Bennett was present until just after the battle of Chickamauga when he entered the hospital sick on September 24, 1863. While he was with the regiment it saw action at 2 nd Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, Stones River, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Buzzards Roost and Resaca. He enlisted as a Private in Company H, 11 th Ohio Infantry at Camp Dennison on Jfor three years. Bennett was born in Shelby County, Ohio in 1840. On page 96 of that book can be seen the listing showing that this rifle was issued to Bennett. The published book by Coates and McAulay mentioned above comes with the rifle. The owner of this weapon was Private William H. The fact that the owner was in a regiment composed entirely of proud veterans who were allowed to keep their weapons at the end of their service explains the rifles excellent condition.
Overall this weapon does show signs of some use but it also shows that it was cared for. Both sling swivels are present as are all three barrel bands. The wrist just behind the breech has two very good cartouche marks. The left side of the forearm, just forward of the first barrel band, has a 1.50 x 0.75 inch nick or gouge that has been filled with wood putty. The surface of the stock shows light wear with the usual dings, dents and scratches associated with age. This area also has a dark stain in the wood caused by some unknown substance. Walnut stock has an iron patchbox in the right side of the butt that matches the rest of the iron surfaces of the rifle. Top of breech block and nipple area are very clean with only the slightest surface pitting. Action works properly and the original nipple is present. All patent marks are near crisp and the lock marking is strong. Behind the sight is a good single line stamping of “NEW MODEL 1863.” Bore has good rifling with light dust and minor dirt from storage.īreech, lock and triggerguard show hints of case colors but are mostly dark. Forward of this is a clear strong marking that reads “SHARPS RIFLE MANUFG. Rear sight has the long flip-up leaf with sliding appture. The muzzle area has just the slightest pinprick pitting otherwise the barrels appearance is very pleasing. The barrel retains most of its original finish throughout its length with just some scattered areas where it has thinned a bit. Bennett formerly of the 11 th Ohio Infantry and who, at the time of the issue of this weapon, was with the 4 th Regiment US Veteran Volunteers. McAulay, was issued to Private William H.
This Sharps rifle bears serial number C35210 which, according to records published in “CIVIL WAR SHARPS CARBINES & RIFLES” by Earl J.
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