July 24-25, 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/24/2015
These conversions were performed in Trenton, New Jersey circa 1869. Immediately after the Civil War, the Irish-American secret society, the Fenian Brotherhood, plotted to invade Canada. They purchased 4,200 muzzle loading Model 1861 rifled muskets from Alfred Jenks, the contractor of the M1861 Bridesburg Musket. They were distributed to the Fenian group, 600 of whom crossed the Canadian border in June 1866, defeating a company of Canadian Volunteers. They were arrested by U.S. authorities and their weapons confiscated, but were released and weapons returned. In 1869 they reorganized so they secretly rented premises in Trenton, New Jersey and converted these weapons using the Needham patent. Using these converted weapons, they again invaded Canada in 1870 via Vermont. 200 were captured and all arms were confiscated. They were later sold to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham of New York City. They were sold in various catalogs from 1884 to the 1920's. Caliber is listed as .58 centerfire. That said, this rifle remains in excellent condition. Barrel measures 35-3/4" and is finished in the white. The sideplate is dated 1862 with the eagle and Bridesburg clearly visible. Hammer, sideplate, and frame are a pleasing mix of gun metal and soft brown patina. The walnut stocks are excellent, except there is a 4" crack on left side of forearm. Has three barrel bands, all U.S. stamped. Rear barrel band is in the white, the other two are blued. Original ramrod. Left side of stock is stamped "I.N.". Buttplate stamped "U.S.". Has a standard military Springfield rear sight. Strong clean bore. The barrel is clean, in the white, near mint, with very minor freckling. A very high condition and unusual rifle with a storied history.