October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
This well carved mid-18th century Hudson Valley fowler was shortened to carbine length while in use as a flintlock, probably for use in the Revolutionary War. The piece shows many repairs and signs of heavy use over the years, denoting possible Indian or Frontiersman use. The lock has a period replaced handmade cock and frizzed spring. An accompanying letter states that this was sold at a Virginia charity auction in 2003 by its original owner of over 50 years, who was Mr. Harwood Cochrane of Richmond, Virginia. The lock features an early three stage English barrel stamped with early British private view and proof marks on the left side of the breech, as well as a Fleur-de-Lis over the initials "IB". The top is stamped "LONDON PROOF". The early rounded lockplate is of trade style with engraved scrolls and an unbridled pan. The brass furniture includes a full sideplate with simple single line border, early multi-rings trade ferrules, and a plain and unengraved buttplate. The trigger guard bow is engraved with floral scrolls, and the front tang was broken off, and the area where it once was is now covered by period leather retained by iron nails. There is a period wrist break covered with a thin sheet of iron and retains by early iron nails. Near the muzzle there is an area wrapped with copper wire to secure the muzzle to the forend. Complete with a replaced, but old, wooden ramrod. The stock is of mid-18th century Hudson Valley form, is of partially figured maple, and carved with relief foliate designs around the barrel tang, in front of and behind the trigger guard, and behind the ramrod entry ferrule. CONDITION: Completely as found, showing consistent heavy wear and extensive use with much of the relief carving worn smooth from saddle wear and carrying wear. There are scattered cracks, areas of splintering, and marks from use. This is a wonderful, untouched, early piece with much early history.
Caliber/Bore
.62 Smoothbore
Model
Hudson Valley Fowler