May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
Lot #3301:
(A) NEEDHAM 1861/63 CONVERTED BRIDESBURG CONTRACT RIFLED MUSKET DATED 1865.
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/15/2025
This conversion was patented by J & G Needham, first in England and then in the US in May of 1870. The rifle was originally a Bridesburg contact US rifle made by Alfred Jenks. The conversions were performed in Trenton, New Jersey. They are now infamous as they are known as the Fenian Brotherhood rifles. Approximately 5020 of these Bridesburg rifles were converted, and 200 Fenians armed with this weapon attempted a second failed raid into Canada. This does not appear to be one of such rifles as it is purported that the rifles used by them had a V cut splice under the middle band which this example does not have. All metal is finished in the white with three bands, folding leaf rear sight, sling swivels, nearly full length walnut stock. The lock still bears the eagle and "US BRIDESBURG" legend and is dated 1865. This writer can see no legends on the conversion block. CONDITION: Fine. Metal is still finished bright with some oxidation and light freckling. Legends are strong. Stock is excellent showing usual scattered dings. Bore is still quite sharp with some abrasion. Also comes with a US bayonet.