Description:

William Buel Franklin
Hartford, CT, August 15, 1881
W.B. Franklin Provides Colt Arms to Military Museum. "During the war Springfield model muskets were made here."
TLS
Typed letter signed, dated August 15, 1881, Hartford, Connecticut, written on Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company letterhead by William Buel Franklin. Franklin, a Civil War general and later the vice president of Colt, addresses a Major, discussing the selection of revolvers from the earliest to the most recent productions, ensuring they are tagged and shipped as requested for what seems to be an exhibit displaying military dress and arms. Franklin also inquires about the recipient's interest in Colt's double-barreled fowling pieces and a breech-loading gun made eleven years prior, referencing the advancements in firearm technology. Additionally, Franklin mentions an antique flintlock revolver from around 1820, highlighting the evolution of Colt firearms which would be of note to display in any potential military museum. In fine condition, some repair and toning, paper loss to edges which is barely noticeable, boldly signed. The letter measures 7.75" x 9.75."

In full:

"My dear Major,

I have received your letter of the 12[th] inst. I will select revolvers from those first made, down to the present production, and have them tagged and sent to you before the end of the month, as you suggest. I do not quite understand whether you want any of our double-barrel fowling pieces. And we made breech-loading guns for (?) eleven years ago, and during the war Springfield model muskets were made here.

We have here a flint lock revolver made I think about 1820. The revolution is by hand of course. Do you want it?

Although I will be glad to see you, I hardly think there is any necessity for your coming here on this business.

I think that military dress is always of interest to people, and an exhibit showing the changes will be particularly so, as well as that of the arms.

Truly yours,

W. B. Franklin"

William Buel Franklin, a distinguished Union general during the Civil War, became a key figure in the Colt Firearms empire in the postwar years, serving as the vice president and later the manager of Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company. After the assassination of company founder Samuel Colt, Franklin played a crucial role in stabilizing the business, overseeing the expansion of production and the modernization of Colt's firearms. Under his leadership, Colt continued to refine its revolvers and military weaponry, ensuring its dominance in both civilian and military markets. His engineering expertise and military background made him an invaluable asset to the company, allowing Colt to maintain its reputation as one of the premier firearms manufacturers of the 19th century.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 7.75" x 9.75."
  • Medium: TLS

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March 12, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
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