Scalpel

Description

Medical scalpel with white ivory handle owned by General Richard N. Bowerman (1831-1920) during the Civil War. Bowerman served during the Civil War, first as a captain in the 11th New York Volunteer Infantry, then as colonel and commander of the 4th Maryland Volunteer Infantry. He was brevetted brigadier general, US Volunteers on April 1, 1865 for "gallantry and good conduct at the battle of Five Forks, Va.". He served in the United States Regular Army until he resigned in 1867 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Bowerman was wounded near the Weldon Railroad in Virginia on August 21, 1864. It is possible that this instrument was used in the medical care he received that day.