J. Holland Flintlock Halfstock Boys Rifle

[Tradegun]

Does anyone have any information on J. Holland flintlock maker. This is a boys size rifle. Appears to be American made. Thanks

[Tanselman]

The patchbox shape with solid surround and lid, single trigger, and short forestock grip area all look like New York details. I looked in Swinney's "New York State Firearms Trade" and did not find the name. There was a James Holland working in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in the 1860s, i.e., percussion era, but it may indicate the gun has Canadian roots, if we cannot find it in or near New York.

The 2-piece patchbox construction is a lot like J.M. Caswell's of New York.

Shelby Gallien

[Tradegun]

Thanks Tanselman for the info. I never thought of Canadian and I live in Canada. Yes James H. Holland of Hamilton, Ont is just a little late for flintlocks - but still possible! I have an interesting Caswell percussion gun which I will try and gets some pictures of it and post it.
Thanks again

[Hudnut]

Have yu inspected the inside of the lock?  The frizzen screw looks very crisp, and that moulding under the pan is a bit different.  I'm wondering if it might be a percussion lock converted to flint.

[Seth Isaacson]

Looks like a "retroverted" percussion lock to me. The pan, frizzen, and frizzen spring all look like modern components.

[Bob Gerard]

That’s a really handsome and well kept rifle.
I don’t think the name on the lock necessary means he is also the gun maker.

[Bob Roller]

That is a good looking rifle and I was looking at the lock and wonder if the tumbler is lower than usual.The name on the lock plate may be only the lock maker but it may not be and could be the gun maker.
Bob Roller