Sporting Life archives [Archive] - Parker Gun Collectors Association Forums

Drew Hause

07-12-2009, 09:43 PM

Feb. 19, 1898
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1898/VOL_30_NO_22/SL3022020.pdf
A. W. Du Bray, traveling representative of Parker Gun has been making his usual trip through the South. Writing from Lake Charles. La., he says: "I have just had two days of shooting here in company with my good friend. Mr. J. C. Elstner. of this place. On the first day we bagged 47 quail and snipe and on the second day 107, of which 18 were quail, the rest snipe. So many people are constantly in quest of in formation regarding good shooting territory that I think you would be doing your readers a favor by publishing this. Quail are very abundant here, and one can bag from 25 to 50 a day over a good dog. Snipe are nearly always found, but of course not with is much certainty. Another thing. This is one of the few places where -a man can get a good, comfortable room and wholesome, well-cooked food, and anyone coming here should by all means put up at the Hotel Howard, where he wall find the genial, good-natured proprietor in Mr. Pierre Theaux, a model host in every particular. I can cheerfully recommend this hotel, knowing I will receive the thanks of any one coming here. On the last day’s shooting I used very heavy full-choke Parker, 16 gauge, loaded with three drams Du Pont smokeless and one ounce No. 8 ½ chilled shot in 2 7/8 inch U. M. C. Smokeless shell. It was certainly a great load for wild birds. Ducks, geese, cranes and prairie chickens are found near here."

Drew Hause

07-13-2009, 06:13 PM

Fulford won the 1898 GAH (using a Remington hammerless)
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1898/VOL_31_NO_02/SL3102023.pdf

Messrs. Parker Bros., the makers of the celebrated Parker gun, at the close of the Grand American Handicap presented the winner, Mr. E. D. Fulford. with a very handsome gold and enamel coat button, facsimile of which appears herewith. It was designed and made by Tiffany & Co., of New York. The ground is,of dark blue enamel, with lettering and bird in chased gold. The idea is novel and appropriate, and the button will no doubt be very highly valued by the recipient.

Drew Hause

07-14-2009, 09:21 PM

Fulford made traps too
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1902/VOL_38_NO_17/SL3817013.pdf

and Mr. E. C. Griffith won the Grand American Handicap, at Live Birds, in April, 1901, and on July 18, 1901 won the Grand American Handicap, at Targets, breaking 95 out of 100, at 19 yards rise with a Parker.
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1902/VOL_38_NO_17/SL3817014.pdf

In 1902 Fred Gilbert left Hunter Arms for Parker
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1902/VOL_38_NO_18/SL3818013.pdf
Spirit Lake, lowa, Jan. 8, 1902
A fine race was witnessed here to-day between Fred Gilbert and John Burmeister, both of this place. It was a friendly match, in which Gilbert tried a new 32-inch Parker gun. He made a fine score, breaking 99 out of 100, losing his tenth target. After the finish of the match he shot at ten more targets and broke them, making a record of 100 straight.
The targets were thrown 55 yards. Gilbert’s load was 3 1/4 drams DuPont smokeless, 1 1/4 oz. No. 7 1/2 Tatham’s chilled shot, in Winchester Leader shells.

Drew Hause

07-14-2009, 10:03 PM

http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1902/VOL_38_NO_22/SL3822017.pdf
DEATH OF CHARLES PARKER.
Founder of the Great Gun Making Industry Passes Away.
The death of Charles Parker, founder of the firm of Parker Bros., manufacturers of the celebrated Parker gun, occurred at his residence in Meriden, Conn., Jan. 31st. Mr. Parker was president of the above concern at the time of his death, and was the founder of many important industries in Meriden. He was 98 years of age and had been, in fairly good health until recently, when he contracted a severe cold and suffered from an attack of la grippe. He retained his full mental faculties until a few hours before his death.
He was always of a cheerful disposition and his entire life had been spent in active business industries. He was a member ot the Methodist Church and contributed largely towards the erection of the present Methodist Church in that city. Mr. Parker always refused to accept public office, though often urged to do so, until Meriden was incorporated a city, when he was elected Mayor, which office he held two years.
Mr. Parker was married Oct. 6, 1831, to Miss Abi Lewis Eddy, of Berlin, and had ten children. Mr. Parker's surviving children are Dexter W. Parker and Mrs. W. H. Lyon. The grandchildren are Miss Elsie Lyon, Mrs. J. F. Alien, Alderman Wilbur F. and L. C. Parker, and Charles P. Breese.
Mr. Parker's success in life was owing to strict economy and close application to business; he often working fifteen hours a day. attending to his large correspondence evenings. He was distinguished for good sense, great industry, method in business, and punctuality in all his engagements. He was the ideal business man in his younger days and for many years after others of less energetic, character would have given up all business affairs, he kept: in thorough touch with the many Hues (sic) in which the immense Parker company was engaged. In his death Meriden loses its most distinguished citizen.

Drew Hause

07-14-2009, 10:18 PM

http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1902/VOL_38_NO_24/SL3824014.pdf
Captain Money, of the "E. C." and "Schultze" Powder Company, New York, is mourning the loss of his Parker pigeon gun, which was stolen -February 15, at Paterson, N. J. The gun was taken from the case and shells substituted, giving it the required weight, so he did not discover his loss until some hours later. This is the second Parker gun Captain Money has lost in this manner.

Drew Hause

07-15-2009, 05:53 PM

July 26, 1902
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1902/VOL_39_NO_19/SL3919022.pdf
The Parker gun has taken its share of honors this season, many of the notable winnings being to the credit of users of the Parker. Fred. Gilbert's work stands at the top and no one has ever maintained the remarkably high average, tournament after tournament, as he has this year. The Grand American Handicap at flying targets was won by Chas. Floyd, using a Parker gun. John Parker won the live bird championship of Michigan, using a Parker gun. B. Le Roy has won several flrst averages with a Parker gun. C. W. Budd has held the Hazard live bird trophy against all coiners, killing 96 put of 100 in one match, and 100 straight in another, with only one miss in his last 190, and 169 straight kills. This is certainly a great performance. The Parker gun is noted for its regular, even shooting power, and the records of those using it prove this assertion. Write Parker Bros., Meriden, Conn., for latest catalogue.

