What do I have?

[Dee Durham]

This has a serial# of 126696 and I gan gather that it is a DH but cannot get the barrell off to look at the other stamping and give more accurate info. Also, on the barrell it is stamped Titanic Steel. Here are a few pictures that I took of it, if anyone can decipher anything from it. Thanks in advance for any info! I'm also adding a pic of my Great Grandfather with the gun that I found in the case it was stored in....

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[Dean Romig]

Unfortunately Dee, that gun was "rode hard and put away wet".

Restoring that gun would cost far more than it would worth when done.

How sad for your Grandfather's Parker legacy.

But welcome to the PGCA Forum. I'm sure someone will look up the specifics on that gun.

[George Lander]

Hello Dee: I'm going to disagree with Dean on this one. What you have (according to the "book") is a Parker hammerless T14 or CHE Grade 16 gauge with capped pistol grip stock and 28 inch Titanic Steel barrels made in 1904. Your gun needs total restoration in that it is in, as Dean pointed out, very poor condition and off the face. What you have is a fairly rare Parker with family provenance. I would suggest ordering a research letter from PGCA for $40 and see what information it would provide. Tell us where you are located and perhaps we can recommend a Parker restoration expert to bring your Great Grandfather's gun back to life. It won't be cheap but IMHO this gun deserves it.

Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

I am located in Hurst, TX. I found this under my Grandpa's bed just recently after my Dad, Grandma and Grandpa all passed this past April, May, and June. I took the pictures just as I had found it due to reading about not trying to "clean" it up or do anything to it until I had it appraised. Thank you for all of the information and advice you have given. I appreciate it.

[George Lander]

Dee: Whatever you do don't try to "clean" it yourself. Let an expert do that. Others here who are more familiar with Parker restoration experts in Texas will, probably, post here shortly. If you wanted to you could call my chosen expert, Jim Kelly of the Darlington, Gun Works, Darlington, South Carolina at (843) 393-3931 and discuss it with him & e-mail him some pictures. He could probably give you a "ballpark figure" on restoration.

Do go to this home page and click on "research letters" and order one. You'll be glad that you did. I am sorry for your loss.

Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Again, thank you so very much! Rest assured that I would never "clean" it myself..lol. I was taught to NEVER do that and to always take it to a professional. May I ask what is the value of this gun by chance? And is it worth the cost of the restoration vs the value of the gun?

[Dave Suponski]

Dee, Welcome and thanks for stopping in. Because this is a great family gun if I owned it I would have to at least try to bring it back and the money be damned. You have gotten some very good advice here about who to send it to.Just don,t try to do it yourself. Maybe its just me but I get a little sentimental about family guns and a C Grade Parker is a "special" gun.

Is there anyway you could enhance that great picture of "Grandpa"?

[Steve Huffman]

How can that gun be that far off face and still fit into the dolls head slot

[E Robert Fabian]

My guess is that the gun isn't closed in the last picture.
Bob

[Bill Murphy]

I don't believe the two pictures were taken with the gun in the same state of "closed". Dee, take a picture of the entire gun from the side for us. Also, take a closeup of the action of the gun again from the side with the gun as closed as you can get it, like in the picture taken from the top of the action. The gun in fine condition is worth from $8000 to $12,000, maybe more. In restored condition, it would be worth much less.

[Steve Huffman]

That kinda what I thought but first looks flush on top

[Dee Durham]

Okay....I am a young lady with no prior knowledge of guns and their terms. So with my ignorance of such terms, I have to say that I don't know what you are talking about when you say "closed" "action" or "dolls head". I will take more pictures when I get home of anything anyone may need to look at. Please forgive me for not understanding, but put in simple terms, and I'm sure I can get it. Thanks to everyone welcoming me to the site and please know that I am truly greatful for everyone here. Thanks!

[Steve Huffman]

Stick in there young lady your in for a ride of your life.

[Bruce Day]

Clean and re brown barrels $300

Clean, glue and refinish wood sparingly $300 if done outside but a skilled amateur can do it him/her self.

Lightly clean rust bloom off action frame. N.C.

TIG weld barrel hook and file to put on face. $200


What does "the ride of your life mean"?

This is a gun that was in poor condition, everything covered by a fine bloom of red rust, the barrels had to be re browned, the rust picked off the frame, the badly fractured wood was in pieces and had to be glued and pinned back together, some parts rechecked and the stock refinished. My guess is that its worth more now than when it was found in the chicken coop and worth more now than the cost of acquisition and repair but I'm no expert.

[Dee Durham]

Oh my!!!! Should I be worried?......................

[Steve Huffman]

No but your going to get educated on Parkers and also you will get to know the PM side of this If you havent already.

[Dee Durham]

I'm all for getting educated! I'm somewhat familiar with pistols and a few hunting rifles, but nothing of this magnitude. I could say thank you all day long, but thank you would not begin to scratch the surface on the knowledge and expertise that everyone here is offering me. I'm ready for the ride...none of my interest is based solely around the value. I'm very curious concerning the background, family use, and all around sentiment that this gun holds as well. I will get the letter from this site ASAP regarding documented facts. Thanks again!

[Steve Huffman]

Bruce, A ride of your life meant a very fun time. as I have had in learning about these wonderful guns .

[Bruce Day]

Wasn't sure. It was out of context for me. I've heard that two memorable times, once when I strapped into the back seat of an F-4D and another when I went through the Taos Box of the Rio Grande during flood stage. They were wild and memorable rides.

[George Lander]

Dee: The "doll's head" is the piece of the top rib that projects out from the rear of the barrels and fits into the same shaped slot in the top of the action. The top rib is the piece on top between the two barrels. The action is the main body of the gun that the butt stock is attached to. When the barrels are completely closed into the action the top lever should come back to center. Bill & Bruce gave you a good aproximation as to the value and restoration costs for your gun. Properly restored your gun should easily be worth $6,000 - $8,000. I recently sold a restored DHE Grade (one grade lower than your gun) for $5,000. Restoration costs for your gun should be between $1,200 and $2,000 IMHO. I would not consider selling your gun (if in fact you are even considering it), at least until you get the research letter, as it may show something that would enhance the value.

Best Regards, George

[Richard Flanders]

Lordy! If that gun could just talk, eh?! Looks like a 7/16" bolt head coming out of the middle of the floor plate. Stay with us Dee. I'm sure folks will be very curious as to what gets done to this one. It looks like it was used as a halibut gun on a charter boat in southern Alaska! I bet that gun has taken a lot of birds...

[Dean Romig]

Restoration costs for your gun should be between $1,200 and $2,000 IMHO.

Okay, it's my turn to humbly disagree with George. (no offense intended George) In my opinion the surface pitts on the barrels are nearly irrepairable and I believe it will be closer to $4K to bring this fine Parker back to what it originally looked like when it left Meriden, CT. and we still don't know what the bores look like or the internal 'action' parts either.

I'm not saying that it isn't worth it to try to restore this gun but considering the expense... it's entirely up to Dee what she does with it.
Personally, I think I would do what my budget allowed but only considering the fact that it is a "Family Heirloom".

[Bill Murphy]

Richard, I missed the hex head. However, I think it's a 3/8" bolt head. I hope it isn't a serious defect. How can we estimate a repair when we don't know if it has a stock, the replacement of which could approach $2500. Dee, let me know if you got my PM. Don't worry, Francis, I'm not trying to buy the gun. That is an inside joke, Dee, about a guy who would accuse you of soliciting if you didn't wear a parka in July.

[Dean Romig]

The 'Book' may list it as a capped pistol grip but in the picture Dee's Grandfather is holding a gun with a straight grip.

[Dee Durham]

I could very well be wrong about the gun in the picture. I just found it with the gun and I assumed it to be the same. Here are more pics that I took when I got home today. I have it out, so if I need to take more, just give me direction of what you are looking for and I will do my best.

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[Dee Durham]

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[Steve Huffman]

Oh my !

[Steve Huffman]

I guess I am lost for words

[Dean Romig]

Dee.... Dear Dee, your Great Grandfather's Parker must have been a prize posession to him but after viewing the rest of your pictures I must confess that it would be best to simply hang it on the wall next to a picture of him with a little plaque stating "Great Granddaddy's once-valuable Parker".... Sorry :violin:

[Dee Durham]

That's what I'm gathering. I just looked at Mr.Turnbull's website. There he has a restored gun just like mine, and mine has wood pieces missing that were replaced with some kind of metal plate :( I'm slowly getting discouraged here, but I'm a Durham and guess us Durham's put that Parker through hell and back...lol.

[Steve Huffman]

Dee was there ever a house fire ? Stock looks as if it was close to alot of heat, might have something to do with the condition of the barrels.

[Dee Durham]

I can't honestly say......there is no telling what this gun went through

[Steve Huffman]

Alot !

[Robert Delk]

I'll go on record saying that you can't really judge the condition of the metal until you have the gun in hand. Photos often give more depth to pitting than actually exists.I have been through this many times as a buyer and seller of old tools,cars,guns and lots of other objects with metal parts. Hoping for the best for you as far as the metal goes.

[Dee Durham]

Hahahahahaha........I can't dispute that at all!!!!! I know my family lived by very minimal means by word of my grandpa. I can only think that maybe repairs were unaffordable to my great grandfather when repairs were needed and that may be part of the reason why the gun is in the shape that it is in.

