Description
Yep, you read it correctly…a RIFLE, not the standard rifle musket. Late in 1862 the Armory at Richmond got requests from officers in the field to produce shorter flanker/skirmisher weapons, so they started making a 33″ barrel rifle, similar to the models made at Harpers Ferry but with standard thickness barrels. Only a few hundred were ever produced and they are far, far beyond rare.
This little beauty is simply fantastic. Not only does it retain the famous HIGH HUMP lockplate style, but it is about as untouched as ever encountered. The natural brown age patina is stunning, as is the gently aged walnut stock. The action of the lock is crisp, the bore is clear and all markings are strong and legible. Simply put, you will not likely ever see another anywhere near as nice as this one. Only a few are known to have survived at all.
This is an incredibly rare Confederate armory produced pure military weapon. It shares the trait of the forward pinched site with its smaller cousin, the Richmond Cavalry carbine.
I have only seen half a dozen of these in over FORTY YEARS–and none this nice. Pure museum and investment grade weapon overall. Like that isn’t enough, opposite the lock are three neatly carved initials “E.J.S.” — this weapon, once in the Davies Collection, was attributed to a Sergeant who served in the 30th and 55th Virginia Infantry, Edmond J. Spindle. This is a perfect match as these weapons were commonly issued to flankers, skirmishers and non commissioned infantry officers! This weapon is the TOTAL PACKAGE all the way! It is a far more rare weapon than a Fayetteville Rifle.
Some of the battles the 55th Virginia engaged in included the Seven Days Battles, Second Battle of Manassas, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg as well as the defense of Richmond and Petersburg.
Residence Spotsylvania County VA; a 40 year-old Farmer. Enlisted on 3/13/1862 as a Sergeant. On 3/13/1862 he mustered into "M" Co. VA 55th Infantry He was Surrendered on 4/9/1865 at Appomattox Court House, VA He was listed as: * Hospitalized 6/1/1862 (place not stated) (Sick) * On rolls 8/31/1862 (place not stated) * Hospitalized 9/28/1862 (place not stated) * Returned 3/15/1863 (place not stated) (Estimated day) * Hospitalized 6/16/1863 (place not stated) * Returned 7/15/1863 (place not stated) (Estimated day) * Wounded 5/10/1864 Spotsylvania Court House, VA * Returned 1/15/1865 (place not stated) (Estimated day) He also had service in: "D" Co. VA 30th Infantry (Prior service as Sergt) Other Information: died 8/22/1893 in Caroline Co, VA |