Drew Hause

07-31-2009, 07:13 PM

Jan. 30 1904
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1904/VOL_42_NO_20/SL4220018.pdf
The "Old Reliable" Parker gun has once more distinguished itself. At the Hamilton (Canada) shoot, Jan. 12-14 the big event the Grand Canadian Handicap had forty-three entries. Each man shot at 20 live birds from 27 to 31 yards rise.
Not a straight score was made and eight men killed 19 for first place. All of these men used Parker guns. In the shoot-off M. M. Mayhew won first and H. D. Kirkover won second. The Parker gun is handled by all gun dealers

Drew Hause

07-31-2009, 09:41 PM

March 26, 1904
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1904/VOL_43_NO_02/SL4302018.pdf

Fred Gilbert, with the Parker gun, at St. Joseph, Mo.. March 12, defeated Mr. William Clayton, of Kansas City, in the challenge contest for the Wyeth trophy, at live birds, 100 birds per man. Mr. Gilbert killed 98, shooting from the 33-yard mark, and Mr. Clayton 96, from the 29-yard mark. Gilbert scoring the first 70 straight, also 4 practice birds, and killed the last 15 straight in a contest at Seneca, Kan., two days' previous, making a total of 89 straight from the 33-yard mark, making a world's record from this mark. Mr. Gilbert's score of 98 out of 100 is also a world's record from the 33-yard mark.

Drew Hause

08-01-2009, 06:19 PM

June 25, 1904
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1904/VOL_43_NO_15/SL4315032.pdf

Parker Bros., Meriden, Conn., announce that at the recent shoot of the Vicksburg Gun Club, concluded on May 18, the Parker gun has strong reason to be proud of it's record among the amateur shooters. Mr. Ed. Brady, of Memphis, won highest amateur average for the entire shoot, and Mr. Paul Chaudet, of New Orleans, was third; both shooters shooting the Parker gun.
On May 17 at Vicksburg, Mr, Fletcher, of Vicksburg, won the championship cup with a score of 49 out of 50. Mr. Fletcher also shoots the Parker gun.
Frank J. Morse, an architect of Boston, Mass., also an amateur shooter at the
Watertown Gun Club grounds on the 14th of May, made a score of 50 straight. Mr. Morse speaks in highest terms of the performance of the Parker gun, and this record is one to be proud of.
John A. Flick, of Ravine, O., a one-arm ed shooter, shooting the Parker gun on
May 19, broke 23 out of 25 in a gale of wind. No other score was over 18. This was really a wonderful performance for Mr. Flick, and speaks with credit for the performance of the Old Reliable Parker.
At the Columbus shoot, Columbus, Neb., W. D. Townsend, shooting the Parker gun, scored 90 out of 100, tying for second place in competition for the $100 haminerless gun. W. S. Town send won the gold medal event with a score of 49 out of 50. Mr. G. A. Schroeder tied with him on the first 25 straight, Mr. Townsend winning in the shoot off. Both of the above gentlemen shooting the Parker gun.

Parker Brothers announce that Fred Gilbert is certainly making a remarkable record this year, and is doing some wonderful work with his old reliable Parker gun. Mr. Gilbert never shoots any other gun, and maintains that his high scores are due to the faithful performance of the Parker gun. Mr. Gilbert on May 25 made a new world's record from 22 yards rise, breaking 50 targets straight. On May 24, at Marshalltown, la., from 20-yard rise, Mr. Gilbert scored 49 out of 50. May 18, at Dubuque, la., Mr. Gilbert scored 199 out of a possible 200, with 157 straight. In all Mr. Gilbert has shot from May 10 to 27inclusive, 2500 targets on thirteen different days, with an average of 96 3-10 per cent.
At Marshalltown Mr. Gilbert's straight runs of 100, 137 and 118 were simply wonderful. At Winnipeg, Man., Mr. F. G. Simpson, shooting the Parker gun, won the Du Pont trophy, with a score of 46 out of a possible 50. Mr. Simpson is a remarkable shooter and one of considerable note, always shooting the Parker gun.
H. D. Kirkover, Jr., Buffalo, N. Y., on May 24, broke 95 out of 100. Mr. Kirkover is a very popular shooter, and this is his first performance at the traps since the first of January. You may hear from Mr. Kirkover and his Parker gun again.

Drew Hause

08-01-2009, 10:01 PM

Oct. 22, 1904
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1904/VOL_44_NO_06/SL4406013.pdf
DEATH OF E. D. Fulford
Elijah D. Fulford, famous the world over as a trap shot, died at his home in Utica, N. Y., Oct. 15, after a brief illness, of pneumonia. Mr. Fulford was 41 years of age, and for several years past had been employed as a shooting representative by the Union Metallic Cartridge Company and the Remington Arms Co. He was a faithful worker and never lost an opportunity to promote the interests of his employers.
In 1892 Mr. Fulford established a name among shooters all over the world by defeating J. L.
Brewer, at that time the acknowledged champion wing shot of the world. Fulford killed 100 birds straight and Brewer killed 99. In preliminary practice and in the match Fulford scored 421 birds straight, a feat which undoubtedly will never be equalled.
Fulford was a favorite among the shooting fraternity. He was always good natured, genial and entertaining. He was an honest, wholesouled sportsmen and delighted in surrounding himself with a crowd and relating his experiences at trap and jn field. He was an inventor of considerable note, his greatest achievement being the Fulford single trigger. He also invented an automatic target trap of great merit, besides many other things.
Mr. Fulford was a native of Bridgeport, Conn. Besides his wife he leaves three brothers, John W., of Morristown, N. J.: Thomas B., of Schenectady, N. Y., and Robert, of Dillon, Mass.

Drew Hause

08-02-2009, 10:15 PM

April 15, 1905
Parker Bros., Meriden, Conn., have issued their usual calendar for 1905. Besides the months it shows the faces of a number of prominent amateur and expert shots with a record of winnings at the traps during the season by users of the "Old Reliable" Parker gun. The calendar will be popular with trap shooters and attractive in the club room.

Anyone have one?

