L. Jordan Chicago gunsmith?

[John Campbell]

Gentlemen:
After some years away from this forum, I've returned with great appreciation for its quality and civility.

That said, I wonder if any members have information on a gunsmith/barrelmaker named "L. Jordan" who was based in Chicago - probably between 1900 and 1950 some time.

I ask because I've just acquired a GH Parker that I believe he re-barreled in high-grade Damascus (English, I believe). The workmanship and fit are worthy of the finest London or Continental makers. The top rib of these 26-inch barrel is engraved "L. Jordan Chicago." That's it. No other markings.

I'd sure like to know more about this fellow if he was the craftsman responsible.

Best, Kensal

[Bill Murphy]

Post a picture of the rib markings. Are the markings of Jordan's name the only markings? What are the barrel flats markings?

[Christopher Lien]

Post a picture of the rib markings. Are the markings of Jordan's name the only markings?
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Bill, I believe this may be the Parker in question, hope this helps...

http://brushcreekarmory.com/S0290L.jpg

Best, CSL
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[Drew Hause]

The barrels are a nice D4; atypical but found on Grade 2s.
As Bill said, how are the barrel flats marked? See https://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfg2hmx7_268gzhjpd4d

[Dean Romig]

The barrels look as old (condition) as the gun is. Interesting rib - not original Parker Bros. for sure. The engraved band around the breech end of the barrels looks very much like examples I've seen on C grade Parkers of about that vintage. The frame engraving pattern is that of the earliest Grade 2 Hammerless Parkers.

[John Campbell]

Friends:
Thanks for all of your gracious input and more. You guessed right. I ended up with the Brush Creek Armory gun. I swear the barrels were made by an English craftsman. They lock up more solid than any Parker I've ever handled. I've posted four pics in the albums section.... Jordan Parker. Please pardon the inverted action shot, but I didn't have time to PhotoShop it yet. The others are a little "blue" for the same reason.

As you can see, the barrel flats are totally unmarked... and not "swamped" like standard Parker flats. No marks on the lump either. Only the name on the top rib.

The Parker book says the gun was made in 1889, but it is NOT listed in the serialization book.

Hope you gentlemen can help with my quest.

Best, Kensal