Possibly Massachusetts
This attractive cherry stocked New England fowler with an English trade lock and proofed barrel [and bayonet lug] was made during the War of 1812 -1820 era. The gun was primarily for hunting; however, it was made with features allowing the owner to qualify for militia service. During this period, all Massachusetts citizens were required to have a musket and bayonet, when mustering twice a year.
The “Roman Nose” butt-stock design speaks to those made in the late 18th and early 19th century. The furniture is a mixture of iron and brass; the brass trigger guard features a long tang and engraved pineapple forend; three upper ramrod pipes, nose cap, and side plate are plain brass. The barrel is octagon round The small brass blade-type front sight is dovetailed
Military features include the brass style French side plate, and the stock is set back from the muzzle two-inches – allowing a bayonet to be affixed facilitated by a small lug dovetailed in the underside of the barrel. These simple design features qualified militia enrollment. The ramrod with a spent cartridge make-do finial is obviously very old but is unlikely original.
In closing, this is a great example of a small town militia company dual purpose gun.
Item Date: First Quarter of the 19th Century
Measurement: Overall length: 61.5"; Barrel Length: 45.5"
Material: Cherry stock (pin fastened)
Item Condition: Stock is excellent other than a small and trivial chip of wood missing at top-tail-end of lockplate; there is a beautiful period repair measuring 1.25-inch by 3/8-inch at left of breech tang. London proofed barrel is unmarked and displays tulip designs, and is mottled brown and pewter gray, All original except ramrod which is likely replaced.
Price: $3,750
SKU 1025-4
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.
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