[Steve Huffman]

Ok guys! We have over 400 members and I think there was about 400 plus of this gun made if the bores are shootable I have the first $20.00 to donate for the restoration of this gun

[Dee Durham]

Ok guys! We have over 400 members and I think there was about 400 plus of this gun made if the bores are shootable I have the first $20.00 to donate for the restoration of this gun

That is very kind of you to be willing to do that! I'm now at a loss for words myself, but there is no way I could accept your gracious gesture. That is too much for anyone to do. It is what it is, and I am grateful to just have the insight and knowledge of this fine gun now. Everyone here has been such a great help, just know I appreciate each and every one of you.:bowdown:

[Frank Cronin]

Dee, don’t be discouraged. I think you are very lucky person. There was a reason why only you found your great grandfather’s Parker under the bed… because he wanted you to have it. In the short time that you have had this in your possession, this once valuable Parker is getting the attention it deserves by you posting questions on the PGCA forum and fellow PGCA members giving valuable advice on how you can possibly restore your great granddaddy’s favorite Parker Gun. Whatever your final decision may be if it fiscally makes sense for you to restore or not, I’m sure he is smiling in heaven right now.

[George Lander]

Great advice from Frank! Dee, get the letter and then have a professional eyeball your gun. I recently has Jim Kelly restore a 4 gauge E.M. Reilly SxS that was in horrible shape.
(It got rained on in it's case for close to 100 years) If you had seen it before You wouldn't believe that it was the same gun. You will have to pay for the shipping if you send it to Jim or to another restoration expert, but his estimate won't cost you anything.
You don't have to use an FFL Dealer to ship your gun to a licensed gunsmith for repair. I ship my guns by Fed Ex Ground. It should cost you @ $30 each way if you choose to do so. Whether you choose to restore or not, please keep your Great Grandfather's gun in the family. JMHO

Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Dee, don’t be discouraged. I think you are very lucky person. There was a reason why only you found your great grandfather’s Parker under the bed… because he wanted you to have it. In the short time that you have had this in your possession, this once valuable Parker is getting the attention it deserves by you posting questions on the PGCA forum and fellow PGCA members giving valuable advice on how you can possibly restore your great granddaddy’s favorite Parker Gun. Whatever your final decision may be if it fiscally makes sense for you to restore or not, I’m sure he is smiling in heaven right now.

I have to agree with you 100%. I had no idea what I had until today. I took everything home, put all of the guns, 12 in fact, in the gun safe and left them there until this past weekend. Losing all 3 family members so close together, I just didn't have the time nor mental capacity to bother. I love researching my family background and coming across this site and it's members just set it in stone for me that all too familiar quote "everything happens for a reason." I can only imagine the things he did with this gun, how he used it for recreation or even to put food on the table to feed his family....whatever the case, I'm PROUD and ecstatic just at the thought of holding the gun he once held. Grateful and blessed can only sum it up.

[Bill Murphy]

Dee, I have the same comment about this fine gun as did another poster. "Oh my". On another note, don't do anything to this gun yet. We are not quite sure whether this may be a piece of Texas folk art that should be preserved as is. Truly, we have not seen anything quite like this great gun.

[Bill Murphy]

Dee, is there a foregrip that goes ahead of the action and clamps to the bottom of the barrels? If so, we need pictures of that part. We also would like to know how long the barrels are from front to back so we can determine whether the barrels have been cut.

[Dee Durham]

No worries there Bill.....it would take a lot of budgeting for me to do something with this gun right now. So, I will keep it tucked safely away back in the gun safe.

[Dee Durham]

Dee, is there a foregrip that goes ahead of the action and clamps to the bottom of the barrels? If so, we need pictures of that part. We also would like to know how long the barrels are from front to back so we can determine whether the barrels have been cut.

Yes, I've attached pictures of what I think you are talking about and the barrels are 28 inches.

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[Steve Huffman]

:crying::crying:

[Bruce Day]

I'm reminded of a west Texas rancher who hauled hay bales and calves in the back seat of the Cadillac for many years.

The gun has been rode a bit hard.

[Dee Durham]

I'm reminded of a west Texas rancher who hauled hay bales and calves in the back seat of the Cadillac for many years.

The gun has been rode a bit hard.

I know the gun is in very bad shape, but it is what it is. I'm thankful to have came across it, researched it, and know what I know now thanks to all of you. Regardless of what condition it is in or the value, it was my great grandfather's and again I am proud to hold it in my hands today.

[David Dwyer]

Dee ,I must disagree with Bill as to the value of the gun if it was in fine condition. I collect C grades and searched for a nice 16ga for several years and finally paid $20K+. During that time I saw a high condition one sell for $40K.
Turnbull has,had?, a completely restored one for sale for $35K,but it has been for sale for years. If it was restored by Brad Bachelder, I would guess a value of $15K-$18K. JMHO
David

[Bill Murphy]

I agree. A nice C grade 16 can have values in multiples of the 8 to 12 that I mentioned. Let's say 8 to 40K, although I would have to see that 40 gun that the poster described to believe the price. The good news is that there are no surprises in the picture of the forend. It is all there and matches the rest of the gun. The Turnbull price is bogus. Doug is a friend, but the price on that gun is off the scale. He doesn't expect to sell it for that price. Also, Dee, don't send the gun to Doug Turnbull. He will send you an estimate that you will find unfriendly. Some day he may restore that gun, but for someone else, not you. I am not criticizing him, he has done wonderful favors for me.

[Bruce Day]

I agree with David. I collect C's and have a handful of 12's and small bores, including a couple 16ga's. A nice CHE 16 ga just sold for $11,500 at a well known and watched public auction. This gun, if in good condition, would be in the range of the recent sale and what David mentioned.

The gun, as you know, has not been treated well. I believe a small bore C is always worth carefully looking at with an eye toward bringing back to presentability. This gun is going to take a lot of careful and skilled work, and how far it goes is always up to the owner. Pits in metal can be TIG welded and smoothed so that they are indistinguishable. Wood can be repaired or in extreme cases replaced. The bolts are not right but damage to the screw holes can probably be repaired by a machinist, new screws made, timed and installed.

I understand the sentimentality of your grandfather's gun. On my grandfather's gun, I had to steam out lots of dents, gouges and barbwire grooves, rechecker the forend, reblue the barrels and replace action springs. It's still the old gun I usually grab and go with. Many of us have ancestral guns that we treasure.

[Bill Murphy]

Bruce, thank you for bringing Dee back off of the 35K to 40K cloud. Dee, even though I admitted that there are guns that are out there at high prices, Bruce stated correctly that normal C grade 16s in average original condition normally sell for the 8K to 12K that I originally stated. Guns returned from abused condition sell for less. I'm sure the "C Grade" poster has good intentions, but he is not telling the whole story. I know these guys and they are not trying to steal your gun, or even buy it, but you have to separate the wheat from the chaff in value. We're going to get you where you want to go. Don't give up on my comment about "Texas Folk Art". That may be the best solution for you and future owners of this gun. Personally, I am a folk art aficionado and would be much more interested in returning your gun to working condition without touching its evidence of use and abuse. A shiny new finish on this gun would be like a goose turd on a collard leaf.

[Dee Durham]

Rest assured I have never once stepped onto any "price cloud" so to speak. I may be young, but I am aware that there are numerous factors that come into play concerning old collectibles and antiques. My mindset per the dollar figures go to the extent of commenting WOW! and a simple gaping mouth in awe, not the usual "let me run out and sell this thing pronto" kind of thing. Yesterday before I knew anything about this gun, It didn't own a pricetag, and today with what I do know, it still doesn't own a pricetag. I'm soaking every bit of advice and information I have been given in and letting it stew.

[Dean Romig]

...or the Mona Lisa on black velvet.

[Bruce Day]

...or the Mona Lisa on black velvet.


Hey, hey hey. Watch it! I'll have you know that one of my prized possessions was a hand painted Elvis on black velvet painted in the shrine of fine art Juarez, Mexico. My oldest son is a higher official in D.C. now and he has the painting in his home office.

So I hope your comment about the Mona Lisa was meant with all possible esteem.

P.S. I'm not trying to buy any more guns. I'm into high end art now, and hand painted black velvet is getting rare.

[Dee Durham]

I just wanted to share a few photo's of my Great-Grandpa (George Marion Durham) and my Grandpa (Marion Andrew Durham), so everyone here can put a face with the users of this gun. The first 3 are of Great-Grandpa and last 2are of Grandpa:

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[Bruce Day]

So were they getting in the car to go see Bob Wills?

[Dee Durham]

Hahaha! I honestly have no idea! :)

[Russ Jackson]

Bruce; Almost guaranteed ,if you love Parker guns ,you have to love Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys !

[Dean Romig]

Great old family pictures Dee - what a treasure!

Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys was about the best band ever!!

[Dee Durham]

Thank you! I have a few more, but didn't want to overload the site with non Parker related photos. Some with old cars and trucks and the house my Great Grandpa built on the farm. Pretty interesting.......

[Harry Collins]

Dee,

I must say a C grade Parker is something to brag about. There is a gunsmith in Kerrville, Texas named Kirk Merrington. I have not had work done by him, but a friend of mine has. What I've seen is very impressive. On the PGCA home page you will find him on our "Links". Brad Bachelder has done work for me. What he did was excelent, priced fairly and the turn around was prompt. I am sorry for your loss and wish you all the best in life. Please keep us in mind if and when you do anything with this treasured old Parker.

Kindest, Harry

[Dean Romig]

We've got nothing better to do.... go ahead and post the old cars and trucks and the house.

