Images(8)

Dragoon Carbine

Dateca. 1740-50

Artist/Maker Thomas Hatcher

OriginEngland, London

MediumWalnut, iron, steel and brass

DimensionsOA: 52 3/8" Barrel: 37 1/4" x .70 caliber

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1950-14

DescriptionClassic mid-century British horse carbine, architecturally similar to the Pattern 1756 Carbine for Horse, but without the usual Ordnance markings. Plain, round-faced double bridled lock, round barrel, steel sling bar and ring, rounded Land Pattern brass furniture, wooden rammer and a stock which extends to the muzzle.
Label TextSometime before the middle of the 18th century, the Colony of Virginia equipped a unit of horse soldiers, also known as dragoons. These highly mobile troops were especially useful in defending such a large colony with such diverse terrain. While the usual foot soldier carried a musket and bayonet, dragoons were equipped with a pair of pistols and a sling-mounted horse carbine. Since horse carbines didn't require bayonets, a heavy cutting & thrusting sword was the edged weapon of choice. Although the requisitions for these specialized arms have not survived, a July 1750 “Account of Stores of War at Williamsburg,” records "100 Carabines" at Governor’s House, which were likely similar to this example.
MarkingsBarrel struck with Board of Ordnance View and Proof marks (Crowned GR/Broad Arrow and Crowned Crossed Scepters) in addition to the "IF" mark of the barrel maker, Joseph or James Farmer.
ProvenanceOne of five identical HATCHER carbines acquired together from the armoury at Wentworth Woodhouse, Yorkshire (sold at auction in July, 1949). Possibly once part of the armament of the mounted contingent of the "Yorkshire Blues," commanded by the 2nd Marquess of Rockingham in the 1745 Jacobite Uprising.

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