The Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps Historical Society has been presented with a unique opportunity to acquire the personal effects and wartime artifacts of Lt. Jacob T. Zug of Company H, 7th Pennsylvania Reserves.
A native of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, Lt. Zug was wounded at the Battle of Fredericksburg in December 1862. His injuries ultimately required the amputation of his arm, and he was subsequently captured by Confederate forces before eventually returning home.
The collection includes Lt. Zug’s wartime sword and scabbard, the vest he wore during his military service, his pocket watch, original photographs, a collection of letters and documents, and a postwar cane containing a deformed musket ball believed to be associated with the wound that cost him his arm.
Most remarkably, these artifacts have remained together as a single historical grouping for generations. They provide a rare and deeply personal record of one Pennsylvania Reservist’s service and sacrifice during the American Civil War.
The current owner originally acquired the collection for nearly $10,000 and has generously offered it to the Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps Historical Society for $3,500 in recognition of our preservation mission.
If we are unable to secure the collection, it will likely be dispersed through individual sales. While the artifacts themselves may survive, the story they collectively tell, and the historical relationship between them—would be permanently lost.
Upon acquisition, the collection will be permanently preserved within the Society’s archives. Selected artifacts will be incorporated into future exhibits and educational programs, while fragile materials will be photographed, cataloged, and preserved to ensure their long-term protection and accessibility.
Your contribution will help preserve an important piece of Pennsylvania Reserve, Cumberland County, and Mechanicsburg history for future generations.
Every donation, regardless of size, brings us closer to our goal.
The Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps Historical Society is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions may be tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Currently a resident of Burke, Virginia – I’m originally from the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I have been a student of the Pennsylvania Reserves since 1997 and thoroughly enjoy telling their story. By trade I’m a former IT Professional but presently fill the seat of President of the Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps Historical Society.