Item No. 8906415

An original 19th-century example of one of the most famous and highly sought-after Bowie knives of the Civil War era: the legendary “Rio Grande Camp Knife,” manufactured by William Jackson & Co. at their Sheaf Island Works in Sheffield, England.

This specific pattern occupies a prominent place in American history due to its infamous association with the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Both John Wilkes Booth and his co-conspirator, Lewis Powell, carried this exact model of the Jackson spearpoint Bowie during their coordinated attacks on April 14, 1865. Known for its imposing presence and robust construction, the Rio Grande Camp Knife was widely imported into the United States during the 1850s and 1860s, becoming a favorite sidearm among soldiers on both sides of the war.

The ricasso is marked “Wм JACKSON & Co / SHEAF ISLAND WORKS / SHEFFIELD.” And then on the blade itself, near the spine, is marked “RIO GRANDE CAMP KNIFE.”

The knife features a formidable 10-inch steel spearpoint blade, which was the standard maximum size produced for the model. The heavy full-tang construction is paired with beautifully stag horn scales. The grip retains its original blank German silver nameplate inlay. The stag has matured to a rich, warm honey-yellow color from generations of handling. The scales are tightly affixed to the tang by the original, flush-cut German silver pins.

The blade is in untouched “as-found” condition, displaying a deep, dark gray historical patina, localized pitting, and scattered oxidation. The cutting edge shows old sharpening wear and several minor flea-bites from period use. The robust German silver crossguard fits loosely and will slide up the ricasso when held, but remains in place nicely when on display. No sheath is present.