Bill Murphy

08-04-2009, 11:24 AM

It is pictured in The Parker Story, in the section titled The Paper Trail. It is a rare bird on the collector market. I've never seen one for sale that I can remember.

Drew Hause

08-04-2009, 09:57 PM

June 10 1905
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1905/VOL_45_NO_13/SL4513022.pdf
That the old reliable Parker gun is much in evidence in Southern California is attested by the fact that at the Los Angeles Gun Club shoot, the 22d and 23d of April, 37 per cent, of the contestants shot Parker guns, and the longest run, of 84 straight, was made by Lewis Breer, Jr., using the Parker gun. The Tufts-Lyon Arms Co. medal was won with 43 out of 50 by Guy Lovelace with a Parker gun.

Drew Hause

08-05-2009, 05:42 PM

July 29, 1905
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1905/VOL_45_NO_20/SL4520022.pdf
While the echoes of the Grand American Handicap may have died away, Parker Bros, want to call the attention of the shooting fraternity to the performance of Mr. John A Flick, of Ravenna, O.. a one-armed shooter, who scored with the Parker gun, 97 out of a possible 100 at this famous shoot. The Parker gun also won the World's Team Race with a total of 474 out of 500, and four Parkers out of five shooters in this event. The consolation handicap was also won with the Parker gun in the hands of Mr. J. T. Atkinson. tieing on 99, and shooting out his opponent.
At Waynesboro, Va., on July- 4. Mr. C. H. Newcomb, of Philadelphia, strictly an amateur, won high amateur average, and at Richmond, Va., Decoration Day, also won high amateur average.
At New London, la., the three handicap events held during their last tournament were all won with the Parker gun. Barto, of Chicago, and Gilbert and Garrett all tied on 50 straight, Barto breaking 100 straight to win the event. The second day handicap was won by John Burrneister, with 50 straight, and the third day handicap was won by Fred Gilbert with 50 straight. All of the handicap events were won with the old reliable Parker, in the hands of amateurs in two cases. In three days shooting the old reliable Parker made scores of 200 straight, which is a remarkable performance and proves conclusively the reliability and effectiveness of the famous "Old Reliable."

Drew Hause

08-05-2009, 07:36 PM

Oct. 7, 1905
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1905/VOL_46_NO_04/SL4604031.pdf
At Dominion of Canada tournament, Ottawa, Ont., Mr. T. M. Craig, using a Parker gun, at 19 and 20 yards, won the Lord Grey cup for high average 665 out of 710. W. J. Johnstone, of Ottawa, made longest unfinished run 99 straight winning DuPont cup. One third of guns used at Ottawa were
Parkers.
Fred Coleman, of Philadelphia, Pa.,, was high at Meadow Springs and Coatesville. S. C. Yocum at Shamokin, from April to September shot at 1000 and broke 917. He is an amateur of-merit.
Fred Gilbert, "The Wizard," at home, Spirit Lake, la., August 22 to 25 was high man, with score-of 771 out of 800, and won the first-class cup with 50 straight.
R. C. Derk, at Lock Haven, Pa., scored first high amateur average with score of 261 out of 290, winning DuPont trophy. At Marysville, Pa., Mr. Derk was high amateur average with score of 188 out of 200.
M. K. Atchlson, of Giddings, Texas, at West Texas League Shoot, had second high amateur average with score of 458 out of 480. In 50 target race, he scored 47 out of 50. In gold medal event he scored 50 straight. At Brenham, Texas, July 17 and 18, Mr. Atchison was second high amateur average with 403 out of 425. At Fort Worth, Texas, on the last day he broke 112 straight and 218 out of 225. At San Marcea, August 14 and 15, he was high amateur average from 20 yards mark, with score of 299 out of 340. His Parker gun was a winner sure.
P. D. Alkire, at Dalton, O., made first general average with score of 875 out of 400. At Yellow Bud, O., he was first average with score of 156 out of 160. At Williamsport, O., August 8, he scored 146 out of 150. Also at Williamsport on August 10, Mr. Alkire scored 74 out of 75 with his Parker gun.
At Durham, N. C., Thomasville, Ga., Eufalau, Ala.; Gunthersville, Ala.,: and Morristown, Tenn., Walter Huff won high average using a Parker gun.
At Grand Rapids, W. E. Beeson was high amateur using a Parker gun.
At Pasadena, Cal., J. E. Vaughn broke 143 straight with a Parker gun. John A.
Flick made two scores of 50 straight in matches this season with his Parker. Otto Felger made high amateur average at Grand Rapids with a
Parker gun.
Write for latest catalogue or call on your dealer and examine the Parker gun before purchasing your new gun. Parker Bro., 46 Cherry street, Meriden, Conn.

Drew Hause

08-05-2009, 09:37 PM

Oct. 28, 1905
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1905/VOL_46_NO_07/SL4607014.pdf
Jay D. Greene, of Avon, N. Y., a strict amateur, won high average at
Leroy, N. Y., N shoot, Oct. 5, in a gale of wind, breaking 129 out of 150,
a magnificent showing under the conditions. Mr. Greene is a popular Parker gun man.
M. E. Atchison, of Giddings, Tex., at Paris, Tex., Sept. 25 to 28, won high amateur average with 437 out of 475 at 19 yards rise out of a possible 475. In the live bird race at 30 yards rise Mr. Atchison killed 19 out of 20. Mr. Atchison always uses a Parker gun.
Mr. J. S. Thomas, of Pleasant Hill, Mo., on Sept. 28, at Rich Hill shoot, broke 170 out of 175; out of the last 130 breaking 129 with a straight run of 100. At the same shoot W. A. Smith, of Greenwood, Mo., and Geo. K. Mackay, Scammon, Kans., tied on second with 168 out of 175. All three shooters shot Parker guns.
Mr. Wallace, of Marshalltown, la., at the Brooklyn, la., tournament, Sept.
21, broke 198 out of 200; straight run of 157, using the Parker gun.
Walter Huff, at Valdosta,- Ga., Sept. 19-20, won high average, 274 out of 280, using a Parker gun.
F. McCloughan, of St. Louis, an amateur shooter, on Aug. 28, tied for high amateur average with a score of 153 out of 160. Mr. McCloughan shoots the Parker gun, and it is good shooting,

