "T-bar" attachment.  The Division represented is determined by the color fabric in the center of the pin.  1st Division is white, 2nd Division is red, and 3rd Division is blue.  This corp badge was on display for many years in the private museum owned by Ann and C.W. Webb in Lowell, Arkansas.--$595.

    Absolutely beautiful, excavated, SUPER SUPER RARE, solid cast brass, "CS in Star" coat size Confederate Texas uniform button.  This button was recovered many years ago from a Confederate camp located near Houston, Texas.  The button is a product of T. Miller Company in Houston.  This is one of the most sought after of the Texas buttons, and it is an absolute end-of-the-street beauty!!  This is one you will never need to upgrade.S--$6,500.

    Very rare to come by.  This is an original Model 1850 Federal Foot Officer's sword, and matching brass mounted leather scabbard.  The blade is clean with bright, sharp, crisp engraving top to bottom.  The scabbard remains in nice condition with full leather, and nicely gilted brass mounts.  The blade is crisply marked, "Tiffany & Co. - New York".  The sharkskin grip and brass wire remain 100% intact.  This sword and scabbard is out of a central Ohio estate and was almost certainly carried by an Ohio Infantry Officer.  It remains in nice enough condition that it could easily be in a museum.--$1,150.

    Absolutely beautiful, mint, unissued condition brown buff leather Federal waist belt with mint large size lead filled arrow hook pattern U.S. oval waist belt plate.  You won't find nicer because it was no nicer than this one is when issued during the Civil War.--$695.

    Very attractive, large size, lead-filled, US oval, arrow-hook pattern waist belt plate on a mint condition, brown buff leather belt.  The belt literally appears to be in unissued, like new condition.  On the belt is a .44/.36 cal. pistol ammunition box.  It has a regular US cartridge box plate on the outside flap.  This belt rig is in museum grade condition.--$950.

    Excellent condition, original, Model 1858, Federal bullseye canteen.  The canteen was in an Arkansas museum for many years.  IT has a complete butternut wool cover, stopper and chain, and complete line sling.  Every Civil War collection should have a nice original canteen.--$650.

    Extremely rare and in very pretty condition, .58 cal., "RICHMOND ARSENAL", 3-band, rifled percussion musket.  This musket has the "medium hump" lockplate and is marked, "CS - Richmond, VA. - 1862".  The musket has all three bands intact, original ram rod, and original brass butt plate.  The butt plate is stamped "3534", and that is likely a number that the soldier used to identify his musket.  The action remains crisp with a strong main spring.  The wood itself is actually "Richmond Arsenal" wood and not left over "Harper's Ferry" wood, as there is no cut-out for the Maynard primer system.  Historically, when you are able to find a "real deal" Richmond rifled musket, it is usually in "very used condition".  This .58 cal. Richmond rifled musket would be a very nice addition to any museum or Civil War display.--$13,500.

    Very attractive and rare, Confederate manufactured Cavalry saber.  This is a "Dog River" and was taken home to Wisconsin as a war trophy.  It was no doubt broken somewhere in battle and left on the field.  This saber has the classic Confederate unstopped fuller blade but is unfortunately broken about 8 or 10 inches from the tip.  The saber has the classic Confederate high copper content guard and has the leather and wire remaining intact.  This is a museum quality battlefield pick-up Confederate artifact.--$1,650.

    Very pretty condition, Model 1850, Field & Staff Officer's sword and brass mounted leather scabbard.  This sword and scabbard is out of a central Ohio estate and no doubt belonged to an Ohio Infantry Officer.  The blade remains clean and bright with beautiful, clear engraving top to bottom.  The leather grip is original and remains 100% tight and intact.  The leather scabbard is complete and in very nice condition.  The leather is a little weak where it joins the brass drag, and some reinforcing tape has been added there to strengthen the leather scabbard.  The brass mounts have a beautiful, gently aged patina, and any museum would be pleased to have this sword on display.--$1,150.

    Absolutely stunning beautiful condition, CS54A, coat size, Confederate Navy Officer's button.  This button has literally 100% bright gold gilt with a "Courtney & Tennent - Charleston" backmark with shank intact and some original thread still in the shank.  They just do not get prettier than this button is.--$750.

