Civil War period, engraved on the guard "Presented to Th. Scherrer by the Members of the Germania Fire Engine Co. # 3, Dec. 12, 1861, Peoria, Ills." Wire wrapped sharkskin grip, brass hilt, etched blade.

Weight (Lbs): 2.8
Height (In.): 39.5
Width (In.): 6
Depth (In.): 3.5
Size: 189.5 x 4.0 x 4.0"
Maker: Unknown
Material: Steel, brass
Date: 1861
Provenance: Th. Scherrer
Condition: Excellent, toning at throat end from hanging with the blade partially out, as found in the home. Light rust on scabbard and small dent, two tiny nicks in the blade.
History: Germania Fire Company, No. 3, was organized in 1853, and received a charter from the Legislature by Act of February 14, 1855. Their first engine was made by Kufferle of St. Louis. In 1860, they received a new engine which in 1867 they donated to the city, and purchased a steam fire engine, a part of the price being paid by the city. They kept their first engine in an old blacksmith shop on Washington Street until 1854, when the city built them an engine house on Liberty Street on the south corner of the alley between Adams and Washington Streets. The hall on the second floor of this building was a rallying place for the Germans for a long time. There August Schultz taught a school by day and there one of their singing societies held forth at night. This company was also the winner of many prizes in tournaments and did most valuable service in the extinguishing of fires.