Knife, Bowie

 
Skip to main content
Collections Menu
Collections Categories Exhibitions Bibliography Favorites About
Knife, Bowie
Knife, Bowie
Knife, Bowie
Knife, Bowie

Knife, Bowie

Object number1987.046.04
Dateca 1840
Mediumsilver, ebony
Dimensions14 in. (35.6 cm)
Credit LineOld State House Museum Collection
Terms
  • Knife, Bowie
Description14" Bowie-type knife with 8 3/4" blade. Has motto "Arkansan Toothpick" etched in large script on blade. Engraved in script along back edge "Manufactured for F.C. Goergen, New Orleans". Distinctly made hilt of German silver with relief fluted shell motiff on pommel. Checked black ebony grips. Only five known examples of this knife. All but one have etched blades. Two are inscribed "Arkansan Toothpick" and one is engraved "Mississippi Toaster". The fourth is inscribed "My Knife, My Wife". Each knife has identical one piece ebony grips, etched octagonal panels with beaded edges and the engraved signature of Goergen on the blades.

F.C. Goergen of New Orleans was known for making such humorous collectible knives during the 1840s.
Status
Not on view
Collections