    Just brought in out of the local area, beautiful condition, Model 1840, "Old Wristbreaker" Confederate carried heavy Cavalry saber.  This saber has a bright, clean blade and is maker marked, "Sheble & Fisher, Philada."  The grip remains in nice condition with only one or two small chips.  The brass guard is perfect with a nice, aged, bronze patina.  The iron scabbard remains perfect without a single dent.  It would be hard to find a nicer example.--$895.

    Very pretty condition, Model 1860, light Cavalry Federal saber with matching scabbard.  This saber has a clean blade just beginning to tone with age.  It does not have even a single blade nick.  It is marked, "C. Roby - Chelmsford, Mass. - 1864".  The guard has a smooth, aged, brown, brass patina, and the grip is excellent.  The Model 1860 Cavalry saber is considered by most the classic Cavalry saber representing the American Civil War.--$975.

    Just brought in out of the local area, a Model 1841, .54 cal., Mississippi rifle.  This rifle shows lots of service with plenty of small dings and marks.  The soldier's initials, "WB" and "1862", are deeply cut into the stock.  The rifle was used for hunting and feeding the family following the war and has no remaining rifling so that buck can be used for hunting.  The lockplate is marked, "1848 - Robbins & Lawrence - Windsor VT".  The rifle still has the brass patch box and the original brass tip ram rod.  It may not be a grade 9 or 10, but it does sing "Dixie" loud and clear.  It is just a good, classic Southern relic.--$1,650.

    Really pretty, Confederate manufacture, Foot Officer's sword with gray/brown patina and unstopped fuller Confederate blade.  I believe this sword could be a product of E. J. Johnson of Macon, Georgia, but am not 100% certain which maker it is.  This sword is very well made, purely Confederate, and displays beautifully.--$2,850.

    Very nice condition excavated "high copper sabot" 3 inch "Selma Arsenal" Western Theater Confederate Read.  This projecrile was recovered near Atlanta, and is a beauty.  It literally has "knee deep" rifling on the VERY tall copper sabot.  It is a super rarity for one of these to come to market.--$1,250.SOLD

    Very attractive, 12 mm, French pinfire revolver.  This is the large caliber pinfire and very much resembles the famous "Lemat" revolver.  This revolver is serial number 4830 which is early war Civil War production.  The loading door and cartridge ejector rod both remain intact.  This would be an excellent addition to any Confederate display.--$1,150.

    Extremely rare and sought after "1863" date Richmond, VA. Confederate manufactured Cavalry carbine.  This rare carbine is wartime production, and was purchased about 40 years ago by Jim Brandon out of a local Richmond estate.  I purchased the carbine as a part of Jim's estate probably close to 20 years ago now.  I sold the carbine to a friend who has  had it until the current time.  It has a pretty - never cleaned - chocolate brown patina tip to tip.  The lockplate is marked "1863 - Richmond, VA", and the hammer locks firmly into both half cock and full cock.  The hammer is an old Springfield replacement, and appears to have been there since the Civil War era. This carbine carries a mystery with it.  It appears to have been originally carried by one Confederate who was apparently either killed or wounded.  The original Confederate owner had his name carved with a pen knife into the rear of the shoulder stock.  The "new owner" did not want a name on his gun that was not his own for fear that he may be killed and misidentified to his family, and they would therefore not know what happened to him.  It is quite common for the new owner of a Confederate gun to remove the previous owners name or initials and often put his own.  On this weapon, the original owner had his name and unit carved into the bottom of the butt stock.  You can still make out "Wickhams" Brigade, but I can only see a couple of letters of the soldier's name.  Wickham's Brigade and likely this weapon participated in the Battle of Williamsburg, the Seven Days' Battles, and the Second Manassas and Maryland campaigns.  Later the unit was involved in the conflicts at Fredericksburg, Kelly's Ford, Chancellorsville, Brandy Station, Upperville, Gettysburg, Bristoe, Mine Run, The Wilderness, Todd's Tavern, Spotsylvania, Haw's Shop, and Bethesda Church.    It is extremely rare at this point in time to find an honest, Confederate manufactured, Richmond carbine on the market for sale.--$7,500.

