Description
The 54 caliber, percussion, breech loading, single shot Merrill carbine was a popular Union carbine during the Civil War. Manufactured by H. Merrill, Baltimore, MD, approximately 14,495 of two types were delivered during the Civil War. This is a Type I. The breech lever is unlatched by pulling back the front tabs. It is then lifted up and pulled back to expose the chamber so the paper cartridge can be loaded. The 22 1/8″ round barrel on this carbine has a nice bright bore with strong rifling and normal firing erosion for its age. The lock plate is marked forward of the hammer J.H. MERRILL BALTO. over PAT. JULY 1858 over APL. 9 MAY 21-28-61 with the serial number, 7803, at the tail.
This weapon falls into carbines delivered to the 1st and 2nd Kentucky Cavalry in late 1862. It has some unusual modifications such as minor alteration of the breech and a buttstock that has the patchbox notch but no patchbox. The upper band is crudely formed as well. Many of these weapons are known to have been prized possessions of Confederate cavalrymen. This example surfaced in rural Pennsylvania as found in a barn near Hanover.