[Dee Durham]

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[Russ Jackson]

Hello Dee ; I haven't commented on your gun ,I have just been following along ! I think it would be great to have an old Family Parker , I do have my Grand Fathers guns although they aren't Parker guns ,I really enjoy just owning them and thinking of my " Pap sitting along the old fence row waiting for that old Buck to come along ! Whatever you decide to do with the gun ,take your time , should you decide to sell it , ,it is gone and part of your Family History goes along with it ! All the best in your decision ! Russ

[Dee Durham]

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[Dee Durham]

Russ, I agree! I've found myself sitting there thinking about similar things, and wonder what my Great Grandad is thinking when he is looking at me holding his gun and admiring it and in a perfect world possibly shooting it myself. I also inherited sever other guns, some pistols from a Colt .45 1911 down to a Colt .25 1908...an American Gun Co. shotgun and the rest are various rifles. I normally deer hunt with a 22-250, but since inheriting all of these, I will try my hand at my Dad's Marlin 30-30 this next deer season. And while I sit in my stand waiting for that big buck to find himself in my sights, I'll be able to pass the time thinking about how my dad would sit with the same rifle and wait for the big one.

[Bruce Day]

What part of the Lone Star state? I have friends in Lewisville and Childress, used to do business in Plainview, flew jets out of Abilene, temporary duty at Carswell AFB in Fort Worth, San Antonio and Biggs by El Paso, hunted around Shamrock and Wheeler, cousins lived in Borger.

The photos look like west Texas but not enough dust.

[Dee Durham]

I am in the DFW area, but we are from Canton, Tx. I have found old war documents of my Grandpa's listing Deport, Detroit, Lamar county, Red River county, and Manchester, TX

[Bruce Day]

Ahhh, east Texas. That's why I don't see any dust storms in the photos.

For years, there was a famous Parker dealer in Terrell TX, Herschel Chadick. Tom Chapman was a great gunsmith and was with Herschel. Tom is mostly retired now I think, and lives maybe 20 n of Terrell. Tom was very good with Parkers. If a person could get Tom to work on a gun.......

Or as mentioned, Merrington out west in Kerrville is good. Pretty in the spring out there. Old Air Force buddy of mine has a little old family ranch of 8,000 acres out at Frederick that he runs a few head of cattle and collects oil royalties.

[Dee Durham]

That would be nice wouldn't it?! My nephews live near Terrell....maybe they've heard of him....hmmmmmm

[Tom Carter]

Dee, I missed kids heads sticking out from under the porch. Tom

[Bruce Day]

The old Chadick number is 972 563 7577. They lived on Ninth Street in town and on weekends went out to his ranch east a little ways. If Mrs Chadick answers, she might have Tom's number if he still works at all.

Whatever you do, don't sell the gun to somebody from back east. They get all the good guns back there and leave us with nothing out here.

[Dee Durham]

Dee, I missed kids heads sticking out from under the porch. Tom

That would have been the perfect shot huh? But only if Grandpa was holding the Parker in his hand along with it (a clear picture of course) :)

[Dean Romig]

Dee, some of those other guns might have some significant value - the 1911 Colt for one. If in good condition and the right range of years and ser. No. could be valuable.

[Dee Durham]

I can assure you that it is in PRISTINE condition. I took it to the gun range and shot it, and must say it shoots very nice!

[Gary Carmichael Sr]

Bruce now you know all the good guns don't end up east of the big M I recall a nice 16 C grade Bernard that resides in KC

[Marc Retallack]

Dee

Sorry for your loss of so many loved ones in such a short span of time.

Would there be any Millers in your family line? Looking at the pictures of your Great Grandfather, I thought I was looking at my uncle Ammon.

Cheers
Marcus

[Dee Durham]

Dee

Sorry for your loss of so many loved ones in such a short span of time.

Would there be any Millers in your family line? Looking at the pictures of your Great Grandfather, I thought I was looking at my uncle Ammon.

Cheers
Marcus

Thank you for your condolences....I do not have any Millers in my family. It is all Durham, Grimmet, Jones, and Head. :)

[calvin humburg]

Hi Dee,
I think the gun is cool just like it is. The skins he had looked like maybe coons muskrat hard to tell the way they r hanging. best ch sorry for your loss as well. The ol fellow was the real deal, a hunter trapper who did it to put food on the table. Unlike us who just do it 4 fun.

[George Lander]

The old Chadick number is 972 563 7577. They lived on Ninth Street in town and on weekends went out to his ranch east a little ways. If Mrs Chadick answers, she might have Tom's number if he still works at all.

Whatever you do, don't sell the gun to somebody from back east. They get all the good guns back there and leave us with nothing out here.

Bruce: Do you know if Herschel is still living? I still see his ads in Shotgun News. Is he still in the old bank building in downtown Terrell? I was there years ago and tried to buy a Parker once owned by Jim Corbett (so marked on the barrels)

Best Regards, George

[Richard Flanders]

Dee, do you have any idea if your grandfather bought this gun new? That was a pretty expensive gun for the day. I can't imagine where it sat to get in the condition it is now. I inherited my mothers 20ga Parker that is at about the top of my list of prized possessions. That little 1908 Colt .25 is a nice gun. We have one in our family. They're worth quite a lot actually.

[Dee Durham]

I really don't have much background on this gun. When everything happened, I just packed everything and brought it home. I just recently started going through things, and that is when I found the name on the Parker and looked it up. I'm sorry I don't have many facts for you :(

[calvin humburg]

I for the life of me can't see the pictures of the other guns? confused again yup ch

[Dee Durham]

I for the life of me can't see the pictures of the other guns? confused again yup ch

I'd be more than happy to post pics of the other guns, but again I didn't want to be posting pictures of unrelated Parker items and upset anyone. I'm new to this kind of thing and didn't want to overstep. :)

[David Dwyer]

Dee
Please go ahead and post the pictures. There are a lot of guys on this site that have interest and knowledge of guns other than Parkers
David

[Dee Durham]

The other rifles and shotgun I will have to take pictures of when I get home. Thanks again to everyone here for your expertise, knowledge and overall support. I appreciate each and every one of you!
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[George Lander]

Hello Dee: The first picture if of a Colt Model 1911 A-1 Government Model made in the 1970's but non-military issue, It looks to be in very nice shape and is valued at $700 - $1,000. The second is what's called a "Baby Browning" caliber .25 auto made by Fabrique Nationale of Liege, Belgium and shoud be valued at $250 - $300.

Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Thank you for the information! The condition is great compared to my Great Grandpa's Parker..lol. My dad was obsessive about keeping his guns immaculate, so I'm thankful for that. I missed chatting with everyone today....the forum has been quiet. Must say you guys gave me purpose and excitement for the last few days.....thanks guys!

[Thomas L. Benson Sr.]

Dee: Thank you for the very interesting pictures of your family and the Parker and other guns. I'm not sure but this thread has lasted longer than other ones i believe. It could be a record so we shouldn't stop now. thanks again. Have A Great Day. Thomas L. Benson Sr.

[Steve Huffman]

That BEAUTIFUL SMILE keeps US going back for more ! :) Hey I still think we should restore that gun.

[Dee Durham]

Ok......now I'm blushing :) I would LOVE nothing more than to restore it and bring it back to life, but right now my budget with handling 3 estates, lawyer, wills, and all others fees associated with it (multiplied by 3) it will just have to wait. I'm just going to keep it put away in my gun safe and admire it every once in a while until all this calms down a little bit. I cant wait for the rush of maybe one day taking it out and shooting that old Parker and experience what my elders did. That will be a high no one could replace!

[Dee Durham]

I just spoke with Mr. Chadick and I must say....what a wonderful person to talk to!

That being said, he said per the description of the damage and age, it is hard to guage, but a general estimate of restoration will be $3000-$5000 and that is playing with many factors. He asked for me to bring it to him when I could and he would look at it as well as get his guy to look at repairing the stock.

I wanted to say thank you again to everyone who has commented, given advice, and talked me through this wonderful experience. All of you are a true blessing and please know that I appreciate each and every one of you!:bigbye:

[Dean Romig]

Dee, whatever you plan to do with your Parker, remember above anything else - it is a piece of family history - an heirloom that you should treasure.

Good Luck and may God bless you.

[Dee Durham]

I'm thinking at this point....have someone build me a beautiful shadowbox and hang it on my wall for everyone to see as they walk into my home next to a picture of Great Grandpa Durham. But I'm not gonna lie....it would be one heck of a rush to restore it and be able to shoot that old Parker just as he did. One day maybe, but for now I will just look at it and cherish it.

[Frank Cronin]

Dee,

Thanks for sharing all of the old pictures you have posted. Glad to hear the conversation with Mr. Chadick went well with you too. Be sure to come back to tell us how you made out and what it said on the Parker Research letter when you get it back from Mark Conrad. It may have interesting information where and when your great grampa bought the Parker so you can add to your current family research you are already doing. In addition, it would look nice in a frame next to your great grandfather's picture and Parker Gun.

[Dee Durham]

You are very welcome and I definately will keep all of ya'll posted on my Parker adventure! As soon as the letter comes in, I will update everyone. :)

[Steve Huffman]

:corn: No letter yet ?What happened to ya ?:corn:

[Bill Murphy]

Dee, I'm sure no one would object if you posted some of the information you have already obtained on the great little gun. By the way, the shadowbox idea is a great one if you are going to keep the gun.

[Dee Durham]

Sorry I haven't updated you guys in a bit....sadly my mother passed away March 9th and I have been a bit overwhelmed lately. I sent off for my letter this past Monday, so hopefully I will have something for you soon. Again, sorry for the delay in updating, and thank you to everyone for your continued interest in my old Parker.

[George Lander]

Dee: Sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. We will keep you and her in our prayers, It's hard, I know, but time and God have a way of healing broken hearts. I sincerely hope that you recieve some great news in your research letter.

Best Regards, George

[Dean Romig]

Dee, I'm so sorry to learn of your mother's passing. Life kicks hard sometimes. I know you'll never get over it but in time you'll get through it. May God bless you and comfort you.

