Among the most significant artifacts we have had the privilege to showcase in our 25 years of business is this U.S. M1852 Naval Officer’s Sword, a historical treasure directly tied to one of America’s most defining moments. This sword, with its indisputable provenance, once belonged to Lt. (jg) Delmar Hayes Barnes, a dedicated officer aboard the USS Arizona.
History Behind the Sword
Born in Chicago on November 23, 1900, Barnes enlisted in the U.S. Navy at just 16 years old on March 15, 1917, eager to serve in World War I. His dedication led him to rise through the ranks, earning a commission as Chief Electrician (Warrant Officer) on December 29, 1925. Over his distinguished career, he served on numerous vessels, including the USS Nanshan, USS Brooklyn, and USS Charleston as an enlisted man, and later as an officer aboard the USS Medusa, USS Pittsburgh, USS Oklahoma, USS Dobbin, and ultimately the USS Arizona.
On December 7, 1941, Barnes was among the brave sailors who perished during the attack on Pearl Harbor. His remains rest within the USS Arizona, and his name is immortalized on the memorial that honors those lost in the attack.
This sword stands as a remarkable relic of that fateful day. It was aboard the Arizona at the time of the attack and later recovered by Navy divers during the salvage operations that followed. The Navy returned the sword to Barnes’ widow, and through the years, it was passed down within his family, ultimately reaching us through his grand-nephews and nieces. The sword remains in its original condition, aside from careful preservation efforts and a wartime repair to its scabbard. It still bears its original leather scabbard, portapee, and grip wrap, each displaying the wear of time and exposure to saltwater. The blade is proudly etched with “D.H. BARNES USN,” and the original Navy recovery tag, simply labeled “Barnes,” remains attached, a testament to its history.
Barnes’ legacy is one of perseverance and sacrifice. From enlisting as a teenager, serving through two World Wars, and ascending to the rank of officer, his service embodies the values that have shaped the United States military. His story is one of dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to his country.
Additional Artifacts of Interest:
· “Cruisin’ Around With the Governor General” (1931): A rare publication detailing the goodwill cruise of the USS Pittsburgh (CA-4) through Indo-China. Barnes’ personal copy bears his name, “ELEC. D.H. BARNES, USN,” and confirms his participation in the mariner tradition of crossing the Equator as a “Shellback.”
· “Crossing the Line” (USS Arizona, July 1940): A commemorative booklet printed aboard the USS Arizona celebrating the crew’s Equator crossing. Barnes’ name appears in the “Roster of Shellbacks.” These publications were produced exclusively for crew members, making surviving copies exceptionally rare.
· Oakland Tribune Article (December 16, 1941): A newspaper clipping reporting Barnes’ passing, published where his wife worked. The article includes photographs of both Barnes and his wife, offering a personal glimpse into his life and service.
We encourage history enthusiasts and collectors to explore our website, where many other remarkable historical relics are available for purchase.
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