Hi all

I am a new member.

I just inherited two swords which I have idenitified as 1885 pattern British Cavalry swords (correct me if I am wrong)

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01009.jpg

After I cleaned them up they looked like this:

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01031.jpg

These are the only marks I can see:

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01031.jpg

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01039.jpg

I am now wanting to mount the swords in a timber box with glass window on the wall. I wish to include a brief bography and some photographic display. I would appreciate input into the following:

1. Any recommendation as to the appropriate mounting pattern
2. A brief background as to the history of both the swords generically and (if possible) individully
3. Any photgraphic evidence of such a sword being carried in period

Thanks heaps for any input fellas.

Monty

The photo links aren't working...

sorry mate, I suck at the internet. Try again

Cheers

'ello Monty,

Try www.oldswords.com for a multitude of photos..you'll have to register first, but it's free. Mark Cloke
has done a brilliant job with this web-site.

I'll try and dig up more background info. on the 1885''s when I get home this eve..after work. (that's if someone hasn't already provided the info. you've requested).

Nice pieces BTW !!!!

Cheers,

Bill

Cheers Bill

As a newbie to this stuff all help is very much appreciated

Yep, they now work.

Have you got any photos of the blade?

yeah, hold on a tick and I will upload them

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01044.jpg

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01046.jpg

http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m133/monza...a01045.jpg

The swords certainly cleaned up very nicely, Monty. Congratulations on the acquisitions!

Yeah thanks fellas,

whilst I appreciate everyones responses so far it seem like all I have is bagging of the sword about how crap it was. I will not be printing that for the mounting. You must remeber I wish to present these unique items to my friends and family.

Does anyone have anything positive and instructive to add such as the campaigns in which they were involved?

Was it seriously that bad?

Monty,
Although the 1885 is a much maligned sword, at least according to some, I believe it enjoyed a relatively long life (by Victorian standards) as a weapon used by Yeoman Cavalry units. If the pattern was complete rubbish, I think it would have been discarded faster than it was. If you are interested in learning about the conflicts in which this pattern might have been used, try here. It is a section of www.regiments.org --a very useful site for information on British regiments and its wars. A cursory look suggests that this pattern probably saw action in the 1st Sudan War, West Africam Rhodesia, the 3rd Burma War, etc. You will want to examine the specific engagements to see what units were present, but this site should give you an idea of where the 1885 saw service. I have recently begun reading Byron Farwell's Queen Victoria's Little Wars. It is a fun read, if a little old-fashioned in some of the worldviews and language used (it's from the '70s, I think). When I get home this evening I will see what I can find regarding specific information on the pattern, photos, etc.

Jonathan

Monty,
I have not had any luck with photos. I can show you how this sword would have been worn on a saddle, however. (See attachment). Also, please check your PMs.

Jonathan

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British P1890 and P1899 cavalry swords from a back issue of "Military Illustrated".