Drew Hause

08-07-2009, 04:27 PM

Feb. 3, 1906

At the Arizona Sportsmen's Association tournament at Phoenix, December 28-31, Mr. J. N. Aitken, using a Parker gun, was high on the first and second days, and high for the four days with ail average of 933 per cent. He also won the Copper Queen trophv and the Gwynn trophy. Mr. Aitken is an amateur shot.
The following is a record of J. F. Hurt, Tazewell, Va. for 1905. Mr. Hurt, is an amateur, shooting the Parker gun, with which these scores were made: Total number of targets shot at 7125; total number of targets broken 6621; average for the entire season, over 92 per cent. In the five successive days' shoot at local grounds at Tazewell, Va. in August, Mr. Hurt broke 481 out of 500 targets, an average of 96 per cent. At the shoot at Tazewell Fair September 12, Mr. Hurt broke 94 out of 100; winning first prize and high gun. Second day at Tazewell Fair he broke 189 out of 200, winning high gun and first money and first prize in all ten events participated in during the day, in which contest over thirty shooters participated.
At the Grand Canadian Handicap, held at Hamilton. Ont. January 16 to 19, the Old Reliable Parker Gun was much in evidence. Thomas Upton, winner of the live-bird event, with a score of 34 out of 35, is an exceptional record at live birds, and reflects credit upon the Parker gun. Live bird shooting is the most severe test of a shot gun, and this record is particularly flattering to Parker Bros. The first, second and third amateur averages at inanimate targets were carried off by Parker guns in the hands of C. E. Doolittle of Cleveland; Jay D. Green, Avon, N. Y., and H. D. Kirkover. Jr., of Buffalo, respectively, showing that the Parker gun is a winner in the hands of amateurs, no matter where used.

Drew Hause

08-07-2009, 04:36 PM

Feb. 17, 1906
Fred J. Gilbert is reported seriously ill at his home at Spirit Lake. The
trouble (the Feb. 3 edition reported an attack of "tonsillitis") has developed into a serious attack of inflammatory rheumatism, from which his physicians are not expecting speedy recovery. He probably will not be able to participate at all in spring and early summer shooting contests.

March 3
The condition of Fred Gilbert, the world's champion, who is suffering with inflammatory rheumatism at his home in Spirit Lake, Iowa, is no better, and advices from his home are that he has lost from fifty to sixty pounds.

March 17
There is no improvement in the condition of Fred Gilbert to be reported. The latest from his home in Des Moines, la., is that he is so badly crippled with rheumatism that it is doubtful if he goes to the traps again in many months. The attack has been long continued.

April 14
Through the kindness of Mr. V. V Dorp, of Shannon & Sons, this city, we a,re able to give our readers a late bulletin regarding the convalescence of Mr. Fred Gilbert, of Spirit Lake Iowa, the one-time duck shooter, who later has devoted his days to demonstrating the art of wing shooting as applied to artificial targets. Under date of April 2, Mr. Gilbert writes:
"I am pleased to report that I am slowly improving and am now able to walk across the room without help. Will go to Hot Springs, Ark., as soon as able to travel, and feel assured that
this will straighten me out all O. K. Of course will not be able to shoot for some time. Was down to 120 pounds at one time, so must 'get some flesh and strength back. Hoping to see you during the season, I remain, etc.'"
That his recovery be speedy and thorough, seems to be the wish of everybody in this section and all others.

August 11
Fred Gilbert, in some practice at Kansas City, broke 93 out of 100 targets, an indication of returning health.

Drew Hause

08-11-2009, 05:40 PM

Sept. 29, 1906
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1906/VOL_48_NO_03/SL4803032.pdf
W. R. Crosby. with the "Old Reliable" Parker Gun. August 25. 1906. at Denver. Colo.. scored 298 out of 300, and won the Western Handicap with the record score of 97 out of 100 at 21 yards. At the Indian Tournament, Mr. Crosbv
scored 583 out of 600. At Pocatello, Idaho, August 27 and 28. the Parker gun again took high averages, first and second—W. R Crosby 400 out of 425; Walter Huff. 407 out of 425.
Mr. R. C. Derk. with his Parker gun. on August 13 and 14, at Lock Haven, Pa., scored 326 out of 350. At St. Mary's, Pa., Mr. Derk tied for high amateur average 368 out of 400.
Mr. J S Thomas and the Parker gun, at Kansas City August 13 to 17 won high amateur average August 15 and on August 16 won second high amateur average and the State champion amateur event.
Mr. Jay D. Greene, shooting a Parker gun. won high amateur average at
LeRoy. N. Y.. September 3; scored 106 out of 120. Dr. Gardner, of Batavia, N. Y.. also shooting a Parker gun, was second high, with 100 out of 120, in face of a high wind.
Records such as the above prove the merits and strong shooting qualities of the Parker gun.

Drew Hause

08-11-2009, 06:33 PM

Nov. 17, 1906
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1906/VOL_48_NO_10/SL4810014.pdf
Fred Gilbert, the world-renowned trap shot, after a year's illness, was high gun at Des Moinos, la., for three days—October 30. 31 and November 1—with a score of 580 out of a possible 600. Of course, everybody knows that Fred Gilbert never shoots anything but a Parker gun, and he is one of the most popular trap shooters who has ever faced the trap. Fred's friends, who are legion, will be more than pleased to note that he has sufficiently recovered his health to enable him to get back into the game, and certainly this wonderful performance of breaking 97 per cent, for three days' tournament after such a long time had elapsed since his last shooting, is one of the most remarkable, if not the most remarkable performances he has ever made, considering the conditions. His many friends certainly hope that he and the Parker gun will, enjoy many more tournaments of this kind, and that he will continue from this out to show a steady improvement.
Such a performance as this speaks well for the Parker, and there is no gun its equal when it comes to shooting qualities and absolute satisfaction to the user.
If you are interested in a gun and contemplate purchasing in the near future, you would do well to write Parker Bros., Meriden. Conn., No. 46 Cherry street.

