British 1757 Pattern Highland Basket Hilted Backsword by Drury, Third Quarter 18th C

Description

After the fall of the Jacobite Rebellion in 1746, the Scottish Highlands were largely cleared
of those who took part in the rebellion and severe restrictions were placed on those who
remained. It became very difficult for many to earn a living in the harsh climate and rocky
soil, so many had little choice but to become soldiers in the very British Army that had
defeated them. Recognizing the value of Scottish fighting men and also in an attempt to
unite the kingdom, the British Army formed a number of Highland regiments, one of which
was the famous 42nd, or “Black Watch” regiment. The straight-bladed basket-hilted
broadswords and backswords were a favorite among the Scots, so the British developed a
pattern of cheaply-made swords of this style to equip these newly-formed regiments. Thus
began the life of what is generally known today as the 1757 Pattern basket-hilted
backsword. Blades were made by a number of subcontractors, such as Samuel Harvey of
Birmingham. Nathaniel Jeffreys of Westminster and Dru Drury of Lad Lane, Wood Street in
London provided finished swords. This example features the signature sheet iron basket
guard with conical pommel, lightly stamped with unit markings “I/No II” on the basket front
plate; wood grip (split and loose), missing its wrap. Single-edged 32″ (81.2 cm) blade with
3/4-length fuller at the back edge, clearly stamped with a crown over “GR” over “DRURY” on
both sides. Hilt with pitting, dark patina, and areas of rust. The blade with patches of
pitting, rust patina, and numerous shallow edge nicks; markings sharp and clear. Metal with
protective wax coating. Overall length 38 1/4″ (97 cm). Many of these swords saw service
in America during the French and Indian War and American Revolution. This example, like
most, shows considerable age and wear typical of a long service life.