Gunmaker Richard Miller Patterson was born in July 1806 and died in 1852. In 1828 he married Rachel Hart Fleming. Rachel was born in 1801 and died in 1845. In the 1830 and 1840 Census, we find Richard living in Western Monongalia County, Virginia, or present-day Marion County, West Virginia. In the 1850 census, he is listed as a gunsmith in Marion County. Nine of his children are living with him, ages eight to twenty-two. One of the founding fathers of New Salem was John Patterson; possibly Richard is a descendant of this Patterson. The following signed rifle has been attributed to Richard. We have not found who taught Richard the art of gunsmithing. However, some of the unique carving and S-stamping on the stock are very similar to some Western Pennsylvania rifles. A clue to where or whom he learned the trade. The unique design of the patchbox and engraving on the patchbox and sideplate are of his imagination and design. The rifle has a 41.5-inch swamped rifled barrel of 36 cal., signed on top between the rear sight and breech, R. Patterson in script.
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Richard's son John and gunsmith Thomas P Lilly purchased gunsmith tools and supplies at the estate sale.
Thanks to George Fleming for the use of the headstone photo. Hope you all enjoyed viewing this rifle and info on Richard Miller Patterson, JDM & BMS
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