Drew Hause

08-11-2009, 10:11 PM

Dec, 22, 1906
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1906/VOL_48_NO_15/SL4815014.pdf
Among the Parker Gun winners of 1906 is O. N. Ford, of Kansas City, who has been doing some extraordinary good work at the trap during the past season. Mr. Ford is a guard at the Federal prison at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and if he can do as well with the rifle as his record proves he can do with a shot gun, an escaping prisoner would certainly stand a poor show of making a successful break.
In April last Ford obtained a month's furlough and in seven shoots at Leavenworth, Kansas City, Great Bend, Wichita, Coffeyville, Blackwell. Okla., and Tulsa. I. T., broke 2887 out of a possible 3055, or 94 .5 percent., with a high run of 190 straight. Although an amateur, Mr. Ford has outshot champions in both the amateur and professional classes, in addition to the most noted experts in the trap shooting game, among these being Guy Ward and Walter Huff, amateur and professional champions respectively of 1900; Rogers and Barber, both G. A. H. winners; Riehl, Kahler, Vietmeyer, Heer, McMurchy, Vench, the great and only Crosby, and others of like calibre.
At Craig. Mo., on November 30. Mr. Ford won the Wyeth World's Championship trophy by breaking 46 out of 50 targets; also the high amateur average for the two days' shooting with 376 breaks out of 400 targets shot at. A splendid performance with a splendid gun.
If Mr. Ford continues in his present form and decides to take a crack at the 1907 Grand American, he will be very apt to make the best of them sit up and take notice. All of this shooting has been done with a Parker gun.

Drew Hause

08-13-2009, 07:06 PM

Fred Gilbert won High Professional Average at the The Iowa State shoot May 1907 with a score of 576/600.

Drew Hause

08-13-2009, 10:35 PM

1907 GAH in Chicago
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1907/VOL_49_NO_16/SL4916024.pdf
GAH - Jeff J. Blanks shooting a Remington Autoloader 96/100.
Amateur Championship (200 targets at 18 yds.) - Hugh Clark, Urbana Ill. 188 with a Smith, DuPont powder in Winchester shells.
Professional Championship - W. R. Crosby 192; Parker, DuPont, Winchester Leader shells. Fred Gilbert 2nd 190; Parker.
High Average for the Tournament - John R. Taylor; Leader shells and Winchester 1897- 470/ 500

Drew Hause

08-21-2009, 06:16 PM

Sept. 28 1907
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1907/VOL_50_NO_03/SL5003022.pdf
The Parker gun noticeably shared in the Western Handicap honors as Tom E. Graham won the big event from 19 yards with 99 out of 100 targets. Messrs. Parker Bros. also point with pride to the fact that Mr. H. R. Bonser won the second amateur average for three August days at Denver with 387 out of 400targets, which nicely supplements his win of the Eastern Handicap at Boston in July.
The Southern Handicap likewise went to the man behind a Parker gun and the professional championship at Chicago was won by a Parker in the hands of W.
R. Crosby. Write to Parker Bros., 31 Cherry St., Meriden, Conn., for their latest catalogue.

Drew Hause

08-21-2009, 09:46 PM

Jan. 18 1908
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1908/VOL_50_NO_19/SL5019014.pdf
Among the many souvenir cards of greeting sent the Gun Editor is to be noted a photo of Fred Gilbert's seven-year-old son, Thomas Marshall Gilbert, showing how he celebrated the New Year. The successful combination is a bunch of pigeons, a twenty gauge Parker Hammerless, some boxes of
Winchester-Du Pont shells and last, but not least, a bright-eyed boy who inherits his father's skill. How about Annie Oakley Gilbert ? Does she take after her illustrious namesake is what we all want to know ?

Gilbert had the high average for 1907 and Crosby was 2nd; both shooting Parkers.
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1908/VOL_50_NO_21/SL5021016.pdf

Drew Hause

08-22-2009, 04:51 PM

Ninth annual Grand American Handicap of the Interstate Association, Columbus, O. June 22-26, 1908
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1908/VOL_51_NO_17/SL5117024.pdf
The Professional Championship was won by Fred Gilbert, of Spirit Lake, la., over R. R. Barber, both men breaking 188. Gilbert then ran off his string of twenty while his opponent dropped 17 in the shoot-off.

Drew Hause

08-23-2009, 06:51 PM

March 6 1909
The Interstate Individual Amateur Pigeon Cup Race at 25 live birds, held at Kansas City, February 17, 1909, was won by Mr. Frank Fuller, shooting THE PARKER GUN, and scoring 24 out of 25, tying four men, and winning on the shoot-off with 5 straight killed. This splendid piece of work was done with
THE PARKER GUN.
THE PARKER GUN in the hands of Mr. Fred. Gilbert, who shot from the 33-yard mark, won the Great Western Handicap at live birds, held in Kansas City, February 19, 1909, scoring 24 out of 25, and 12 straight in the shoot-off.
This demonstrates what we have always said that THE PARKER GUN is the strongest and closest-shooting gun made.

Drew Hause

08-24-2009, 04:33 PM

June 26, 1909
The Old Reliable Parker Gun, in the hands of Mr. Lester S. German, made the
longest straight run that has been made this year at registered tournaments, by breaking 339 with out a miss.
This wonderful shooting was done on three consecutive days, and on two different grounds at Bellairs Grove, St. Louis, Mo., June 5 and 6, and at Moberly, Mo., June 7.

Bill Murphy

08-24-2009, 05:37 PM

Drew, do we know what Les German's dates of birth and death are? My Mother went to live with her aunt in Bethesda, MD when she left home to work. Years later, when I was a youngster, we would visit her aunt in Bethesda, MD. Her next door neighbor was an old gentleman named Les German. This was in the late forties and early fifties. I have never heard of Les German the shooter living anywhere but Aberdeen, MD, but he may have retired somewhere else. Can anyone help?

