November 17, 2020 Early Arms & Militaria: Age of Exploration, Empire & Revolution
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2020
This exact horn is photographed and described on page 206 of "Accouterments I" by James R. Johnston. This horn measures about 13-1/4" across the bow and is beautifully carved with the owner’s name and date written in block letters within a large carved border of a scalloped design. The inscription reads "HENRY # THORN’S HORN #1779". It also has a wonderful large labyrinth carved near the base on the obverse side and near it, a sailing ship or sloop. Also carved is a fort showing the walls and a soldier raising a sword, another soldier raising a flag and another one taking aim with his flintlock musket, at a bird in a tree, with a squirrel running near it. The base of the horn is carved all around with a scallop design as well as the upper end nearing the neck. A nice carved recessed border gives way to a long slender neck with three raised rings before the pouring spout. Records show that Henry was born November 17, 1759 in Westerly, Washington County, Rhode Island. At the age of 17 years old, he enlisted in the 1st Battalion of Rhode Island Troops, commanded by Colonel Christopher Greene on February 17, 1777. There are many records showing where he was on duty and his pay for each of the months he served. Henry was among the thousands of Continental troops that wintered with General George Washington at Camp Valley Forge from December 1777 until June 1778. He served until January 28, 1780, and was discharged at Morristown, New Jersey. Included is a packet of information and genealogy regarding Henry Thorn, as well as color photos of his gravestone. CONDITION: Very good overall, with a pleasing honey patina and showing a few scattered marks from use. The convex wooden plug is very good, with some minor scuffing. A very attractive, well carved Revolutionary War powder horn. DMG