This is a Model 1842, .69 caliber, musket manufactured at the Harpers Ferry armory. These were made from 1844 to 1855 and just over 100,000 were made at Harpers Ferry. This example is a first year of production musket dated 1844. The barrel is a full 42” in length with a mottled age brown patina. There is pitting around breech and bolster area. An 1844 date on the barrel tang. Viewer and proof marks are lightly stamped on left breech. Harper's Ferry Inspector’s initials were present but have been intentionally effaced. The bore is dark and needs a good cleaning. The original ramrod is present with a threaded end. The hammer and lock plate are in matching smooth brown condition. The spread-winged eagle and US stamp are evident.  And "Harper's Ferry" and "1844” are stamped behind the hammer. Mechanical action is good. All metal parts: barrel bands, band springs, trigger guard, butt plate, and swivels are present and original to this musket. The walnut stock is in fine condition showing original color and finish. The initials "J C" are deeply carved on the right side of the stock, A "Q" is stamped ahead of the trigger guard. There are small dings typical of age and real field use.  2 Harper's Ferry inspector’s cartouches are on the flat opposite the lock.

This weapon was purchased over 40 years ago by the consignor, an advanced Confederate arms collector. He acquired it from Mr. Ed Anthony of Gastonia, NC, who bought it from a member the Childers family of Mooresville, North Carolina. It was carried in the Civil War by James Childers of Company D, 33^rd North Carolina Infantry. His initials are deeply carved near the wrist. He enlisted March 27th, 1862. His records note that he was wounded at Richmond, VA in June 1862 (Glendale on the 29th). This wound was serious enough that he was still absent over a year later. However, he was transferred to the Medical Purveyor’s office in Charlotte. Childers later returned to his unit and served until surrendering with the 33rd at Appomattox. The weapon is clearly marked with the ubiquitous C & R letter "Q". Whether he drew this arm prior to his wounding, after lingering awhile in Virginia recuperating, or later in North Carolina is not knowable but what is certain is that he did not have it when he surrendered with the Army of Northern Virginia on April 9th, 1865. This musket, a nice one standing on its own, has 3 extras going for it: It is pre-Mexican War (first production year), it is clearly C & R marked with "Q" (Richmond Artillery Workshop) and it is identified. Please take note of a receipt for .69 caliber muskets by Co. F of the 33rd NC dated August of 1863, just after Gettysburg!  [pe][ph:L]

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