2 Replies Latest reply on Jul 7, 2019 6:09 PM by Jones Jones

    Seeking who was issued a Colt Pocket Navy Pistol, Model 1849

    Newbie
    Jones Jones Jun 7, 2019 7:52 AM

      Hello,

       

      I am seeking detailed records for Colt Pocket Navy 1849 Model Percussion Pistol, serial number 192408, manufactured date is 1861. The pistol is carved WHL and the trigger guard is stamped with "L" but the L is somewhat accessorized, in that it has a lip, of sorts. Further, the initials carved into the handle also show a similar "lip" at the end of the "L."

       

      According to family lore, this pistol was prized from a Confederate cavalry officer(?) prior to 3-may-1863. The holster appears to be Confederate in nature, and has common features, including ACORN latch of type used by confederacy. Does anyone know how to obtain ISSUE records, etc.? Advise, please. thanks in advance.

        • Re: Seeking who was issued a Colt Pocket Navy Pistol, Model 1849
          Scout
          Becca Simons Expert Jun 9, 2019 7:26 PM (in response to Jones Jones)

          Dear Mr. Jones,

           

          Thank you for posting your request on History Hub!

           

          The military records in the custody of the National Archives do not include the record of assignment and operational activity of individual pieces of equipment including pistols. Under normal Department of the Navy records management procedures, such documentation would be destroyed after initial administrative use.

           

          We hope this information is helpful.






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          • Re: Seeking who was issued a Colt Pocket Navy Pistol, Model 1849
            Newbie
            Jones Jones Jul 7, 2019 6:09 PM (in response to Jones Jones)

            Thank you for this information. Do you know why "L" might have been stamped into the brass of the trigger guard? Some research suggests that the "L" marking might have been made by the quartermaster who accepted the pistol into the "stock" of the U.S. government, prior to the start of the civil war. So far as I can tell, the pistol was manufactured in 1861 and delivered to the Army. Thanks in advance. Sorry for delay.