One pair of identified binoculars and corresponding leather case with red velvet lining and brass nameplate. Binoculars measure 5 1/2 x 4 1/2inches overall with two (2) large frames measuring 2inches in diameter and two (2) small frames measuring 3/4 inches in diameter. Nameplate reads: "Col. Oscar W Sterl 104 OVI 1862."

Col. Oscar W. Sterl (1837-1895) was born in Massillon, Ohio, and spent most of his formative years in Germany, not moving back to the States until age 17. When the Civil War broke out, Sterl was 25 and enlisted as a second lieutenant for Company K, 7th Ohio on 17 June 1861. He would be promoted to first lieutenant for the 7th but would resign and enlist as a captain for the 104th Ohio on 16 September 1862. From here, Sterl worked his way through the ranks, eventually being promoted to colonel on 11 August 1864. He was discharged in Greensboro on 17 June 1865. 

Sterl died unexpectedly in 1895, likely from a heart attack. One newspaper's retelling claims "he fell to the floor and it was found that he had died instantly." He was 57 and left behind his wife, Elizabeth, and their five children. His name is one of hundreds on the Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. 

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Relics, Militaria, Accouterment, Equipment, Uniforms]

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