Commodore John Barry's Cutlass
Artifact IDMO 63.3250a
Object Type
Sword
Date
late 18th century
Medium
Steel, gold, copper/brass, wood, horn (?)
DimensionsOverall L 33 in (83.8 cm)
Physical DescriptionSteel sword said to have belonged to Commodore John Barry. The cutlass has a single curved full blade, split knuckle guard, and turned wooden hilt. The blade is inscribed "Pro Gloria Et Patria" (for glory and country), and has an engraved maker's mark (?). The handle has a gilt, gargoyle head pommel from whose mouth extends the guard. The blade has numerous nicks..
Historical NotePresident Kennedy hung this cutlass, which purportedly belonged to Commodore John Barry (1745-1803), in the Oval Office of the White House. Commodore Barry, born in Wexford, Ireland, was appointed by George Washington to create and later to command the first U.S. Navy. He is often referred to as "Father of the American Navy".
Additional DetailsCustodial History NoteThis item is material associated with the White House, the Kennedy Administration, and the Executive Offices of the President. It was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesKennedy Administration Collection 1960-1963 (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
Related Links
