My ancestor served in the 6th Regiment Kentucky Volunteers, Company I. He was a Private first class and was severely wounded in the Battle of Shiloh, although he survived and lived a pretty long life.
A sabre was passed down in the family to my Grandfather, who is still alive but very old, and he has now passed it on to his son, my Uncle.
We always assumed he was issued the sabre, and this might be the case, but it seems strange to me that a private would be given a sabre.
Was this standard practice? It looks more ceremonial than anything else, from what I recall, and it doesnt look like it was ever... used.
Thanks!
Can you describe the saber? Does it look like one of these: https://imgur.com/a/QzXMqOI ? Are there any markings or inscriptions on it? PFCs were not issued sabers, but NCOs and foot officers were. It's also possible it was presented to him by his hometown or family when he returned from service. This was not an uncommon practice, especially if, as you say, it appears ceremonial. NCO swords were made to be functional (although not very practical), and typically have little ornamentation on them. Do you have any other information on his wartime service? Was he discharged after his wounding at Shiloh?