Description
This beautiful classic American pocket watch once belonged to Morris D. Vance. Morris served during the Civil War as Sergeant in Harrell’s Battalion, Arkansas Cavalry, C.S.A. In the CONFEDERATE VETERAN magazine (June 1926), p. 204, it states that “Gen. M.D. Vance, of Little Rock, Ark., who served in the war with Gen. W.L. Cabell’s Brigade, one of the hardest-fighting detachments of the Confederate army, was elected Commander in Chief, U.C.V. [United Confederate Veterans] He is also Commander of the State Division.” This same issue includes a portrait of him on the front cover. His rank as General is from the United Confederate Veterans.
Vance likely wore this fine old timepiece to many reunions with his fellow soldiers. It was purchased at an antique shop in Arkansas about a month ago and his name and the date 1912 is scratched inside the back of the inner gold case.
Based on the serial number, the watch was manufactured in 1912. I wound it up and let it run overnight and it didn’t lose ANY time at all! Likely could use a good cleaning if you intend to carry it.
