The Guns of J.P. Sousa
I had the honor of preparing for re-display the two L.C. Smith shotguns owned and used by John Philip Sousa that are held in the collection of the National Museum of the Marine Corps. Both were donated by his grandson. One is a special ordered 12 gauge, A2 grade with 32" barrels which according to his grandson was used for duck hunting. The second is a Field grade, FW 20 gauge with 26" barrels which Sousa purchased late in life after being seriously injured in a riding accident. Both are fitted with the Miller Single Trigger.
According to the artifact record file, Sousa's grandson noted that Sousa owned many shotguns to include Parkers and at least one Purdey, ordered in 1911. He also noted that they "had all been sold off years ago."
Does anyone know the whereabouts of these? I know that the Trapshooting Hall of Fame holds an Ithaca Trap Gun owned by Sousa. Thanks in advance if anyone has some information.
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