[Dee Durham]

Thank you all so very much for your condolences. Its been a very difficult year for me losing both of my grandparents and Dad last year and now mom. With gods grace I will get through.

[calvin humburg]

Dee, If you ever want to talk about any shooting or pistols you are shooting I don't think anybody would care. Got me some Glaser PowRball 380 for my LCP hope they feed smooth there supposed to got a hollow point filled with a plastic ball. You must feel mighty lonely since your parents passed read your Bible helps me. ch

[Dee Durham]

It is definitely lonely and scary all in one. I'm only 34 and confused as to how to come to terms with losing my parents so early. Time will make it managable just not easier I guess

[Marc Retallack]

I'm sorry to learn of yet another loss for you Dee. If it's any help, you're not alone. I lost my father and one of my favorite uncles within 3 months of each other last year. At 36, I thought I had more time with them as well. Not long after my father's passing, I adopted a 4 yr old black lab. He was probably the best therapy I could have asked for. I'm certain you're in many prayers this evening.

Marcus

[Dee Durham]

You know.....I've been contemplating getting myself and my girls a puppy to keep us busy and redirect our love to a faithful companion. Just haven't been able to settle on what to look for. But of course my thoughts are all over the board right now. I've thought of a Bassett Hound all the way to a German Shepherd lol. I did come across a Bloodhound rescue here locally but not sure of the breed and care for them. I will keep looking and know when the time is right, it'll happen. I appreciate all of the words of encouragement and sympathy. You guys are the best!

[Dee Durham]

On a more upbeat note.......I just got a new S&W 9mm and a Taurus 45. Once everything calms down a bit, I'm looking forward to going to the range and getting a little bit of "gun therapy" in. Also, next weekend I will be going turkey hunting for the first time, so I'm really looking forward to it. Any tips and tricks you guys can give to the new kid?

[Dean Romig]

First off, let me suggest a Lab as a great family dog - they're a lot of fun and love kids... and they can be really good pheasant flushers and retrievers.

I'd recommend you get your first turkey advice from the people you hunt with but always take a head shot on them. Body shots are often crippling shots on turkeys.

[Dee Durham]

I've thought about getting a lab, but I don't know the first thing about training it for hunting. That and I've never pheasant hunted before either. I love the outdoors and shooting, so once everything calms down, I think I am going to try my hand at just about every kind of hunting I can think of. I know for me, deer hunting is very relaxing and calming so I look forward to trying new things and occupying my time.

[Dean Romig]

Even if you never use a dog for hunting a Lab is still a perfect family dog.

[Francis Morin]

Firstly, my sympathies on the losses of your dear family members. Time may not always heal the wounds of such a loss- I can still close my eyes and picture my best two buddies from HS- both are buried in Arlington and their names are on the Black Wall in DC. I was one of the lucky ones-

I am an avid waterfowler, tried turkey hunting last April with a private land senior license here in MI-and got "beginner's luck" took a Jake with a head shot at 35 paces mid-morning 19th of April 2010. He and two hens walked right up to my "hide" and I used my tight choked 12 LC Smith 32" F&F- No. 6 paper Rem express in both tubes- he never knew what hit him-- here are some reasons why I 'got lucky" at least, IMO-if they help you, well enuf!

(1) I have been waterfowling and shooting woodchucks, crows and pigeons on that private farm for 25 years, know every square inch of the land.
(2) I had scouted for several days, when scoping the fields for woodchucks, and had seen turkeys in a going to water pattern from the picked corn fields and the hard woods- remember, oaks mean- deer, turkeys, squirrels and wood ducks!
I got their early and was in full camo- like I use for crow shooting- the old sniper's mantra- No rattle, No shine- also-- "every deer thinks a hunter not moving is a stump-- every turkey thinks every stump in the woods is a hidden hunter- their eyesight and depth perception/sense of motion is akin to Superman's X-ray vision-- have your shotgun positioned where you expect the bird to come from, less motion, better- and remove any sling when you get to your hide-out, so it won't catch in the brush at a critical moment of truth.
(3) pattern your gun and know it like a soldier knows his rifle- if the safety catch clicks, get that silenced before you go out. If you shoot a choke tubed gun, make sure the choke of your choice is solidly in place in the muzzle-
(4) If you don't know how to call- Don't- I call very little for waterfowl, none at all for turkeys- I hunt like a sniper- 100% concealment, 100% confidence in my choice of weapon and knowlege of its killing range and patterning potential-

Lastly, I am also an avid pistolman- mainly Colts- both wheelies and the great 1911-A-1 .45 ACP. I have a "Statie" for a close neighbor, so I get to shoot on their qual course several times a year by invite-:bigbye::cool:

[Dee Durham]

Fantastic advice!!! I will take it, use and see what happens :) Thank you!

[George Lander]

Dee: A lab is a great choice. They are very affectionate and smart. A Golden Retreiver is also a great choice. Try to get a rescue dog from a shelter. Too many great dogs are put under for the lack of enough folks to adopt them.

Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Dee: A lab is a great choice. They are very affectionate and smart. A Golden Retreiver is also a great choice. Try to get a rescue dog from a shelter. Too many great dogs are put under for the lack of enough folks to adopt them.

Best Regards, George

I agree, I wouldn't go anywhere else but the shelter ;)

[Steve Huffman]

You know Guys ! There is something about this thread that has me thinking it may brake a record in Views Over 4000 -Two dollars a view = a restored gun. I still will put up the first 20.:whistle:

[calvin humburg]

I'll put some in the pot.

[Francis Morin]

I'll put some in the pot.- I'll also put in a nice crisp Monticello--this little lady from the great Lone Star State (Sam Houston, Jim Bowie, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson amongst other good things) has most certainly expressed her appreciation for the help and advice from the "PGCA brotherhood" on her family VH Parker. Just another reason, IMO, why this is such a great Assn.- We have so many well informed "Parkerists and Parkeristas" willing to share with new members, and that spirit will keep the PGCA membership growing.:bigbye:

[Forrest Smith]

Any kin to George Durham of the Texas Rangers?

[Dee Durham]

Any kin to George Durham of the Texas Rangers?

My great grandpa's name is George Durham...hmmmm :shock:

[Dee Durham]

I must say you guys are absolutely amazing!!!! Thank you very kindly for the offers to help, but I could never accept such a gracious gesture. I have a meeting with Mr. Chadick at 2pm on Sunday to see what I am looking at as far as the restoration goes. We'll see and I will give you an update as the price he gives on the restoration.

[calvin humburg]

You watch the movie Open Range theres a line from it shes going to give Kevin a locket and he says he can't she says something like you don't have any choice when its a gift. Darn good movie should of had a Parker in the line up. ch oh thoes silly pointers are great family dogs also sept for thoes little white hairs:eek:

[Dee Durham]

Hahaha! You guys are too much! I'm truly humbled by this entire experience! God bless you all

[Bobby Cash]

Brik at 5 weeks. English Fox Red Lab.
2nd pic at 5 months and 50 pounds. Room in his skin for about another 40.
3rd pic at 7 months and 70 pounds. Greatest dog in the world.

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk136/2low8s/BRIK4weeks.jpg

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk136/2low8s/020.jpg

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk136/2low8s/037.jpg

3 pics = $6 Thanks for looking.

[Dee Durham]

ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE!!!!!!! Thanks for sharing these.

[Jerry Andrews]

I must say this post has set a record for the 2nd most pages ever issued, nudged out only by the Dead Sea Scroll! Jerry

[Dee Durham]

Is that good or bad?

[todd allen]

This has been a very good thread. Thanks all who posted.

[Jerry Andrews]

That's a good thing Dee, it only shows the integrity of this board and the members. Anyone posting such a fantastic gun here would get good sound advice as guns like yours are cherished by all. The fact that it's a family gun is truly special. Keep writing, we enjoy the posts! No one here cares whether or not you know anything about double guns, it's the common link of Parker guns or any old guns that bonds many of us. I know I for one would really like to see what happens with this gun. Please keep us posted, Jerry

[Dee Durham]

I'm very grateful to all of you. Every single one of you have given me some great advice. I appreciate all of the information and advice through here, where otherwise with me being ignorant to what I had and I could have possibly been taken advantage of by someone. Y'all have educated me enough to know what to do and not to do and I'm thankful and blessed to have stumbled across this site and have everyone accept me and teach me about this old Parker. Thank you cannot begin to scratch the surface for you guys. My hats off to you...please take a bow......:bowdown:

[Robert Delk]

I'm of the mind that if the bores are salvagable that someone ought to step up and bring it back from the dead.Pictures often make the pitting look worse than it is and without someone looking at in in the flesh ,that does restoration, I would not be too quick to give it up as a lost cause.I'm thinking of the Optimus Lefever that sold last year that was given up for dead by many but was brought back to life.

[Dee Durham]

I am going to have it looked at this weekend to see what kind of mess I am getting myself into

[Robert Delk]

Just make sure that whoever looks at it is someone that actually does restoration and is someone that is on the "approved" list. Lots of guys out there that say they are "restoration experts" but couldn't correctly restore a hardware store clunker.Don't be shy about asking for references.Gun does not have to be made to look like new to be given a new lease on life and to seriously enhance the value.

[Dee Durham]

It's Herschel Chadick in Terrell. He was referred to me by Bruce Day from here. I've heard very good things about him and he is closest to where I live. If someone from this site holds him in high regards, I will give him a go.

[Robert Delk]

Mr. Chadick has certainly seen his share of Parkers but is not a gunsmith and I would take that into account when talking with him. He would certainly know of the men to talk to when it comes to doing any work on your gun.Just fixing the screws and cleaning the gun would add a lot and getting an evaluation of the condition with an eye to putting it back into shooting condition would be my first consideration.

