March 1-2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2018
Abraham Schweitzer was the brother-in-law of Melchior Fordney and was a gunsmith and lock maker, and was listed as a lock maker between 1820 and 1822 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This rifle displays several features that are similar to Fordney rifles, including the patchbox final and form. The rifle has an octagonal barrel with partially worn signature "A. Schweitzer" in script on the top flat. Flat flintlock mechanism stamped with a small sword or cross beneath the pan, but otherwise unmarked. Double set triggers. Brass furniture includes a four-piece patchbox with scrolls engraved on the lid and a classic Fordney-style Lancaster finial. The sideplate is the style of a Chambersburg school plate and is engraved with checkering and scrolls. Full-length figured maple stock of Lancaster form, inlaid with a silver wrist escutcheon inscribed with later "JS" and an engraved silver half-moon above the cheekpiece. Half moon and oval silver barrel key escutcheons line both sides of the forend. Brass-tipped wooden ramrod is probably a replacement. Barrel retains a spotted brown patina with some edge wear and scattered marks, signature shows heavy wear. Lock is a well-executed professional reconversion. Brass retains a mellow patina with some wear to engraving and some light scattered marks. Stock has been refinished and has a nice patina, some minor professional restoration around lock and about 5 inches replaced at muzzle. This rifle has a great homogeneous and original overall appearance and is a great example of a Lancaster longrifle.
Caliber/Bore
.55 Smoothbore