Fun research project

[Dylan Rhodes]

I came into an 11 gauge lifter recently and was delighted to find an abundance of information on the original owner. Thought folks might appreciate it.

Could be the last 11 gauge 28” Damascus. Unfortunately, the PT barrels are no longer present. Took it out today for some fun, 152 years later. :)

Also, I finally found a use for AI that I can get behind.

[Garry L Gordon]

How ‘bout the Cliff Notes on your find…I can’t read from your photos.

[Dylan Rhodes]

Titus Hamilton was a farmer on Kelley’s island, Ohio who was born in 1844 and served in the civil war for the 130th infantry in 1864. He married in 1888 before moving to 126 abbey street sometime before 1899 and ultimately succumbing to a stroke (apoplexy) in June of 1913. He liked to frequent the lodge on the island to play checkers and had numerous kids. His wife survived until 1946. The house is now a bed and breakfast on Kelley’s island.


Most certainly this 11 gauge was a waterfowl gun.

[Garry L Gordon]

Thanks, Dylan. I assume the Kelly’s Island is the one just North of Cedar Point. What a great find with information to add that human element to your gun. To know who might have held your gun and something of his past is part of the charm of using these pieces of history. Congratulations.

[Rick Roemer]

That’s a great find and interesting history. I’ve hunted waterfowl off Kelly’s and the other islands at Lake Erie. It would be cool to “take her home” and put her back in service.
If possible repost the letters, etc to make them clearer to read. Thx

[Dan Steingraber]

Very cool stuff. Our family has vacationed on Kelley’s Island many times and made countless day trips. In our younger days I convinced my wife to ride jet skis over to the island for a day trip. Very funny story for another time. Congratulations on your special Parker.

[William Machauer]

You inspired me to start looking for the gentleman that ordered my VH20. It appears he owned a cannery in DE. There is a road named for him so I guess he was a rather prominent fellow.
I found an historical society and have sent them an email asking for any info they may have.

[Dylan Rhodes]

More clear images as requested