[Dee Durham]

I cannot for the life of me remember his gunsmith's name, but he is going to have him look at it as well. He is retired, but Mr. Chadick said he makes special exceptions for special guns. And my gun may be the case.....so I guess I'll see and take any advice that can be offered.

[Dave Suponski]

Dee, How close are you to Kerrville,Tx? Kirk Merrington is the best barrel man around and he hails from there. I have spent many an hour on the phone with him and he is a true gentleman. No one better to get an honest opinion from.

[Dee Durham]

Dee, How close are you to Kerrville,Tx? Kirk Merrington is the best barrel man around and he hails from there. I have spent many an hour on the phone with him and he is a true gentleman. No one better to get an honest opinion from.

It shows to be a 5 hour drive from my place....too far for me :( Mr. Chadick's place is about an hour from me

[Robert Delk]

I would liken this gun to a stage 4 cancer patient and suggest that you get a second opinion before doing anything,or not doing anything.High end gunsmiths are like top end doctors and some are more willing,and able,to take on the "hopeless" cases.The gun is important and deserves a chance if any chance is at all viable.

[Dee Durham]

My visit with Mr Chadick is done. He said it definitely is a rare Parker (C grade with O frame). But will require a LOT of time to restore it...

[Eric Eis]

My visit with Mr Chadick is done. He said it definitely is a rare Parker (C grade with O frame). But will require a LOT of time to restore it...

What did he say needed to be done? This may be a second opinion idea.

[Francis Morin]

Old bit of Chinese wisdom- if you want to know the true value of something you own, get the opinion of three non-related men who have no interest in buying it. Mr. Chaddick is a very well established gun dealer in Terrel, TX and has a good reputation, as does Jack Puglisi, Steven Cobb and other too numerous to mention here. However, I would also discuss this situation with Jess Brliley and also with Danny Clark of Collectors Firearms- both are in the Houston area. Mr. Chaddick is 100% correct in that the CH(E) guns are scarce, and the smaller sized frames and gauges may well be one reason for the value of your family Parker. The DH(E) or grade 3 numerically was not all that much different in engraving or stock checkering than the more costly CH(E), and was a bit like the fabled "red-headed stepchild" between the very popular DH(E) and the grade 5 BHE Parker, so there were not all that many manufactured. The late Ed Muderlak points this out in his book on the Parker- The Old Reliable and has some fine details about his visits and chats with Herschel Chaddick in past years. If you haven't yet read his writings, you might like to do so. And you are 100% correct about Bruce Day- if he makes a recommendation to you about guns and gunning, his advice is as solid as the Rock of Gibraltar!:bigbye::bigbye::bigbye::bigbye:

[Dee Durham]

What did he say needed to be done? This may be a second opinion idea.

Said all of the etching needed to be redone, stock replaced, and barrels had pitting but is salvageable. :(

[George Lander]

Dee: You have some excellant advice from Francis, Robert, Bruce & Others. I know Herschel and he is a gun dealer of integrity but not a gunsmith. I would show your gun to three qualified Parker smiths and get their full evaluation as to cost and results. Three who do not "have a horse in the race". You have a gun that is well worth restoration and for the money spent the monetary value would enhanced several fold. If folks on this forum are willing to chip in & help, your "better angels" should prompt you to accept. Once a restorer is selected and a price established any of us could send our contributions directly to him. There is nothing demeaning by accepting a little help from your friends,

IMHO Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Ok, Here is the contents of my research letter:

"It was ordered by J. M. Parisot in Palmetto Home, MS on April 8, 1904 and shipped on July 27, 1904. According to Parker Bros. Order Book No. 62 it was a CHE hammerless, 16-gauge. It featured Titanic steel barrels with a length of 28 inches. Its stock configuration was a capped pistol grip. The chokes were patterned RH full (185 # 7 pellets in a 30” circle at 40 yards) and LH full (185 # 7 pellets in a 30” circle at 40 yards). According to Parker Bros. Stock Book No. 45, its specifications were: Length of Pull: 14”, Drop at Heel: 3 ¼”, Weight: 6 pounds and 10 ounces. The price was $150.00 plus $25.00 for ejectors.

According to Order Book No. 63, the gun was returned on August 19, 1904 by J. M. Parisot to repair ext rib and frame. There was no charge."

I wanted to again say thank you to everyone here for their advice and knowledge. I believe I am just going to keep this old Parker and display it proudly. The restoration will have to come later down the road when I can budget in a cost of that magnitude. I am forever grateful to each and every one of you for all that you've done. You may not think you've done much of anything but give advice, but you've done more than you know.

[Francis Morin]

I'll 'go out on a limb" here and state that the other PGCA members who responded to your thread here also appreciate your sharing the details of the history of your CHE 16 bore. I am also sure your Granddad (deceased) would be pleased that you are going to keep it as a family heirloom and keepsake.

I had a 16 gauge PH on the O frame with 26" uncut Twist barrels (grade 2) also made in about 1905 and I had it lettered. I am not a smaller gauge gunner, when I sold it having the letter authenticating it and the original factory barrel length was a plus in the sale transaction. I had shot it with the 2.5" RST 7/8 oz. loads, if I lived where there was both quail and dove hunting I would have kept it.

Your barrels being both full choke- not all that uncommon back in that era. Unless a specific pattern with a load was specified by the purchaser, Parker, L.C. Smith, possibly AH Fox- all tended to bore their barrels for full choke. This, in retrospect, IMO anyway, was a smart move, as later the owner could return the gun to the factory and have the chokes opened.
Unfortunately, there were some upland bird hunters with those fine older tighter choked Parkers who took a hacksaw to the muzzle area, in a mis-guided effort to provide more open shot patterns.

Again, IMO- if I were the fortunate owner of this CHE, I would have it restored (my choice is my friend Brad Bachelder in MI -about 25 miles from where I live)- I might have him open the choke on the right barrel, but leave the left one at full. I am 70 and not so "quick on the draw" and having a tighter patterning second barrel often stops a cripple or drops a wild flushing bird (if in fair range). The late Ray P. Holland had most of his upland double guns choked imp. cyl. right and full left.

Today's specialty shotshells (RST, Poly-Wad, Fiocchi, New Era, Hevi-Shot) have been a great bonus for those of us who treasure our days afield with a older fine vintage double, such as your CHE 16. Best wishes!!:bigbye:

[Bruce Day]

If folks would review the posts, they will see that I recommended Hershel Chaddick to look the gun over, because he has sound judgment about how to make a Parker look good, and his retired gunsmith Tom Chapman to do the work if Hershel could convince Tom to take the project on. I don't think there was anybody better than Tom, although there were some as good, but not many. I know there are guns out there today that are believed original yet were redone by Tom. Hershel and Tom are close to Dee and that was an important consideration. Hershel is himself mostly retired, but still buys and sells a few guns, and people still call him with requests for certain guns.

There is no doubt that this gun is in, to put it mildly, terrible condition. Yet, Dee says that Hershel says it is salvageable, and I would bank on that. "Bank" is the operable word, because its restoration will be long and costly to do right rather than cobble something together. If Dee does not have the money and interest, this may be a good gun to sell to someone who does, and who will probably be upside down in the gun by the time they are finished.

[Robert Delk]

Yeah, it 's in bad shape but we've all seen them brought back to useful life from dead.I would be of the mind that the gun should be "stablized" as soon as possible and if Ms.Durham would agree maybe this gun would be a good group project for the PGCA to take on. Document the restoration on video with narration to show what can be done by skilled and sympathetic restoration.Would make a good tutorial for the groups meetings.

[Robert Delk]

Not to put to fine a point to it,but we're all familiar with an artifact ,be it an old car,antique furniture or whatever,in the hands of someone that is unable to conserve it quickly and fate steps in and the artifact is lost through circumstances beyond anyone's control. I speak from bitter experience and the time to act is always "Right Now!" Money is almost always the issue in these things as restoration is expensive and in this case ,as Bruce said,the expense will be more than the gun is worth at the present time.Take the long view that 20-50 years down the road someone will thank you for taking the plunge.

[Dee Durham]

Althought the cost is too great for myself at this point in my life, I am not looking to sell it nor restore it to make money or a quick payday. Now, before my mother passed and I had mounting bills trying to help her with her hospital care then ultimately her funeral costs, I did in fact consider selling it because to me taking care of her was of most importance before anything. Somehow by God's grace I was able to pull myself together and take care of everything without having to go that route. I have the mindset that it is what it is and if/when I have the means and resources to restore it, I will but until then it will stay in my safe away from the elements and in worst case of never restoring it, I will display it proudly in my home and brag to my girls it's family history.

I value Mr. Chadick's opinion and am very well aware of his capabilities as well as that of his gunsmith Mr. Chapman. I, again, am grateful for the advice Mr. Chadick gave me, the conversation, and the quick history lesson on my Parker. He was very informative, and by all accounts a true gentleman. Thank you Bruce for your recommendation to him.

Please know, I am just happy that along this journey, I am glad to just have this adventure before me, grateful to the MANY new friends I have here, and am just all around blessed by everyone looking out for me here. I will take each step through this process gracefully and carefully. Who knows, one day I might be taking a picture of myself with this old Parker looking as beautiful as ever....only time will tell.

All in all...........I'm truly blessed by all of you, please know that :)

[Francis Morin]

I have a suggestion. Normally I would contact a BOD or Life member privately re; this thought, but as both this little Lady from the Lone Star State has "barred her soul" to us about her personal loss of family members and the value of this well-worn 16 bore CHE once owned by her Granddad (and having been favored by my own maternal Grandfather re: a few good guns which I treasure)--If both the BOD and Dee agree, and she is willing to turn over this Parker to the custody of a nearby trusted PGCA member (Bruce Day if he is willing, perhaps) have it on the display table at the Annual PGCA meeting or the Vintagers- with perhaps gunsmith restoration expert Doug Turnbull using it for a seminar on both careful dis-assembly, and evaluation of such an older heirloom for restoration to using/shooting condition in today's mileu. And going one step further, use some of the funds from the Silent Auction to help her underwrite the cost.

