38. U.S. Model 1861 Percussion Rifle-Musket by Parkers' Snow & Company
.58 cal percussion, 40" barrel with a fair bore which shows oxidation its full length. Metal surfaces are an overall soft brown, lightly oxidized patina with some minor impact marks and light pitting at the bolster. The top barrel flat is 1863 dated while the left diagonal flat shows appropriate eaglehead and firing proofs, the lockplate is appropriately marked and is also dated 1863. The walnut stock rates about very good showing two light left stock flat cartouches, some light later-added varnish and overall minor dings and handling marks from the years; there are two initials lightly incise-carved at the left side of the butt "JA". The lock is crisp and mechanically functional. The rifle comes with a lined piece of paper signed by a Leslie Backstrom which reads "Civil War musket carried by Isaac Marshall…." Basically this lady's great great grandfather. There is also an e-mail printed on an auctioneer's letterhead questioning the lady about where this gentleman was a newspaper editor (he was the editor of the Manchester Cricket, of Manchester Mass, about 35 miles north of Boston). Also included is a computer-printed family portrait of Isaac Newton Marshall, his wife and what are likely four daughters and perhaps his parents or in-laws. Isaac Newton Marshall enlisted as a corporal in the 6th Mass. Infantry in 1861. He was promoted to second lieutenant and commissioned into Company C. of the Mass. 6th Infantry in August of 1862; (therefore as a commissioned second lieutenant he would've been an officer and not been carrying an 1863-dated contract musket) but it is likely he may have at one point carried a very similar musket. The musket comes with a correct period leather sling with keepers and brass hook, it is unmarked. Overall a near very good "example" of the Parkers' Snow & Company-produced rifle-musket. (34495-60) {ANTIQUE} (800/1200) SOLD FOR $1495.00 |
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