May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
Johann Christian Schell, owner of the of the land and fort of the famed Battle of Schell's Bush, lived from 1731 until 1782. It is documented that in 1749 he emigrated from Germany and his ship, the "Isaac" came into Philadelphia. He has an extensive history in the Mohawk Valley beginning in the mid-1750's. His WikiTree profile goes into great detail about his extensive family history and defense of the area during the Revolutionary War. One excerpt reads: "in Tryon county...in January, 1776, the appearance of loyalist soldiers became threatening, General Herkimer ordered out all the militia. They were paraded on the ice on the Mohawk river. Amongst them in active service, were John Schell and Christian Schell, Jr. John Christian Schell, of an independent character and having ample means, built one of these forts upon his farm for himself and family, and he laid in a supply of arms and ammunition." Ultimately, Schell was killed defending family and homestead against Tories and Indians in July 1782. His farming efforts also provided food for American Patriots during the war. The horn itself measures about 13-1/2" across the bow. The spout section is elaborate and features a faceted ring. The main body is engraved around the top "JOHAN CHRIST SCHEL SEIN HORN", "sein" translates to "his" in German. It is also inscribed with the date 1760. Engraved designs include a family crest, a buck, folky florals and farm animals, a man smoking a pipe, wearing a crown and handing off a folded document. At the base, the horn still retains its original flange with two holes for strap attachment. Original wood plug with original brass tack decoration. CONDITION: Horn retains a honey patina and shows some carry wear. One hole from insect damage just above base. An untouched and very important powder horn with incredible history. Complete with a printout of details of the battle and family history of his eventful time in the Mohawk Valley.