Made by A B Carpenter, who worked in Dolson, Clark County, Illinois during the 1870's and 1880's, until at least 1886. He also once had a shop on Union Street, in Paris, Edgar County, Illinois, date unknown. This may have been before moving to Dolson (which is now called Clarksville).
The 1880 census lists him as a farmer, born in Ohio.
Here are the vital statistics on this rifle.
Length overall: 62 7/8"
Barrel length: 47 1/2" (but has been set back between 5" and 5 1/2")
Width across flats at breech: 1 1/8" at muzzle 1 1/16"
Caliber: approximately .44, with seven groove rifling
Stock: maple
Mountings & inlays: german silver
Weight: 14 lbs. 12 oz.
The lock plate is brass with some well-worn silver plating remaining. The lock plate is cut out for a bolster, which was lost when the barrel was set back.
