Major Frank West’s (MOH) 1881 6th US Cavalry Shoulder Knots -SOLD

Description

Frank West (1850-1923), U.S. Army officer, USMA Class of 1872.   Assigned to the 6th U.S. Cavalry, serving the Southwest, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for actions at the Battle of Big Dry Wash, Arizona Territory, on July 17, 1882.  The citation reads, “Rallied his command and led it in the advance against the enemy’s fortified position.”  The award was made 1892.

West continued to serve in the 6th Cavalry, raising to the rank of captain, then transferred to the 9th Cavalry in 1900. Promoted to major in 1901, and went back to the 6th Cavalry.  LtCol. 5th Cavalry in March of 1903. Breveted 1st lieutenant February 1890 for gallant service in action against Indians on the Washita River, Texas, 9-11, 1874.  Frank West’s last command was as colonel of the 2nd Cavalry.  He retired in 1914.

Along with his shoulder knots is a journal he began in the late part of his career as colonel of the 2nd Cavalry.  This inch thick journal appears to have begun in 1909, and first contains clippings concerning many manners military, including eulogies of fellow officers, notes on equipment, training, transportation, more, all with his annotations. These first 47 pages range in subjects going back to the Napoleonic wars, Civil War. and local history.

Beginning on page 268 to the end of the journal at page 319, all in West’s hand is the family history, “Sims History, Fort Dayton”  this includes information on battles during the Revolution, history of various towns during that time in Herkimer County, New York (West was from Herkimer). Also information on forts in the Mohawk Valley, much more. It is not known if he intended to write a history of Herkimer County, or was this for his own edification.  A wealth of information here, all unrelated to West’s military career, but concerning his New York roots.  In the front of the journal was a printed invitation by the Governor General of Malacanan, in the Philippine Islands and a card made out to him dated July 27th, 1910.

The knots are made (or retailed by)  by Leopold Magnus, New York.  There is an even darker toning to the gilt bullion overall, Golden yellow wool is fine. Both cuff sized eagle “C” buttons are present.

These items have been coming from a source who I have been purchasing Col. West’s material for some time now, including uniforms, journals, photos, and paper.  These are guaranteed to belong and worn by then Major West.

Cavalry insignia of this nature is highly sought after uniform insignia, but rarely is offered this items belonging to a Medal of Honor recipient.

Image of West courtesy of “Find a Grave.”