Officer's Fusil
Dateca. 1755-1760
Artist/Maker
E. North
MediumIron/steel, brass, and walnut
DimensionsOverall length: 49 5/8"; Barrel: 34 1/2" x .67 caliber
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1954-87,A
DescriptionOfficer's fusil with military-themed rococo brass mounts, sling swivels, and a walnut stock with some carving around barrel tang, lock mortice, and sideplate flat. Round barrel with a rear sight groove along its tang. Buttplate, triggerguard, and lock plate have an engraved border, and the former is also engraved with a crossed bow and quiver with a star above. The barrel and stock have been cut back (est. 8" to 10"), perhaps at the same time it was fitted for a steel rammer.Label TextBy the middle years of the 18th century, British officers began carrying fusils instead of the usual spontoon. Basically, these light firearms were identical to civilian fowling guns, but were configured to mount a sling and a socket bayonet. Before the Revolutionary War, regimental colonels began equipping their officers with identical fusils, and this plain London-made example is one of such a set.This rare example dates from the French & Indian War period, and was originally longer and equipped with a wooden rammer. Colonial Williamsburg owns three fusils from this regimental set, all of which have been altered in the same manner.Inscription(s)Lock engraved "E.NORTH," and the barrel is engraved "LONDON" with some foliage at the breech.Mark(s)Breech struck with Private Tower of London proofmarks of Crowned crossed sceptres, struck twice.
