O-5612.1

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sword

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Sergeant-at-Arms

Sergeants-at-Arms' Sword

The Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons is responsible for security and acts on directions from the Speaker to maintain order in the Chamber. In keeping with the historic nature of the role, a sword is worn as part of the officer’s uniform. Six different swords have been used by successive Sergeants-at-Arms since Confederation in 1867. This sword is the last in that series and has been worn by every Sergeant-at-Arms since 1978. It is a court sword, the shorter and lighter descendant of the rapier. Made from cut steel with a triangular blade, it is designed for thrusting rather than cutting. The object is dated to about 1840 and at one time was refurbished by the famous British sword company Wilkinson Sword, but its original designer and maker are unknown. Major-General Maurice Gaston Cloutier, the longest serving Sergeant-at-Arms at the House of Commons, was the first to carry this sword.