    If you are wondering what the "address" of this button is, it would be one of the last houses on Bad Ass Street!  This is a coat size Florida Territorial with 100% bright gold gilt, RMDC Scovill backmark, and the shank perfectly intact and straight.  This button has been in an Arkansas museum for the last 20 years or so.  Do not even think about ever upgrading this button.S--$2,500.

    Absolutely beautiful, non-excavated, super rare, Palmetto Guard Confederate uniform button.  This button has at least 90% original bright gold gilt with the reverse completely intact as well as the shank being intact.  This button has for many years been in the private Civil War Museum owned by Ann and C. W. Webb and located in Lowell, Arkansas.  This has always been considered one of the very rarest and most desirable Confederate buttons to obtain.  The motif is a Palmetto tree with a coiled snake going up the trunk and the letter "C" on one side of the Palmetto tree and "S" on the other side of the Palmetto tree.  The Palmetto Guard button is considered one of the "cornerstone buttons" of any advanced Confederate uniform button collection.--$2,850.

    Nice condition and quite rare, Model 1841, original "Mississippi Rifle".  This rifle remains in original .54 cal., and has a southern wedge-type rear site.  This rifle has smooth, gently aging, gray patina metal with lockplate markings of, "Tryon - 1847 - US - Philada - PA".  The stock remains in very nice condition with two inspector cartouches still faintly visible in the wood reverse side from the hammer.  It has the original brass tip ram rod, both sling swivels, brass patch box with extra nipple, and still has very decent rifling.  This Mississippi rifle almost certainly saw Confederate service and will be a fine addition to any collection.--$2,450.

    Very attractive Model 1863 Type II .58 cal. Springfield 3-band musket.  It was rifled originally, but is smoothbore now, and was no doubt used with "buck" to hunt game to help feed the family following the Civil War.  The musket is thought to have been brought home by a local Confederate - "James Vernon - 24th TN. INF." out of Nolensville - Williamson, Co. - TN.  The musket is all Model 1863 except the barrel and hammer which are Model 1861.  This musket displays nicely, has perfect action, and would still kill a squirrel for supper !!  Both sling swivels, long range site, and ram rod remain intact.--$1,250.

    Extremely rare, NON-EXCAVATED, 3.4 inch, Dahldren Federal Navy projectile for the Federal rifled boat howitzer.  This is a beautiful non-excavated example with full lead sabot and original cord.  These are called "blind shell shot" and were intended to disable and sink Naval vessels.  A non-excavated example WITH CORD is extremely rare to come by.--$1,450.

    Model 1860 Colt, .44 cal., 6-shot, percussion Army revolver.  This revolver has an all-matching serial number (including the wedge) of 52095.  This is a very desirable 1862 production date.  The revolver has a pleasing, aging, gray/brown patina overall and indexes well, locking in both half-cock and full-cock.  There is some wear making the barrel marking a bit dim, but it still can be seen.  This is a real deal Colt Army that has seen actual service, and that service quite possibly Confederate.--$1,595.

    Very attractive, regulation issue, Cavalry Gallager carbine, serial number 3058 which is reasonably early production.  This was a popular carbine with Federal Cavalry being used by the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 6th Ohio Volunteer Cavalry.  Also, it was carried by the 13th Tennessee Volunteer Cavalry (Union) and the 3rd West Virginia Cavalry (Union).  Interestingly, Mahlon J. Gallager, the inventor, was from South Carolina.  This is a good, solid Gallager carbine showing clear evidence of actual Civil War use.--$1,450.

    Very nice condition, Model 1860, Federal Naval Cutlass with a nice clean blade marked, "Ames - USN - 1862".  This Naval sword has a large brass hand guard and is just beginning to patina with age.  The leather scabbard is complete and original with brass rivets completely down the side.  It is only missing the very tip where there was a large brass rivet.--$950.

