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D2013-CMD. Pistol
Pattern 1759 Elliot Light Dragoon pistol
D2013-CMD. Pistol

Pattern 1759 Elliot Light Dragoon pistol

Dateca. 1760-1764
Maker Board of Ordnance
OriginEngland, Birmingham and London
MediumWalnut, iron, steel and brass
DimensionsOL: 15" Barrel: 8 15/16" x .68 caliber
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1949-266
DescriptionPattern 1759 Elliot's Light Dragoon pistol with walnut stock, round barrel, rounded brass mounts and straight-bottomed regulation lock for the pattern. Regulation cast brass mounts and reproduction brass tipped wood ramrod.
Label TextThe Pattern 1759 Elliot Light Dragoon pistol was developed for use by the newly raised regiments of British Light Dragoons during the Seven Years War. During the Revolutionary War, it was one of the most common pistols carried by mounted troops fighting on both sides. Other examples are known with markings for both the 17th Light Dragoons and the 16th or "Queen's" Light Dragoons, which served here during the war.

One of many in Colonial Williamsburg's collection, this example was formerly part of an arms display at Stirling Castle, Scotland. It was dismantled at the beginning of WWII so the castle could accommodate soldiers preparing to head off to war, and the pistols were sold to W. Keith Neal.
MarkingsLock engraved with "Crown GR" ahead of cock and "VERNON / 1760" in two lines behind, and a "Crowned Broad Arrow" is struck under the pan. Barrel is struck with the usual Ordnance View & Proof marks plus the maker's mark of John Whately. Stock is marked with the Ordnance storekeepers mark above the tail of the lockplate.
ProvenanceFormerly part of an arms display at Stirling Castle, Scotland dismantled at the beginning of WWII. Sold to W. Keith Neal c.1940, and thence to Colonial Williamsburg.
Exhibition(s)