We all have seen some possible 'trolling posters" on the open sector of our Forum, and I have always been charry of some of the things I have read on any internet web site that concerns itself with good guns. But I believe this Lady, and I commend her wish to keep this valued Parker. So many of us here (and on the other fine gun websites/forums) have been fortunate in the breaks that life sometimes puts in front of us-so the possible sharing of that good fortune with a deserving person merits some thought, at least IMO!!:bigbye:

[Dee Durham]

You guys never cease to amaze me!!!! :bowdown: You're kind words and thoughtful gestures are truly a blessing. Thank you :clap:

[Steve Huffman]

I am still here and willing ! :)

[Bill Murphy]

I hope my information about the provenance of your gun and its early history was of interest and in congruence with the PGCA letter. I also hope that my suggestion to treat your gun as a piece of Texas and Louisiana history is of as much interest. Restored Parkers are a dime a dozen and are worth a dime on the ten dollar bill when offered for sale. Your gun is a wonderful example of Texas bird hunting history and should be kept as is. No matter what advice you get about rehashing your wonderful and rare bird gun, it is as good as it gets in its present condition. I, personally, will shed tears if this gun goes to the restorer. That's it for me. I tried my best.

[Francis Morin]

You guys never cease to amaze me!!!! :bowdown: You're kind words and thoughtful gestures are truly a blessing. Thank you :clap:-- If you ever get up to the Wolverine State, let me know and you can come with me to the gun range-if you like shootin' Colts- mostly 1878 SA Army "peacemakers", most of which my late father picked up while working on a dude ranch in Wyoming in the "dustbowl 30's" Unlike my maternal Grandad, who shot both Parkers and a hammer Purdey- all 12 bores, my Dad was an avid "pistolero" and also a deadly rifle shot. He got me hooked on woodchucks when I was about 10-I have both his two and only two shotguns- both older pre-War M12's (no doubles- most likely due to his heavy emphasis on rifle shooting I'd guess, in retrospect)-- I also have his 1939 MTWoodsman .22LR, his M70 SG in 30-06 he bought in 1939-1940- and his "house gun" a .38 Det. Special snubbie with hammer shroud. I like the Python in .357 full house loads, and the great 1911-A-1 Colt .45ACP for defense and target work--as Texan gun writer the late Bob Brister (Ace shotgunner) once wrote in his book: Moss, Mallards and Mules- about the words from his mentor Uncle Abner-"Man carryin' a big pistol most oftentimes not ever have to use it" perhaps Uncle Abner graduated from Teddy Roosevelt HS--

Anyway, IMO, the nature of our growth in the PGCA, our new increasing membership, the get-togethers and the great research done on Parkers by some very dedicated folks, all speaks to our success in what one might well call a "niche gun market"-- Many fine Parkers are sold or traded amongst PGCA members, and I applaud that- America's Finest Shotgun(s) should be in the hands of those who appreciate a top quality hand made well functioning shotgun from another time and era in American history. You might well say that we "keep the torch burning brightly" for futre generations, what the late sportsman and writer T. Nash Buckingham called "Our come-afters"--Best regards--:bigbye:

[John Dunkle]

I would like to take a moment (and hi-jack this thread for a bit ;) ) to Welcome on board our most recent and newest PGCA Member:

Dee Durham


In the truest sense of "paying it forward", another PGCA Member stepped forward to anonymously sponsor Dee in this organization. To that fine gentleman...

Well Done, Sir...!!!

To Dee - Welcome aboard!!! Mary is preparing your welcome package to the PGCA....

:cheers:

John

[Dee Durham]

:bowdown::bowdown::bowdown::bowdown::bowdown:

:clap: WOW! Just WOW! Whoever did this fine act of kindness....THANK YOU! That was very sweet, thoughful and generous of you! I really don't know what to else to say:shock: I appreciate you.

[Thomas L. Benson Sr.]

Dee: I hope you get this gun restored and would willing to contribute to that end. I don't know that much about why's and why not to restore a gun but have restored my share of auto's and was just trilled to death when done so could show them off and drive them. I have a parker that was restored by the Delgrego's and love it to death. Take it to the recommended restorers and get a price and lets get this show on the road. You can count me in for one Ben Franklin. Thomas L. Benson Sr.

[Thomas L. Benson Sr.]

Dee: I hope you get this gun restored and would willing to contribute to that end. I don't know that much about why's and why not to restore a gun but have restored my share of auto's and was just trilled to death when done so could show them off and drive them. I have a parker that was restored by the Delgrego's and love it to death. Take it to the recommended restorers and get a price and lets get this show on the road. You can count me in for one Ben Franklin. Thomas L. Benson Sr.

[Dee Durham]

Dee: I hope you get this gun restored and would willing to contribute to that end. I don't know that much about why's and why not to restore a gun but have restored my share of auto's and was just trilled to death when done so could show them off and drive them. I have a parker that was restored by the Delgrego's and love it to death. Take it to the recommended restorers and get a price and lets get this show on the road. You can count me in for one Ben Franklin. Thomas L. Benson Sr.

I really appreciate the offers to help from you and everyone else. I, like you, do not know about the why/why not to restore reasons either. When I originally posted here, I had not a clue of what I was holding in my hand, now that I do know what I have, I don't know what to do with it.....so right now I'm at the point of :banghead: LOL! I am genuinely grateful to each and everyone here and their willingness to help a complete stranger.

[william faulk]

Hi Dee,
The Texas SXS Club is having a shoot at the Dallas Gun Club on August 13.Good people,good targets,good lunch and lots of Parkers.Just show up,you will be welcome...Bill Faulk :smiley7:

[Dee Durham]

Why thank you! I just may have to do that. Keep me posted when it gets closer to that time so that I don't forget. If it's not happening in the next hour or even minute, I usually forget.

[Francis Morin]

I really appreciate the offers to help from you and everyone else. I, like you, do not know about the why/why not to restore reasons either. When I originally posted here, I had not a clue of what I was holding in my hand, now that I do know what I have, I don't know what to do with it.....so right now I'm at the point of :banghead: LOL! I am genuinely grateful to each and everyone here and their willingness to help a complete stranger.-- All the response to your posts and your genuine interest in learning about this fine older 16 CHE Parker that belonged to your late Grandfather-- I find myself in agreement with Bill M. here- i would leave it as is, have a good Parker gunsmith check it over before you shoot it with light loads (RST or other premium shells made for older guns)- and all the responses your initial thread have generated here are again proof of the spirit of PGCA and our rapid growth in new memberships each year. Enjoy, and I hope you can attend the TX clays event later on.:bigbye::bigbye:

[Dee Durham]

I wanted to share with everyone another shotgun that was with my great grandfather's other guns. I am going to have the gentleman that took this picture take some of my old parker, as is, and will post them when they are done. They will be a better quality picture than what I had taken previously and I can assure you they will show it's true beauty and character.

[Richard Flanders]

I like your computer-kick boxing comment. Reminded me of this pic I took after my computer told me, "You want to run format C? No. We don't do that any more".... I proved it wrong....

And Dee: I used to have an American Arms dbl gun just like your last picture above.

[calvin humburg]

Richard where did you get that rubber deal on your handle I'm always chewing up axe and sledge hammer handles. ch

[Richard Flanders]

The local true value hardware store carries them. They sure save a lot of handles. You can also just use a properly sized piece of heavy rubber hose.

[Dean Romig]

I eliminated the problem on my splitting maul by welding a 2" ID X 32" length of pipe in place of a wooden handle.

[charlie cleveland]

my dad took my brother and i out to the job site left us with uor dinner and a jug of water...our jobs were cutting up old car bodys with a axe...my brother was a real life character....he took that axe and said watch this he broke that axe handle clean out on the first lick...we sure did have a fine day of just goofing around for that was the only axe we hadfor work... at about 5.00 that evening our dad came to pick us up he asked us how our day went we told him fine exceptwe had broke the axe handle but we did not tell him till years later that johney had broke it out on purpose... our dad never said much on the way home ..the next morning he carried us back to the same job site.. out he came with the same axe we had broke the handle out of the evening before except it was wearing a brand new steel handle in it...my dad said boys if you break this handle i will put another one in just like it...he left and we went to work we tried breaking that handle out but never did..... charlie

[Dee Durham]

I just wanted to say hello to everyone here and let ya'll know that I still have my old Parker and we are still kicking here in Texas. Miss you guys!!!!

[Richard Flanders]

Good to see you're still out there. I hope you follow our forum sometimes and that you have been able to attend a shoot somewhere.... and that you don't live on the riverside in San Antonio right now!

[Dee Durham]

I'm a safe distance from San Antonio LOL... I live near DFW airport. I do still read the forums ever so often. I was just on today reminiscing on this thread and re-reading all of the wonderful comments, sentiments, and advice from everyone. It helps to renew my faith in people. I would still like to attend a shoot somewhere but haven't had the opportunity to as of yet and would like to take my old worn out Parker to one of the Parker meets so it can be seen

[Richard Flanders]

If you're ever in need of a group of folks who will treat you like long lost family - and who of us doesn't need that occasionally?? - just go to a shoot with a bunch of Parker folks. It will change your life.

[Dee Durham]

Absolutely, we all need that! And there is no doubt in my mind that I'd be treated like family! I already feel like that just being a part of the forum etc..... It's just getting to one of them. It would be nice to finally meet everyone!

