Charleville Pattern Kerlin Musket

[AFMarksman]

I'm a decedent of John Kerlin who was a musket builder/blacksmith in the 1770's - Early 1800's.  He built his first contract musket for the Pennsylvania Committee of Safety in 1776.  He and his son Samuel continued to build Pennsylvania Contract muskets and musket barrels until the armories were established at the turn of the 19th century.

I'm searching for one of his early muskets.  I'm looking for recommendations where I may find one?  Thanks for your assistance!

David Johnson
Fort Worth, Texas
usafmarksman@gmail.com

US Air Force (Retired)
1989 - 2010
Distinguished Rifleman - Presidents 100 - NRA Life Member - Texas State Rifle Association Life Member

[DaveM]

David - your best approach may be to get familiar with some of the more popular collector firearm auctions and search those.  and a google search for specifics of what you are looking for can locate one in an auction also.  There are not many around, so it may take some patience.  If my memory serves, they may be marked “IK”. Not sure I ever saw one of them from before the 1808 contracts though you are correct they manufactured them back to the rev war.  I believe they worked in montgomery county pa or eastern berks county near douglassville.  Watch out for muskets that have been restocked or may have a replacement lock, if you are looking for a mostly original piece. Best of luck!

[AFMarksman]

I hope you are all well and safe! 

I'm still looking for a Kerlin musket if anyone has a line on one.  Thanks for your time and consideration!

[WESTbury]

There is an 1808 Contract by Kerlin, Young & Co. in Morphy's Nov 17 auction, Lot#1042. These "IY" 1808 Contracts were furnished against John Miles contract. See page 181 of Moller's American Military Shoulder Arms, Vol 2 for an explanation.

I believe that Samuel & John Kerlin supplied musket components for the 1798 Contract Muskets, not complete muskets.

[vanu]

AFM,

Doesn't get much better than this option...great recommendation by WESTbury (he's a very knowledgeable musket guy on the forum); best of luck getting a family related piece.

Bruce

[WESTbury]

Air Force,

I forgot to add that there is at least one State of Pennsylvania 1797 Contract Musket that has a lock marked "IK" on the inside, page 256 Moller's Vol 2.

[WESTbury]

AFM,
great recommendation by WESTbury (he's a very knowledgeable musket guy on the forumBruce

That's way more than a little overstated but I appreciate it. I have many books on this subject which are an invaluable resource on any subject. Also, it does help that I'm, as my wife puts it, "obsessed".

Great article on the ASAC website on the PA 1797 Contracts includes info on the Kerlins. Bulletin #91 Spring 2005.