Rare Excavated Civil War Henry Rifle

Rare Excavated Civil War Henry Rifle - Inventory Number: RIF 204

Rare Excavated Civil War Henry Rifle recovered from the camp of the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry – – The Henry rifle was designed by B. Tyler Henry and was developed from the Volcanic lever action carbine. The Henry was a fundamental advancement in firepower during the Civil War. It allowed 15 consecutive shots to be fired before requiring a reload. This advanced armament was devastating to opposing Infantry troops armed with single shot percussion muskets. The Federal Government purchased 1,731 Henry rifles between 1862 and 1865.

 Nearly all rifles between the serial numbers 3000 and 4200 were issued to the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry regiments. Over 200 of the DC Cavalry Henry rifles were captured in September of 1864, during the infamous “Beefsteak Raid”, by forces under the command of Confederate Major General Wade Hampton. These rifles saw subsequent reissue to the 7th, 11th and 35th Virginia Cavalry.

Accompanied by Letter of Authenticity:  

“7-20 Dug by Don Lauter

Henry was dug by Don in a D.C. Caverly Camp located off of Jersulun Plank Rd. Camp was located in Prince George County appox. 8 miles south o Fort Davis. Lots of Henry’s found also.

I swear to this statement

W. E, Spain

William Spain” 

* To purchase this item directly by credit card, please click this link.

Inventory Number: RIF 204