S. Norris & W.T. Clement Rifle Muskets
.
Samuel Norris & William T. Clement, of Springfield Mass., contracted with the State of Massachusetts to manufacture
rifle muskets in 1863 & again in 1864. The muskets delivered on the first contract were of the model 1861 type. Those on the second contract
were of the model 1863 type I. Lockplates were usually marked with an eagle over U.S. in front of the hammer and
S.N. & W.T.C. over FOR over MASSACHUSETTS in three lines. The date was marked behind the hammer
1863 or 1864 . Those marked 1863 were usually of the model 1861 type & those marked 1864 were usually the model
1863 type I, which are more numerous. But dates and models can vary. In addition to the standard 1861 & 1863 models, there exist a number of
short models bearing Norris & Clement markings. Those noted have 31 inch barrels & are 46-3/4 inches long over all. If these were produced on contract
or were after war conversions is not known.
| Date of Contract |
No. Contracted |
Price of Contract |
No. Delivered |
| 1863 |
unknown |
unknown |
2,000 |
| 1864 |
unknown |
unknown |
11,000 |
| S. Norris & W. T. Clement Lockplate Markings |
|
| Short Model S. Norris & W. T. Clement Musket |
|