A Civil War Surgeon’s Sword Returns Home to New Brunswick
A remarkable piece of Canadian-American history has returned to its roots: a ceremonial sword belonging to Dr. John F. Stevenson, a New Brunswick doctor who served in the American Civil War. The sword, a testament to Stevenson’s dedication and service, has found its new home at the Loyalist House museum in Saint John, New Brunswick, where it will be on display starting this summer. The acquisition of this artifact represents a significant moment for the museum and for the preservation of the often-overlooked history of Canadian involvement in the American Civil War.
The story of the sword’s return began with a chance encounter on social media. Troy Middleton, vice-president of Loyalist House and president of the 20th Maine Co., a non-profit group dedicated to researching Atlantic Canadians who served in the Civil War, spotted the sword for sale on Facebook. Recognizing the historical significance of the item and its connection to New Brunswick, Middleton and the New Brunswick Historical Society, which operates the Loyalist House, immediately launched a fundraising campaign to secure the sword. The society successfully raised the required $6,200, and with a generous donation of a display case from the Canadian Museum of History, the sword’s journey home was complete.
Dr. John F. Stevenson’s life was a compelling blend of academia, medical service, and unwavering commitment. Born in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, in 1836, he pursued a rigorous academic path, graduating from King’s College (now the University of New Brunswick) and attending Harvard Medical School. Upon returning to New Brunswick in 1861, he began his medical practice. However, the outbreak of the American Civil War stirred a sense of duty within him, leading him to offer his services to the United States Medical Corps in 1864. He was assigned to the 29th Connecticut Infantry, a regiment composed of African-American soldiers, a significant detail underscoring Stevenson’s commitment to the cause of emancipation.
The ceremonial sword itself is a relic of a time when such items were symbols of rank and honor. The nickel-plated steel blade bears intricate engravings, reflecting the craftsmanship of the era. As a medical officer, Stevenson would not have used the sword in combat; rather, it served as a dress sword, a symbol of his position and authority within the medical corps. Such ceremonial swords from the 19th century are rare, making this artifact even more valuable. Its return to New Brunswick offers a tangible connection to a period of significant historical change.
The American Civil War, a defining moment in American history, also drew participants from beyond the borders of the United States. An estimated 50,000 Canadians, including a significant number from the Maritime provinces, played various roles in the conflict, a fact often overlooked in Canadian historical narratives. Middleton’s research has shed light on the contributions of these individuals, including the identification of 29 Black Canadians who served in the 29th Connecticut Infantry, several of whom hailed from New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The participation of numerous doctors from Atlantic Canada, likely drawn by the opportunity to gain valuable medical experience, adds another layer to this transborder historical tapestry.
Dr. Stevenson’s service in the Civil War was tragically cut short by illness. He passed away in New York in 1865 while en route back to New Brunswick. His remains were returned home, and he is buried in the St. Andrews rural cemetery. The New Brunswick Historical Society plans to organize a ceremony at his gravesite to honor his service and memory. This commemoration will serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Canadians like Stevenson during the American Civil War.
The return of Dr. Stevenson’s sword is more than just the acquisition of a historical artifact. It is a symbol of a life dedicated to service, a testament to the often-forgotten Canadian involvement in the American Civil War, and a tangible link to a pivotal era in North American history. The sword’s display at the Loyalist House museum will offer visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the past, to learn about a New Brunswicker who played a role in one of the most consequential conflicts of the 19th century, and to reflect on the enduring legacies of duty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom. The sword’s journey, from the battlefields of the Civil War to a quiet museum in Saint John, is a powerful reminder of the enduring power of history and the importance of preserving the stories of those who shaped our world. It is, as Middleton aptly describes, a full circle moment.
