When the Civil war began, men and boys from these hills of
Western Virginia, grabbed their hunting rifle and headed off to the cause. Of course, many times they need not venture
far, as the conflict may be at their doorstep.
Every time I handle an antique longrifle
I wonder who the early owners were, where it has been, and what it may
have experienced. The ole adage,
"if this gun could only talk".
Well, the rifle we present today, has some provenance engraved to it, so
in a sense, it can speak, sharing a little of its history, while keeping the identity
of the soldier who carried it into battle a secret. This rifle has witnessed the bloodiest day on
American soil. Shortly after the rebel combatant fell or was captured, his rifle came into possession of the
Gosnell's. The Gosnell's had it engraved and gifted it to their uncle, Samuel
Ward, a veteran of the War of 1812. This
gift was a way for the nephews to honor their uncle’s loyalty and service to our country during America's Second War of Independence. Samuel Ward's nephews were his sister's sons.
Click for larger image
The side plate is engraved, “A Rebels Rifle captured on the battlefield of Antietam 17 Sept. 1862.”
The patchbox door bears a presentation inscription, “Presented to Samuel Ward / Soldier of the War of 1812 by his nephews / L.W. Gosnell, M.T. Gosnell, / & Wm. L. Gosnell.”
C. Robbins Flintlock converted to percussion
Thanks to the owner for sharing.
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