In good condition, the George V Border Regiment Officer’s Wilkinson Sword of Lt. William David Cargill Thompson.
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Serial number 59724 for 1922; the Wilkinson sales ledger confirms this sword was sold to Lt. W.D. Cargill Thompson, Border regt.
From Glasgow, Scotland. William David Cargill Thompson, nephew of David Sime Cargill (founder of Burmah Oil), father of William David James Cargill Thompson (Author and Professor of Ecclesiastical History, University of London), Helen Cargill Thompson (Scientist and more), and John Cargill Thompson (Once Britain’s most prolific playwright). Fought and was wounded in World War One. Went to Burma and Ceylon (Sri Lanka) as a merchant trader in the 20’s, traded as East India merchants in Glasgow. The business in Ceylon was once known as the ‘Harrods of Colombo’. In Ceylon / Burma, William David Cargill Thompson served as a Captain with the Indian Army Reserve of Officers. The family returned to Glasgow in 1939, just before WW2 broke out. William David Cargill Thompson then served with the Royal Artillery Ordnance Corps during WW2.
The leather field service scabbard is no more. We understand William David Cargill Thompson wore the sword with this dress scabbard well into later civilian life, particularly in Burma & Ceylon.
We bought this and his earlier WW1 sword from his deceased daughter’s estate.
The 32 1/4 inch blade is in good condition and firm in the hilt. The hilt with some age / patina spots is good. The fishskin grip and twisted grip wire bindings are good; some wear / shrinkage showing one side under the pommel. The plated steel scabbard is good but some plating wear. The sword sheathes and draws well.
There is lots of research potential as to the life of William David Cargill Thompson, who even has his own family crest / coat of arms. Worth every penny of £600. Please quote item reference X84. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1351-121x19x16 (2.405).
