Code: 12007
The sword of Thomas Fielden (1854-October 1897) of the 24th Lancashire Rifle Volunteer Corps.
The sword, of 1822/45 pattern, was retailed by Lewis Sons, and Parker, St James's St, London. They operated as a clothier and military tailor from 18 St James Street under this name between 1864 and 1892.
Unusually but not uniquely, this example has the gothic brass hilt of 1822 infantry pattern, rather than the more commonly seen rifles pattern of 1827. It is in very good order, with no serious knocks or deformation. It is the later pattern without folding inner guard. The grip of shagreen bound with twistwire is in equally good condition, being complete, and free from loss or serious wear/damage. The sword is fitted with its original bullion sword knot.
The regulation 1845 pattern 32 inch blade is in very good condition, retaining a good proportion of its original polish. Retailers marking to the ricasso, and brass proof slug to the other (Filled with old polish!) The etching is crisp and bright, the owners name within a vertical banner "Thos Fielden". Above this are the numerals"24th" and "Lancashire R.V". Some light staining and areas of spotting, but generally very clean.
The blade is also decorated with the crowned royal VR cypher, as well as foliage and decorative swags. The blade blade is firm in the hilt, with no movement.
Housed in its original steel scabbard with twin suspension rings. Generally bright, with some light discolouration and light rust, particuarly towards the drag.
Overall a very good example of the pattern, which would benefit from a light clean.
Thomas Fielden, the eldest surviving son of Joshua Fielden, was born in Todmorden in 1854. After being educated at Wellington College and Trinity College, Cambridge, Thomas joined the family cotton business, Fielden Brothers.
He became a Captain in the 24th LRVC on the 21st August, 1878.
In 1878 Thomas married Martha Knowles, the daughter of Thomas Knowles, the Conservative MP for Wigan. In the 1886 General Election, Thomas became MP for Middleton.
Thomas lost the seat at the 1892 General Election by 116 votes but regained it in the 1895 General Election with a majority of 865. Although a loyal supporter of the Marquess of Salisbury and his government, Thomas never spoke in a debate in the House of Commons.
Thomas Fielden, the father of six young children, died of a heart-attack while shooting grouse at Amulree in October 1897. Thomas' son, Edward Fielden, became the new chairman of Fielden Brothers, a post he was to hold until 1939. Fielden Brothers ceased trading in 1966.
Lots of information about Thomas and the Fielden family can be found online, a reasonable starting point is his Wikipedia entry, which has an image of him HERE.
Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched. Please send this at the time of ordering, to prevent unnecessary delay in your order being dispatched.