Drew Hause

08-24-2009, 06:24 PM

Born: June 1, 1869
Baltimore, Maryland
Died: June 10, 1934 (aged 65)
Germantown, Maryland

http://www.traphof.org/german-lester-stanley.htm

Bill Murphy

08-24-2009, 08:01 PM

Thanks, Drew. Les was a ball player, and Walter Johnson, another average ball player, owned a farm in Germantown that I can see from my upper deck. Walter used to invite his buddies for bird hunts on his farm every year. I'm sure that the death of our hero Les German in Germantown was somehow related to a visit with Walter Johnson. What a piece of research lies before us. By the way, Germantown is about three towns or ten miles up the Frederick Pike from Bethesda where the other Les German lived next door to my Mother's aunt. I need help.

Dave Suponski

08-24-2009, 08:55 PM

Now Bill...Walter Johnson was a bit more than an average ball player:rolleyes:But you knew that...right?

Bill Murphy

08-24-2009, 09:11 PM

I'm very serious about the Walter Johnson, Les German connection. Up until my adulthood, Germantown, MD was nothing more than a feed store and a B&O station. I'm convinced that Les was there to visit Walter Johnson, or to stay the summer, as was common with Walter's friends. He was the great entertainer. I have read in the LA84foundation archives about the bird hunting at ballplayer Eddie Plank's place in Gettysburg, and the guest lists. The same sort of situation existed at Johnson's place in Germantown. Lots of hospitality, lots of birds and shotguns. My interest in Eddie Plank is a result of shooting his old PHE Trap, which is my go to crossover gun. I am almost convinced that the Les German that was my Aunt Agnes' neighbor was the son of our Parker shooter Les German. As much as I have read about Les German, I have never read anything about his family. Your turn, Drew.

Drew Hause

08-25-2009, 06:07 PM

April 23, 1910
ANOTHER proof of the wonderful and consistent shooting qualities of the PARKER GUN. At Cleveland, April 2, L. S. German shot at 50 pairs and broke 96 out of the 100 targets.
A splendid demonstration of the shooting ability of the man and the shooting qualities of the "OLD RELIABLE" PARKER GUN.

Drew Hause

08-25-2009, 07:34 PM

German won High Professional Average at the Penn. State Shoot in May, 1910 with 534/555.

Bill Murphy

08-25-2009, 09:10 PM

Come on, Drew, you're a world class researcher. See if you can find out if the Les German who lived on Maple Ridge Road in Bethesda, Maryland in the early fifties was, in fact Lester S. German, who we may suspect is our Les German's son, our Les German who was also known as L.S. German. Thanks.

Bill Murphy

08-25-2009, 09:35 PM

According to the HOF blurb, Les did not have a son named Les, but who knows how accurate all that information actually is?

Drew Hause

08-25-2009, 09:48 PM

http://www.aberdeenroom.com/archive.html
The Garretson Family Bible shows that Lester Stanley German and Alice Mary Garretson of Aberdeen were married in August 1895. They built the large Victorian home at 17 North Philadelphia Blvd. (Now Route 40) then known as Broadway. It is just across the street from Cecil Federal Bank. The house has been converted to modern use, by adding a store front. Les and Alice lived here happily, according to family, when Les was not traveling with a team - either New York or Washington of the National League. Alice went with Les on the road trips until she became a mother.
After the two boys were born, Alice remained at home Les made the rounds with his team. The little fellows died very early in their lives and are buried at Baker’s Cemetery, at the top of the hill, where Alice and Les are both at rest. Alice died at the age of 34 in 1908 and several years later Les married again to another member of an old Aberdeen family, Grace Evans. They had a daughter, Ruth, and a son, Crosby. Much of their time was spent in Florida, but they kept the home on Broadway in Aberdeen. Lester passed away in 1934.

Drew Hause

08-25-2009, 09:57 PM

Les was High General Average at the New Jersey State Shoot, Atlantic City, June 1-4, 1910 583/600.

Drew Hause

08-28-2009, 03:46 PM

1910 GAH Chicago
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1910/VOL_55_NO_17/SL5517024.pdf
1910 June 23, Chicago, Ill., 364 starters, Riley Thompson, 19yds. Broke 100.

Trade Reps
A. H. Fox Gun Co. -A. W. Connor, Ad. R. Roll.
Hunter Arms Co. - H. McMurchey, A. P. Curtis, E. A. W. Everett, J. T. Skelly, W. L. Stannard, Arthur Killam.
Parker Bros. - S. A. Tucker.

Riley Thompson (using a Parker) is from Cainesville, Missouri, and the fact that Harvey McMurchey had finished his 100 with only one down did not bother the "Show Me" at all. He took his place for the last round, and paying no attention to the large crowd which still remained for the finish, proceeded to smash target after target, until the referee called "dead” for the twentieth, when the shooters rushed, lifted him on their shoulders and carried him to the club house, where he was surrounded by those anxious to shake his hand.
Among the first to tender congratulations was Harvey McMurchey, who was runner-up with 99. J. Graham, Long Lake, Ill., and Geo. Volk, Toledo, O., were in third place with 98 each.

Drew Hause

08-29-2009, 07:10 PM

At the Post-Series Tournament Indianapolis, Ind., October 17-21, 1910
THE SPECIAL MATCH for the Ten High Professionals During 1910 was won by L. S. German, shooting the Parker gun. Score 234x250; 18 yds. rise.
HIGH GENERAL AVERAGE—All Programme Events, Including 100 Pairs. Second place was won by L. S. German, shooting his Parker gun. Score 960x1000 shot at; 96%.
HIGH GENERAL AVERAGE ON DOUBLES-Second, Fred Gilbert, 178x200; 89%. Third, L. S. German, 177x200; .885%.

Drew Hause

08-30-2009, 06:52 PM

At the Great Western Handicap, held at Kansas City, Mo., Friday, February 17, (1911) Mr. Fred Gilbert won the event by the magnificent score of 25 straight, and 5 straight in the shoot-off of the tie, standing at the extreme handicap mark of 33 yds. Mr. Fred Cockerel at 30 yds. and Mr. H. Dunnell at 31 yds., made scores of 25 straight. These three gentlemen were the only ones to tie and were all shooting the "OLD RELIABLE" PARKER GUN.
Mr. Gilbert at this tournament shot at 475 targets, losing but 21, thereby winning first average for the tournament.

