May 27, 2020 Founders & Patriots
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/27/2020
For another powder horn inscribed Kookstown and dated 14 days later, see page 199 of "Accouterments III" by James R. Johnston. This horn and the example in the book are clearly done by the same hand and use the same lettering and vine and flower decoration. The curved and tapered body measures about 12-1/2" overall. The spout section is faceted, followed by two relief rings. The incription, towards the butt reads: "JOHN OWEN / HIS HORN MADE / AT KOOKSTOWN / JANUARY 20 / 1777". Surrounding the inscription, there are well-engraved floral vines. The convex wooden plug has a brass knob in the center for strap attachment. "Kookstown" was actually Cookstown, New Jersey in Mercer County, close to Princeton, which is in the same County. It is fairly close to Trenton and was a well-stocked trading town. The Battles of Trenton (December 26, 1776) and Princeton (January 3, 1777) were only two weeks prior to this horn being engraved. This horn was turned up in White Horse in Mercer County, New Jersey. CONDITION: Excellent, with a pleasing honey patina. A very attractive Revolutionary War powder horn.