[Russ Jackson]

Hello Dee ,Good to see you are still tagging along with us ! Hope all is well ! Russ

[Dee Durham]

Absolutely! All is going good here. I have a new addition to my family now since getting custody of my 3 yr old nephew. So needless to say my house has been very busy with a little one running around again. Takes a little getting used to since my girls are teenagers already. Lol

[Dennis V. Nix]

Dee,

If you will forgive my saying so it would seem you are still in a win win situation. You have a shotgun in your possession that belonged to your great grandfather. For most of us in the PGCA that means a lot. When you take it sometime to a Parker gathering you may be surprised to find it might be in better shape than you think. The bores may be better than you think on the inside. If nothing else someone who knows what they are doing and can give suggestions on making the outside of the gun look better even if just a wall hanger. It is still a family heirloom and that means a lot. It would mean even more to your children and their children.

Dennis

[Dee Durham]

It sure is a win win! I took it out of the gun safe today and was looking at it. Ran my fingers inside the barrel and it felt smooth but again I'm ignorant when it comes to what it does/doesn't need. I took a few more pictures of it while I had it out and took one without the plates that my great grandfather had screwed in to keep the stock together. I must say I was horrified at the sight and almost made me cry. Lol. I was heartbroken!

[Dee Durham]

With plate:

[Dee Durham]

Stock:

[Dee Durham]

Side:

[charlie cleveland]

dee leave the stock as your grandfather fixed it if your not planning on shooting it...grandpa fixed the stock and evadently shot it a while this way...now if your planning on shooting it replace the stock and keep the old one with the gun...i ve got old 8 ga thats fixed like your grandfather fixed it ive shot it about 50 times now...your gun is new compared to the ole 8 i have...forgot good to see you posting.... charlie

[Dee Durham]

Hi Charlie! Thank you, It feels good to chat again with everyone about this old Parker.... But I don't have any plans or funds for that matter to change anything with this gun. I was just taking pictures for reference for you guys and myself.

[Mills Morrison]

If old guns could talk . . . a very interesting gun, despite the condition

[Dee Durham]

I couldn't agree with you more! I'd love to hear the stories it would tell if it could

[George Lander]

Dee: It looks like you have the compleat stock. It could be properly repaired to be better than new for a lot less than a new stock would cost. It also looks a little off face which can also be fixed.IMHO

Best Regards, George

[Steve Huffman]

16,000 + views ! MY MY Beautiful guns and Beautiful oh well .

[Richard Flanders]

And those bolts in the floorplate! That gun has a story to tell.

[Dee Durham]

Here are more of the pictures that I took yesterday:corn:

[dwight pugh]

love the bolts...had to make do with what you had.

ddp

[Dee Durham]

Looks like it! There are several screws and bolts that are not stock. I still find myself in awe looking at it just thinking to myself "WOW!".....no words really, just wow!

[Dee Durham]

Last 3 pictures I have:

[Mills Morrison]

There is still some shine to the metal in that first picture. The gun has had a tough life but may have more life in it than you think

[Richard Flanders]

I bet it's got some shooting life left in it once you cleaned and tightened it up and put another bolt in the floorplate!

[Dean Romig]

Hi Dee! It's good to see you back on the forum. These are some pictures we haven't seen before and I'm in complete agreement with you.... WOW!!

Have you ever sent for a PGCA research letter on your Parker?

[Dennis V. Nix]

Dee,
I think you should look into having it restored or at least replace the screws and put it back into firing condition. That gun is just too beautiful under the rust and grime to let it sit around doing nothing. It needs to be put back to work. Good luck with whatever you decide. Please keep us informed.

Dennis

[Brian Stucker]

Love the bolts. Classic.

[Dee Durham]

Hi Dee! It's good to see you back on the forum. These are some pictures we haven't seen before and I'm in complete agreement with you.... WOW!!

Have you ever sent for a PGCA research letter on your Parker?

Yes sir I have...I will post a picture of it when I get into the office this morning for you guys. And I took these pictures this weekend while I had it out and just wanted to share it with everyone here. Seems every time I look at it, I see something different and intriguing so I started snapping photos.

It does still have some shine to it yes....just the lighting and my phone doesn't show it sometimes in the pictures. I've ran my finger around inside the barrel and to me it's as smooth as a baby butt but I have no idea what I'm looking for etc...lol

[Mills Morrison]

Dee,
I think you should look into having it restored or at least replace the screws and put it back into firing condition. That gun is just too beautiful under the rust and grime to let it sit around doing nothing. It needs to be put back to work. Good luck with whatever you decide. Please keep us informed.

Dennis



Second Dennis on that.

[Dee Durham]

Here's the letter:


March 27, 2011



DeAn Durham
521 Harmon Road
Hurst, TX 76053

Hello Ms. Durham:

Parker shotgun, serial number 126696, was ordered by J. M. Parisot in Palmetto Home, MS on April 8, 1904 and shipped on July 27, 1904. According to Parker Bros. Order Book No. 62 it was a CHE hammerless, 16-gauge. It featured Titanic steel barrels with a length of 28 inches. Its stock configuration was a capped pistol grip. The chokes were patterned RH full (185 # 7 pellets in a 30” circle at 40 yards) and LH full (185 # 7 pellets in a 30” circle at 40 yards). According to Parker Bros. Stock Book No. 45, its specifications were: Length of Pull: 14”, Drop at Heel: 3 ¼”, Weight: 6 pounds and 10 ounces. The price was $150.00 plus $25.00 for ejectors.

According to Order Book No. 63, the gun was returned on August 19, 1904 by J. M. Parisot to repair ext rib and frame. There was no charge.

Parker Bros., Remington Arms Company Inc. and others repaired and reconfigured guns as a major part of the gun trade. Over the years, this Parker may have undergone changes to suit its owners, either at the factory or other competent facility. Complete factory return and repair records do not exist therefore our research team cannot comment, report, or have any responsibility for work performed. It is important to note that those Parker records remaining are hand written and show considerable fading from their age. The research committee has done its best to interpret and report our findings in answer to this request and assumes no responsibility for the recorded accuracy or other work completed.

Sincerely,



Mark Conrad, Research Committee Chairman
The Parker Gun Collectors Association Inc.
P. O. Box 5772 Va. Beach, VA 23471-5772

[Dean Romig]

Thanks Dee.

[Dee Durham]

I agree with you guys concerning the restoration of this beautiful shotgun. However, the repair costs etc. exceed my budget as of right now so I will just keep it safe in the gun safe until I am able to do so.

[Jim DiSpagno]

Dee, Please check your PMs Thanks, Jim DiSpagno

[Dee Durham]

I had a friend who is a photographer come take some better photos :usa:

[Dee Durham]

More::)

[Wayne Johnson]

Well, I'm fairly new here, but I just wanted to say thanks to Dee for sharing her story and her family history with us.

That old gun has quite a story.

[Dee Durham]

Well, I'm fairly new here, but I just wanted to say thanks to Dee for sharing her story and her family history with us.

That old gun has quite a story.

Thank you Wayne! But I don't deserve the thanks...you and the Parker family do! Every single one of you have allowed me to open up and share something, that at the time and still is on some days, was a hard memory to share and open up about.

I am very proud of the cloth I was cut from. I love sharing the immense pride I have for the men and women in my family that instilled the values and respect passed on to me and my girls, the extreme gratitude to my great grandfather for being a hard working American with core values and my grandfather for his service in WWII and providing me my freedoms and showing me what a true man, marriage and family should be. I am grateful and blessed to have this Parker family to share my life and stories with. If I can keep their memories and their story alive....then they are truly never really gone. THANK YOU!

P.S. your bible verse was my dads favorite verse....thank you for sharing that today, it was much needed:)

[Brian Dudley]

Very interesting gun. And I would think that with some time and a little money, the gun could at least be brought back to operational condition. All the non original screws and bolts are something else. I would suspect that maybe some damage was done to the original threads in order to get hardware store bolts into the holes.
What a find though to come accross a High grade Parker with such history and use.
Though worn, I love the engraving on the gun!

[Dee Durham]

I don"t know if any of you have heard the song by Blake Shelton "Grandaddy's Gun" but it"s worth a listen. When I heard it, it make me think of everyone here and smile like a little girl again. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aNM_5u-Xaw

[Dean Romig]

That's a great little song Dee. I really like the sentiment in those words... even the part about the shot-up sign. Probably a lot of us older guys have done a little errant shooting at one time or other. Just wish I had done mine with my Granddaddy's gun.

[Dee Durham]

That's a great little song Dee. I really like the sentiment in those words... even the part about the shot-up sign. Probably a lot of us older guys have done a little errant shooting at one time or other. Just wish I had done mine with my Granddaddy's gun.

Hahahaha! When I heard it, I felt it was a fitting tune. Plenty of us can relate even if we didn't shoot our Granddaddy's gun. And although I've never met any of you, I get this grin picturing y'all running around being typical boys and being mischievous...

[Carl Erickson Jr]

Dee: You are lucky! You have inherited a top grade Parker! I have and treasure my grandfathers gun, a pedestrian Crescent.
As for what to do with it, I suggest that you have the gun repaired, that is made shootable. The stock, while it looks bad, is probably repairable so that the gun can be used. On the LC Smith collectors site there are pictures of stocks that have been repaired. While I an not a stock professional I have taken several shotguns in similar shape and made them decent looking shooters. My goto sporting clays gun is such a gun. As for the metal work and missing parts, I can see how they can be repaired without too much difficulty, including the ugly hex head cap screws, by a competent gunsmith.
Save your money get it repaired, shoot it , and pass it on! Getting it restored would have it lose all of its family value.

