Medal of Honour Recipient
1865 Presentation Sword awarded to Col. St. Clair Augustine Mulholland, later promoted to Maj. Gen by President Andrew Johnson.
The patterns on the sword are reminiscent of the French Empire style, popular during the Napoleonic era and early 19th century.
- Eagle head pommel: The eagle was a symbol of the French Empire and frequently used on military regalia.
- Laurel wreath motif: Laurels symbolized victory and were commonly used in French Empire design.
- Intricate floral patterns: The flowing, stylized floral patterns were also characteristic of the period.
- Gilt brass hilt and scabbard: The use of gilt brass was common on French military swords of the time.
The sword is likely a French military officer’s sword from the early 19th century, used during the Napoleonic Wars and the US Civil War.
The Battle of Boydton Plank Road
Awarded by his own division (‘A’ Company of the 116th Pennsylvania Infantry) for Heroic Service in the Battle of Boydton Plank Road, Virginia which took place in 1964.
Battle of Chancellorsville
For his brave defensive efforts in April 1863 in the Battle of Chancellorsville, St Clair Augustin Mulholland was later awarded the Medal of Honour by Congress in 1895, the last such medal awarded for the US Civil War.
Promotion
Highly regarded by US President Andrew Johnson, Mulholland was promoted in 1869 to Brevet Major General for his actions at Boydton Plank Rd.
Only 1,367 other officers from the Civil War were awarded the same rank (Brevet Major General) by the President, mostly in 1865. When awarded by the President, this promotion allowed both a higher position and rate of pay for the remainder of their military service.
St Clair was also awarded the companion of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.