    Very pretty condition, excavated, large size, lead-filled, "SNY" (State of New York) waist belt plate.  This is the puppy-paw hook variety and was recovered near Cold Harbor, Virginia.  It has a brown/green, uncleaned patina, full lead, and all three hooks intact.--$895.

    Just brought in, and really nice .69 cal. Model 1816 "P. & E. W. BLAKE" musket originally produced in flintlock, and converted to percussion for Civil War use.  This is out of a local family that had 100% Confederate ancestry.  During the Civil War it would have fired "Buck and Ball" as well as a standard musket ball.  It has a pretty attic brown patina tip to tip, and has lockplate markings of "P. & E. W. BLAKE-1830-NEW HAVEN".  The action remains as tight and strong as during the Civil War.  There is still a clearly visible inspector cartouche in the wood opposite the lockplate and hammer.  If you have always wanted to own a really nice Confederate carried musket from the Civil War - here is your chance !!--$1,450.

    Very attractive, excavated, large oval, lead-filled, "SNY" (State of New York) waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered over 30 years ago from private property near Cold Harbor, Virginia.  It has a smooth, chocolate brown patina on the face with full lead and all three hooks present on the reverse.  This plate would make an excellent addition to any collection.--$895.

    Very pretty condition, excavated, large size, lead-filled, "VMM" (Volunteer Maine Militia) cartridge box plate.  The face has a smooth, chocolate brown patina, and the reverse has full lead.  This plate was recovered near Port Hudson, Louisiana.  It is without question one of the nicer ones I've seen come from that area.  This will be a fine addition to someone's plate collection.--$1,150.

    Very nice condition, excavated, "VMM" (Volunteer Maine Militia).  This plate was recovered about 40 years ago from a Maine Infantry camp located near the Berkley Plantation in Virginia.  It has a very nice, uncleaned, brown/green patina on the face with full lead and both wire loops intact on the reverse.  This is a very nice example.--$1,150.

    Beautiful excavated large size oval "VMM" (Volunteer Maine Militia) cartridge boxplate.  This plate was recovered about 40 years ago on private property near Port Hudson, LA.  The face has a slick chocolate brown patina and sharp, crisp letters and the plate has literally never even been rinsed off.  The plate is the pattern ""VMM" with very little lead in the back - Actually just barely enough to keep the wire loops in place.  Rusty residue of the wire loops still remains.  This is one of the prettiest "VMM"s from that area that I have seen.--$1,150.

    Very attractive, excavated, large size, cast brass, Confederate "fork-tongue" frame waist belt plate.  This buckle was recovered from General Hardee's Jan. 3 -June 25, 1863, Confederate Infantry camp located near Tullahoma, Tennessee.  It shows actual use with visible wear, and has a very nice - never cleaned brown-green patina.--$895.

    Very pretty condition, excavated, 10-pound, "flat top" Parrott bolt projectile.  This Parrott bolt was recovered about 40 years ago on private property at Vicksburg, Mississippi.  It is the rarer iron sabot variety and is cleaned, coated, and ready to display.--$850.

    Absolutely pristine beautiful condition, non-excavated, large size, lead-filled "SNY" (State of New York) cartridge box plate.  This beautiful plate came out of a central New York estate about 45 years ago.  The soldier's name (D. E. Dunn) is cut with a pen knife into the face of the plate.  The name's patina is consistent with the rest of the plate and is no doubt Civil War Era.  We attempted to locate him, but there seemed to be unending choices.  The plate has a rich, aged patina, full lead, and both attachment loops intact.--$975.

    Absolutely drop dead beautiful excavated coat size 90 % bright gold gilted North Carolina Sunburst Confederate uniform button.  The reverse is beautiful as well with gold gilt everywhere, and shank intact.--$975.

    Very nice condition, Model 1840 heavy Cavalry saber and matching scabbard.  This saber has a smooth, never cleaned, chocolate patina with a bright blade just beginning to gray with age.  The blade is marked, "Horstmann - Phila."  This was a very popular Cavalry saber among Confederates in Middle Tennessee.  If you have been waiting for a nice Cavalry saber to represent your Confederate ancestry, this one is perfect!!--$895.