[chris dawe]

I got a charge from that too Dee,thanks...I still got my Grandfathers Stevens single 12 ,at no more than 5lbs kicks like a mule don't begin to describe it !

I can remember Dad shooting an old stray Tom cat who courting his stable cat ...when the smoke cleared and he recovered from a couple stutter steps all he was holding was the buttstock and forend!...shes all together now and restored ,but man did we laugh at that ,I must've been about 10 and can remember falling to my knees with the look on the old mans face .

[Dee Durham]

I got a charge from that too Dee,thanks...I still got my Grandfathers Stevens single 12 ,at no more than 5lbs kicks like a mule don't begin to describe it !

I can remember Dad shooting an old stray Tom cat who courting his stable cat ...when the smoke cleared and he recovered from a couple stutter steps all he was holding was the buttstock and forend!...shes all together now and restored ,but man did we laugh at that ,I must've been about 10 and can remember falling to my knees with the look on the old mans face .

I just got the biggest giggle out of that myself!!!! Hahahaha! I'm glad you shared that. I now have the scene palying in my head and keep giggling. I can't imagine the gut busting laugh coming from you at that age. I'm curious what was the look toward you when he knew you were laughing at him? Was it "boy you better get on down the road" or did he snicker at himself as well? That is too funny!

[greg conomos]

Wow....that gun is in amazingly poor condition. Rode hard and put away wet is an understatement .

[chris dawe]

I just got the biggest giggle out of that myself!!!! Hahahaha! I'm glad you shared that. I now have the scene palying in my head and keep giggling. I can't imagine the gut busting laugh coming from you at that age. I'm curious what was the look toward you when he knew you were laughing at him? Was it "boy you better get on down the road" or did he snicker at himself as well? That is too funny!

Yeah, it took a lot to spark the old man,but his eyes were big as plates...we all had good chuckle at it afterwards (all except the old Tom that is ).

I think the gun can be put right,you never know what the future holds

[Dee Durham]

Yeah, it took a lot to spark the old man,but his eyes were big as plates...we all had good chuckle at it afterwards (all except the old Tom that is ).

I think the gun can be put right,you never know what the future holds

What an awesome story and memory to have! Bet you relive that day every time you look at that shotgun hehehe:)

I'm sure it can be and one day I will eventually look into getting something done, but for now I feel just blessed and grateful to have it and be able to share this journey with you guys. I am well aware that it's in terrible shape and know it's going to take a lot of time and effort to get it right.

[Dee Durham]

I just wanted to say hello to everyone and I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas! Miss chatting with everyone!

[Steve Huffman]

Well then stick around ! Do you still have your Parkers gun / hound ?

[Dean Romig]

Merry Christmas to you and yours too Dee.

Hope everything is going well for you.

[Dave Suponski]

Hi Dee! Happy Holidays to You and Yours.....

[Russ Jackson]

Hello Dee , Good to hear from you ,hope all is going well !!!!!!!! Merry Christmas ! :)

[Steve Huffman]

22,665 views of this thread MY ! MY !

[Mills Morrison]

Merry Christmas Dee!

[Dee Durham]

Well then stick around ! Do you still have your Parkers gun / hound ?

Yes sir I sure do! And thank you all for your Christmas wishes! I'm blessed to be a part of such a wonderful group of people!

[George Lander]

I just wanted to say hello to everyone and I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas! Miss chatting with everyone!

Welcome back Dee! It seems that a bunch of us have missed hearing from you.
Don't be a stranger.

Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Welcome back Dee! It seems that a bunch of us have missed hearing from you.
Don't be a stranger.

Best Regards, George

I'm trying not to be! Lol.... I Have my oldest graduating soon and adopted my 5yr old nephew so things have been hectic. Adoption was final April this year...I've had him since he was 3. WOO HOO! It's definately been different having a little one in the house again since mine are almost grown.

[Dean Romig]

You have a big heart Dee. I know families who have adopted cousins from unfortunate circumstances and it's a long haul to get it done but in the end, very well worth it, especially for the youngster. Congratulations!

[George Lander]

Dee: As time passes you won't even think of that little fellow as having been adopted. My two boys (now 49 & 47) were both adopted thru Catholic Charities when less than one month old. Along with my "homemade" daughter (now 53) my children are the light of my life. Good Luck & Best Regards, George

[Dee Durham]

Thank you! He has definately been a blessing to us. He had a rough start but has picked up and adjusted well. We are just glad he is finally getting to be a kid with the love and support that he so desperately needed. This is Michael Andrew Durham....he was named after my grandpa I inherited my Parker from. Thank you for your kind words and support. I appreciate each and every one of you!

[Dean Romig]

What a pride he must be! And a handsome lad too.

[Rick Losey]

Now that is a Texas sized hat. :)


Merry Christmas to you and yours

[Gerald McPherson]

Now that sure looks like a Parker man to me. May God Bless the little fellow. Merry Christmas to one and all.

[Mills Morrison]

That is great! Good for you Dee

[todd allen]

What a pride he must be! And a handsome lad too.

I agree. A very handsome young man! (His new Mom isn't too shabby either)
Thanks for stopping in, Dee, and lifting up our holiday season.

[Dee Durham]

I agree. A very handsome young man! (His new Mom isn't too shabby either)
Thanks for stopping in, Dee, and lifting up our holiday season.

Lol! Well I'm blushing now...thank you! I'm very flattered.

[Thomas L. Benson Sr.]

Dee: love him and enjoy the little guy because it seems like time flys by and they are grown and gone. Thomas

[charlie cleveland]

merry christmas... charlie

[Dee Durham]

Hello everyone! I just wanted to stop in and say HI to everyone here.....I miss all of you and wanted you to know that I still have the Ol Parker. LOL

[Reggie Bishop]

Nice to see you posting again!

[Dean Romig]

It’s good to know you still have the old Parker Dee - It’s a treasure!





.

[Chris Robenalt]

I didn't realize this post is 13 years old. I guess my take on this gun is just leave it as found. Enjoy it along with the old pics, and the stories they tell. Together they're a piece of your family history. If you were planning on shooting and using this gun, I'd spend the money and restore it, but I don't think that's the case here. We have a couple of guys/members here that could make this gun look like it did when it went in the box to be shipped from the factory. Chris Dawe and Brian Dudley, both master craftsman. Although costly, it may be well worth it. A gun of this grade deserves to be put back in the field behind a good bird dog! Well, for what's it's worth, good luck with whatever you decide!

Chris, AZ

[William Woods]

This thread started prior to my knowledge of the PGCA, but after reading it in it's entirety, I think it represents what the PGCA is about. Thank you to Ms. Durham and all the posters for this very interesting story.

[todd allen]

I think that Dee is somewhat of a PGCA celebrity.
A pretty young lady with an interesting Parker inheritance story, told in a compelling manner.
What's not to love?

[Dee Durham]

It’s good to know you still have the old Parker Dee - It’s a treasure!





.

It most definitely is thank you

[Dee Durham]

I think that Dee is somewhat of a PGCA celebrity.
A pretty young lady with an interesting Parker inheritance story, told in a compelling manner.
What's not to love?

Thank you so very much!

[Dee Durham]

This thread started prior to my knowledge of the PGCA, but after reading it in it's entirety, I think it represents what the PGCA is about. Thank you to Ms. Durham and all the posters for this very interesting story.

I am forever grateful to this entire group. It is such an amazing collection of people, and I am blessed to be a part of it.

[Dee Durham]

I didn't realize this post is 13 years old. I guess my take on this gun is just leave it as found. Enjoy it along with the old pics, and the stories they tell. Together they're a piece of your family history. If you were planning on shooting and using this gun, I'd spend the money and restore it, but I don't think that's the case here. We have a couple of guys/members here that could make this gun look like it did when it went in the box to be shipped from the factory. Chris Dawe and Brian Dudley, both master craftsman. Although costly, it may be well worth it. A gun of this grade deserves to be put back in the field behind a good bird dog! Well, for what's it's worth, good luck with whatever you decide!

Chris, AZ

Hi Chris! Thank you for the insight and thoughts. I would LOVE nothing more than to restore it to its once prime but as you said that would be at a very nice price tag. Not in the cards for this old Parker as of yet. I do agree that it would be pretty awesome to see it at its best and being shot once again…maybe one day. I appreciate you!

[Chris Robenalt]

Dee, I somewhat restore alot of these old guns not to make them pretty, but more to make them usable. My preference is to use a gun that looks it's age, but well taken care of. I can't afford the pretty stuff myself, but they sure look nice when they get that face lift and new wood! I'm more of a purist, i like a gun that shows wear and tells many stories from the past. I think your gramps Parker will do the same if you listen hard enough. Honestly I can't see sinking alot of money into a gun if you're not going to use and enjoy it. Enjoy the ride and live vicariously through your grandfather's life and his days with the old Parker.

Chris, AZ

[David Noble]

Hello Dee. I just read through this entire thread once again. You have seen that the Parker guys here are quality people, but I think you should know that you yourself are just that sort of person also. Your early posts were so endearing, and your willingness to share the story of this fine shotgun, your family, and your thoughts with us is testament to the way you were raised. You are young compared to the average age of most of the members here including myself, but you have wisdom beyond your years. We all appreciate that you found this site and help make this one of the premiere threads ever with over 96,123 views. I want to thank you for revisiting the site and saying hello. It's like hearing from a long missed family member. I pray that God will bless you and your family, and that someday the CHE will be passed down to one of your children. I feel sure that you have raised them to appreciate good things and fine people, and this thread will still be available for them to look back on to see just how much the old gun, and the fine
young woman you are, meant to all of us here.