James Hedrick 1844-1919, Wythe County, Virginia

[MGillman]

I recently acquired this rifle and it is signed by James Hedrick who was born and raised in Wythe County. James married Missouri Jane Waddell from the Kimberling area of Wythe and is the granddaughter to John Huddle, maker of the famous painted Wythe blanket chests. The horn pictured was bought from an estate in Kimberling this year. I put a circa date of 1870 on the rifle and horn. The sway belly stock reminds me of some later Washington County, VA rifles.

[MGillman]

[Craig Wilcox]

Interesting piece of history, and appreciate you showing us.

Is that crack at the wrist all the way through?  Will you be able to pin it?  Any desire to go shooting with that?  I do like that "swooping" butt stock - ought to be smooth to fire.

[MGillman]

The wrist break is all the way through. It has had an old repair on the wrist. I probably won't shoot it. It's the only known signed Hedrick rifle as of right now.

[Tim Crosby]

 Gary,
  How is that tip attached to the horn or is a tip or the plug. Looks newer, like a replacement.
Thanks for the Pix.

  Tim
 

[Jacob_S_P]

Very nice pairing.

[MGillman]

Gary,
  How is that tip attached to the horn or is a tip or the plug. Looks newer, like a replacement.
Thanks for the Pix.

  Tim
 

Sorry for the late response. I believe the wooden tip is a later addition and looks to be glued in.