The history on this carbine is a little interesting. It is right in the middle of a batch that was sent to the famous(or infamous?) 7th US Cav of Custer fame. It was made in the 3rd quarter of 1879 and still has the original cleaning rods in the butt. At some time it was sent to Massachusetts and was in their State Guard. In 1914 it somehow made its way to Santa Barbara CA and was issued to Dr. Benjamin Knowles who was a member of the Santa Barbara Constabulary. It was issued with the pictured Mills Belt and a full load of ammunition. I purchased it from his grandson Joseph Knowles who I sailed against in the IOR series.
Just a clarification here, the actual destination of this carbine is unknown, it may have gone to the 7th Cav but we don't know because this carbine's serial number is not listed. Also this carbine post dates the Battle of the Little Big Horn.
Gary
Just a clarification here, the actual destination of this carbine is unknown, it may have gone to the 7th Cav but we don't know because this carbine's serial number is not listed. Also this carbine post dates the Battle of the Little Big Horn.
Gary
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