1873 Springfield bayonet query. . . . .

[JimF]

Just got a M'73 bayonet with the "U.S." marking . . . as it should be.

However---

It also has "MASS." stamped near the "U.S."!

I also have seen . . . and I MAY purchase . . . . a Cadet-length M'73 bayo. with the very same "MASS." marking in the same location.

Were these two bayonets once the property of the Massachusetts National Guard?

Thanks in advance, --Jim

[John Sukey]

State militia at that time period