Drew Hause

08-30-2009, 07:07 PM

On January 11-13, 1911, The "OLD RELIABLE" PARKER GUN, shot by Howard D. Bates, of of Ridgetown, Ont, again won the Grand Canadian Handicap at live birds killing 25 straight and 9 in the shoot-off, from the limit distance of 31 yards.
Mr. Bates shot at 54 birds during the tournament and killed them all. This is some shooting!

Drew Hause

08-31-2009, 03:46 PM

Brownsville, Pa., June 29. — The two-day registered tournament of the Brownsville Rod and Gun Club, on June 27 and 28, proved an attractive event, particularly to the crack shooters returning from the Grand American Handicap. As a result nearly a half hundred marksmen faced the, traps for the two days.
Lester German, the famous shooter from Aberdeen, Md., who won the professional single and doubles championship of America, at the Grand American, was the high gun over all for two days with 291 out of 300. H. H. Stevens, of New Rochelle, N. Y., was second professional with 288 broken, and Horace Kirkwood, of Wollaston, Mass.. third expert, with 282. The amateur honors for two days fell to Lon Fisher, of Columbus, who broke 290.

AT THE GRAND AMERICAN HANDICAP, Columbus, Ohio, June 23, 1911, Mr. Lester German, of Aberdeen, Md., won the Professional Championship from the 18 yard mark, with the remarkable score of 198 out of 200 targets, defeating the best shooters in the country. Ever since the inauguration of this high class event, it has been won by The Old Reliable Parker, and is conceded to be the severest test of man and gun. It also emphasizes the fact that The Parker Gun is the strongest shooting, and makes the most even pattern of any gun made. The Professional Championship is a scratch event—all shooters standing on the 18 yard mark.
Mr. German the same day again demonstrated the value of The Parker Gun in competition, by defeating a large field of the best shooters in the country in the Championship event at double targets, breaking 89 out of 100,from the 16yard mark.
In the Preliminary Handicap Mr. C. B. Eaton, an amateur of Fayette, Mo., shooting The Parker Gun, made the phenomenal score of 99 out of 100 targets, and tied with Mr. Buckwalter. In the shoot-off Mr. Eaton defeated his opponent with a straight run of 20, thus winning the event.
This remarkable shooting is only one of many reasons why you should shoot The Parker Gun

http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1911/VOL_57_NO_18/SL5718027.PDF

Drew Hause

08-31-2009, 04:37 PM

Image of Les
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1911/VOL_57_NO_22/SL5722029.PDF

Drew Hause

09-01-2009, 06:22 PM

AT SPRINGFIELD, ILL., JUNE 17-22, 1912 GAH
THE OLD RELIABLE Parker Gun Won the Following Important Events; More than Any Other Two Guns Combined
THE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP OF AMERICA, by E. W. Varner, of Adams, Neb., from the 18-yard mark. Score 192x200.
THE PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AT DOUBLES, by Fred Gilbert, of Spirit Lake, Iowa, from the 16-yard mark. Score 84x100.
THE PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AT SINGLES, by W. R. Crosby, of O'Fallon, Ills., from the 18-yard mark. Score 198x200.
Gilbert and Crosby tied for High General Average for the four days' shooting, each breaking 550x600 targets shot at.
IT TAKES A GOOD MAN AND A GOOD GUN TO MAKE SUCH SCORES

Drew Hause

09-02-2009, 09:15 PM

1952x2000 or .976%
THIS score was made by the "OLD RELIABLE" PARKER GUN in the hands of Bill Crosby, again demonstrating to the shooters of the world that the PARKER GUN makes the highest scores.
The above mentioned score won for the PARKER GUN and Mr. Crosby the Professional Season's Average for the year 1912, and was completed at the Post Season Tournament, Cincinnati, 0., Oct. 15 to 18, 1912.

Drew Hause

09-06-2009, 06:28 PM

July 19, 1913
THE "OLD RELIABLE" AT DAYTON, OHIO, JUNE 17-21, gave a wonderful demonstration of its unsurpassed shooting powers.
In the G. A. H. Arthur Killam, at 20 yds., made a score of 96x100. W. R. Crosby, at 22 yds., made a similar score, and Walter Huff, at 21 yds., scored 97x100. Mr. Huff's score was high in the professional class, and won for him the special money prize and medal offered for the best professional score in this event.
The high general average for the entire week's tournament was made by Walter Huff, with score of 752x800. W. R. Crosby made second high score, 749x800. The above scores included the double target events.
Such splendid shooting from practically the extreme handicap distance amply demonstrates that for power of holding together shot at extreme ranges, and for, accuracy of shooting, the Parker Gun cannot be surpassed.

Drew Hause

09-08-2009, 08:57 AM

The PARKER GUN At the Grand American Handicap Tournament
DAYTON, OHIO, SEPTEMBER 8-11, 1914
Won FIRST, SECOND and THIRD Places in the National Amateur Championship at Double Targets; 90 x 100, Woolfolk Henderson: 89 x 100, Sam Huntley; 88 x 100, Wm. Wettleaf.
The National Amateur Championship at Single Targets, was won by the Parker Gun in the hands of Woolfolk Henderson, 99 x 100. Last but not least, Mr. Henderson and his Parker Gun won the peer of all American Trap Shooting events, the Grand American Handicap, 98x100, from the 22 yard mark. Never before has this event been won from such a distance

Christopher Lien

09-09-2009, 05:58 PM

The distinguished Mr. Henderson of Lexington, KY with his high grade Parker...

Best, CSL
___________________________

http://www.webpak.net/~dslcslien/1WHenderson2.jpg

.

Drew Hause

09-10-2009, 10:38 AM

Great pic Chris-looks like he's wearing his 'white bucks.'

