Feature & Exhibit Detail

The maker of this long rifle is regarded as one of the finest builders of such weapons and the most important gunmaker of his region. His weapons are highly effective as well as beautiful, elegantly carved art—a clear demonstration that “less is more.”

An engraved inscription on the butt plate states that the rifle was presented to President George Washington at Mount Vernon in 1791, although this is apparently undocumented. Various theories have been formed to explain this possible connection. The inscription’s lettering is of a style used much later in the nineteenth century, but could have been applied to commemorate a much earlier event since forgotten. Another theory holds that the rifle was a gift from veteran soldiers to their wartime commander. It has also been speculated that it was received by Washington during a presidential journey through Pennsylvania or sent to him by admirers there. Regardless, this remains a superb example of an early American rifle with an important tradition that remains to be verified.