    Very attractive, Model 1865, Spencer 7-shot repeating carbine with a 20 inch barrel.  The Model 1865 Spencer was issued to the military at the very end of the Civil War, and more importantly, during the Indian Wars Era.  This example has crisp action, nice deep rifling, and is marked on the barrel, "Model 1865 - Spencer Repeating Rifle - Manuf'd by Burnside Rifle Co. - etc."  The carbine remains in very nice condition and completely functional but does show honest wear from actual use.  This carbine is serial number 3629 which is quite early production.--$1,850.

    Very attractive, Model 1860, .44 cal., Colt 6-shot percussion revolver.  This revolver has an all-matching serial number of 30672 which is quite early Colt production "1862".  It is a very sought after "4-screw" which is cut for taking a shoulder stock.  The revolver has a smooth, gray, aging patina overall, and the action still works well.  It came out of a local Middle Tennessee estate and quite likely saw Confederate service.--$2,650.

    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.--$3,500.

    Super scarce, huge 26 mm, coat size, Confederate Staff Officer button with "CSA" in the shield, near 100% bright gold gilt, and rare "Courtney & Tennent" backmark.  This button is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful of all Confederate uniform buttons.  This is CS1A1 in Albert, and I do not believe it possible to find a more beautiful and perfect example.--$1,950.

    Extremely rare to find - Model 1832 cast brass Artillery 2 Piece Sword Belt Plate on its original white buff waist belt complete with the original white buff carrying "saddle" for the Model 1832 Artillery Short Sword.  If you have a Model 1832 Artillery Short Sword and Scabbard, this is all you need for a museum level display.  The white buff is now "tanned" with age and use, but remains very strong and pliable.  This is a belt rig that you rarely see available complete and undamaged.--$1,150.

    Very attractive, .69 cal., Model 1816, smooth bore musket converted from flint to percussion.  This musket has lockplate markings of "Springfield - 1829" and has a smooth, dark, never cleaned patina.  It is out of a local estate and has been fired a great deal to the point that flash from the nipple has literally burnt a hole in the wood right behind the nipple.  This is a very typical Southern carried musket, especially during the early years of the Civil War.  It would have fired .69 cal. buck and ball.--$1,150.

    .Very attractive Model 1850 "Horstmann and Sons" Foot officer sword in original leather scabbard.  This sword was recently purchased out of a local Tennessee estate, and has the name "Helmer Hansson" engraved into the middle mount.  I have looked in a couple places, and don't seem to see Helmer.  The sword has a clean blade with light engraving, but was broken about 9 inches from the tip, and has been repaired.  The sword has a very ornate guard, but is missing the very back of it. It looks like it could have been intentionally removed to form an "S" guard.  The leather scabbard remains with the sword, but the brass tip has been lost off.  There are loose Foot Officer Sword brass drags available at almost every Civil War Show, so getting a replacement brass drag should be no real problem.  If this sword did not have the couple issues, you would expect it to be priced at $1,250. or so.  Here is your "deal of the day"  --- Priced at less than HALF !!--$595.

    Here is a Civil War Cavalry Saber with a TON of "COOLNESS FACTOR" going on.  It is a nice quality Model 1860 Federal light cavalry saber.  It has blade markings of "Ames - 1863 - ADK (Alias D. King) - Ames Mfg. Co. - Chicopee, Mass".  The saber has been "jeweler enhanced" to officer grade.  This saber is out of a local family, and I believe that it was Confederate carried.  The soldier made "officer" and I believe that the soldier wanted to keep his saber, and it was engraved to indicate "officer".  The leather on the grip was decayed, and was replaced about 40 years ago.  I will pass along to the buyer the Confederate's name that "I believe" likely carried this very cool  saber.--$1,250.

    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.

    Absolutely beautiful condition, Model 1839, "baby US" on original white buff waist belt being worn upside down so as to read "Southern Nation".  This belt rig is out of a north Alabama family and has a very nice condition CONFEDERATE MANUFACTURE cap box on the belt rig.  You will not get more solid Confederate than this rig, and it remains in first-class, museum grade condition.--$1,450.

     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.

    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 !!!!

    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 !!!

    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.