President Lincoln testing small arms in Washington DC

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  • Last Post 12 March 2023
Waleone posted this 04 March 2023

Interesting article on Abraham Lincoln personally test firing a Spencer rifle by the Washington Monument. Imagine having a President today this interested in the latest firearms technology, and not just to keep it from the law abiding!

https://drloihjournal.blogspot.com/2021/01/lincoln-test-fired-muskets-and-repeating-rifles-on-white-house-lawn.html

Wayne

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Aaron posted this 04 March 2023

Great article! Even the President had a "flyer" on that target. I don't feel so bad now.

Years ago whilst doing some research at the National Archives, I discovered the harvest reports off the White House grounds. The hemp crops were producing quite well and the money was placed into the White House operating budget. Times sure have changed!

With rifle in hand, I confidently go forth into the darkness.

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Clod Hopper posted this 04 March 2023

I have seen that target at the Illinois military Museum in Springfield, IL several times.  The article says it was donated to the Lincoln Museum.  They are not the same museum.  Probably the Lincoln Museum donated it to the Military Museum.  Be sure to visit the Military Museum as well as the Lincoln sites when you come.  The Military Museum also have Santa Anna's prosthetic leg from the battle of San Jacinta, although it may not be out for display due to preservation issues with light.  

Dale M. Lock

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Aaron posted this 12 March 2023

Does anyone else find it interesting that the bullet did not penetrate even one 1" pine board? Pine boards were the "test" of the era for cartridge penetration, and the 1861 Springfield would penetrate 11 1" boards with the service load. Even the 1858 New Model Army revolver with conicals would penetrate a 1" pine board.

Knowing that the ordinance department would test penetration and see this lack of penetration, this rifle was offered up and even accepted by the US Army for issue. Looks like the wheels of "scratch my back" were churning even then in government. Perhaps it was Russian influence? surprised

 

With rifle in hand, I confidently go forth into the darkness.

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