Woolfolk used a Parker as an amateur, but went Pro in 1910
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1910/VOL_54_NO_20/SL5420023.pdf
Mr. Woolfolk Henderson, of Lexington, Ky., who has been known as one of the leading amateur trapshooters of the country for two or three years past, on January 1st, joined the professional ranks, as a representative of The Peters Cartridge Company, shooting Peters shells, du Pont powder and a Lefever gun. Mr. Henderson’s scores during 1909 indicate very exceptional ability, and this with his consistent loyalty to Peters ammunition have their logical result in his employment by The Peters Company. He is sure to, add rapidly to the already long list of friends he has made far himself and the goods he will represent. In the year 1909 from April 29th to December 22d, Mr. Henderson shot at 9495 targets, breaking 9008, an average of .9487 per cent (using a Parker). Beginning with the Southern Handicap at Nashville, Tenn., May 4th, 5th and 6th, he shot at 8995 targets, breaking 8597, an average of .9557 per cent., a record which has never been exceeded or equaled by any amateur shooting at this number of targets.
Throughout the year he used Peters factory loaded Ideal shells with 3 1/8 drams du Pont smokeless powder, 1 1/4 oz. No. 7 1/2 Ch. shot.

I didn't find any mention as to when he went back to Amateur status, or started using his Parker again. Peters continued to advertise his using their shells however.
He had a big year in 1914. In addition to winning both the GAH Handicap and Doubles, he had the High Amateur Average, AND the High Amateur Average in 1915 at .9753.

Drew Hause

09-11-2009, 04:35 PM

1910 Chicago GAH won by Fred Shattuck (Parker), of Columbus, Ohio.
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1909/VOL_53_NO_19/SL5319026.pdf
Score 116 x 120 in a shoot-off over John R. Livingston (Winchester pump), of Springville, Ala., (19 yds.), William Wettleaf, (Parker) of Nichols, Ia., (19 yds.) and George E. Burns (Winchester pump), of Cleveland, O., (16 yds.)

Fred Shattuck and his Parker

http://pic20.picturetrail.com:80/VOL1373/6511424/19974446/373890175.jpg

Fred Gilbert Professional Championship and his 32" Parker

http://pic20.picturetrail.com:80/VOL1373/6511424/19974446/373890173.jpg

Drew Hause

09-11-2009, 04:41 PM

W.R. Crosby won the Professional Average at the 1905 GAH on the 16 yard mark breaking 298 out of 300 with a run of 213 straight. He had the Longest Run on targets in 1905 at Canton, Ohio, June 14-15, when he broke 419 straight. At the Philadelphia Eastern Handicap July, 1906 he was using a Parker with 32" barrels for the first time, having switched from a L.C. Smith. He also won the Professional Championship at the 1907 GAH in Chicago representing DuPont and using Winchester Leader shells and his Parker with a score of 192/200.
June 17-22, 1912 GAH at Springfield, Ill., Crosby won the Professional Championship at Singles, from the 18-yard mark, with 198x200. Gilbert and Crosby tied for High General Average for the four days' shooting, each breaking 550x600 targets.

http://pic20.picturetrail.com:80/VOL1373/6511424/19974446/312323600.jpg

John Dallas

09-13-2009, 06:13 PM

"Throughout the year he used Peters factory loaded Ideal shells with 3 1/8 drams du Pont smokeless powder, 1 1/4 oz. No. 7 1/2 Ch. shot"

Ouch! 9000 targets with 1 1/4 oz loads. My teeth and shoulder hurt.

Drew Hause

09-13-2009, 06:48 PM

http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1897/VOL_30_NO_06/SL3006018.pdf
Kansas City, Oct. 23 1897
A remarkable exhibition of live pigeon shooting was given at Exposition Park, this city, yesterday afternoon, when Fred Gilbert, of Spirit Lake, Ia., and J. A. R. Elliott, of this city, met in a match at 100 live birds for $100 a side and the DuPont trophy, which Elliott won from C. W. Budd a few weeks ago with the score of 99 out of 100. J. A. R. Elliott has been practically invincible on Kansas City grounds for years and not until Fred Gilbert came, like a meteor from the sky. has the local man found his equal. When Gilbert won the "Star" cup from Elliott, on Oct. 8, by the score of 95 to 94, he showed such form that there was much speculation as to the result of the race yesterday. "Jim" Elliott is a veteran at the traps while Fred Gilbert was unknown as a live bird shot until in
October 1895, when he won the DuPont trophy in Baltimore against a large field of crack shots. Since that time his rise has been rapid and his work in the last match with Elliott stamps him as one of the best pigeon shots in the country and one capable of holding the title of champion shot.
The match was for the DuPont trophy at 100 live birds each man, 30 yards rise. The birds were the best that could be procured which makes the scores quite remarkable. Gilbert and Elliott tied at 97, then Gilbert won 25 to 24 in the shoot-off.
Gilbert used an L. C. Smith hammerless gun, 3 3/4 drams DuPont smokeless powder, 1 1/4 oz. (!) No. 7 chilled shot in Winchester Leader shells.
J. A. R. Elliott used a Winchester repeating shotgun, 3 1/2 drams, E. C. powder, 1 1/4 No. 7 1/2 and 6 chilled shot; Leader shells, loaded by Winchester Repeating Arms Co.

http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1897/VOL_30_NO_12/SL3012023.pdf
Cast Iron Medal, emblematic of championship of America, and a purse of $200, was shot on Watson’s Shooting Grounds. R.O. Heikes (using a Winchester 1897 pump) won the match by killing 91 out of 100 birds, taking the Cast Iron Medal and the $200.
Grimm killed 87 out of the 100 birds, using an L. C. Smith gun, 3 1/4 drams Du Pont powder in a 3-inch U. M. C. Smokeless shell, for first barrel, and 3 1/2 drams Du Pont powder in a 3 1/4-inch U. M. C. Trap shell in second barrel, 1 1/4 ounces No. 7 chilled shot in both barrels.

Jan. 2 1897
http://www.la84foundation.org/SportsLibrary/SportingLife/1897/VOL_28_NO_15/SL2815017.pdf
Charles Grimm defeats Doc Carver in Chicago for the “Cast Iron Metal”
Grimm used a 12-bore L. C. Smith gun, 7 3/4 pounds, 3 3/4 drams Schultze, 1 1/4 ounce No. 7 shot, in U. M. C. Trap shell.
Carver used a 12-bore Cashmore gun, 8 pounds weight, 4 drams of Carver powder, 1 1/4 No. 7 shot, in U. M. C. Trap shell.

Carver was a big guy, 6'4" and over 250# but wow :eek: