Sword
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
William Hayden
(died 1669)
MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1637
MediumSteel, iron, brass, horn
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width of hilt): 31 1/2 x 7 1/8in. (80 x 18.1cm)
ClassificationsWeapons
Credit LineGift of Reverend Thomas Robbins
Object number1839.1.0
DescriptionThis sword is described as a cutting sword, and has a flat, slightly curved blade, a double-curved quillion, pierced and decorated counterguards, a staghorn grip, and no pommel.
Label TextSergeant William Hayden (d. 1669), of Hartford and Windsor, Connecticut, carried this sword during the Pequot War conducted by Captain John Mason. The Pequot Indians had attacked the English settlers in Wethersfield killing John Oldham in 1637. In retribution for this murder, the colonists mounted an attack on the Indian's fort in Mystic, burning the fort and killing the survivors. The story that accompanies the sword is that Hayden used it to save the life of his commander, Captain Mason, reputedly using this sword to cut through the bow-string of one of the Pequot warriors aiming his weapon at Mason.
NotesHistorical Note: This sword was the first object to be entered into the collections of the Connecticut Historical Society.Status
On view
