Single Shot Exchange

The Second Model was a simplified version of the original and still used the same metallic cartridge. There were also sporting models sold, which had interchangeable barrels in 35, 40, and 50 calibers along with a 64-caliber shotgun barrel. Maynard designed what I often refer to as the original Thompson Contender. Like many other firearm inventors, Dr. Maynard also modified the Musket with a hinged breechblock to take his cartridge. But it never materialized as a commercial product. He also developed a bolt conversion utilizing the existing hammer. Again, it was never produced commercially. After the Civil War, new patents were issued as he upgraded the Carbine to the 1873 Breech-Loader. Available now with an internally primed cartridge and sold with interchangeable rifle and shotgun barrels it was widely accepted and a commercial success. As the 1873 “pan head” cartridge was only produced by Maynard, he further upgraded the model to the 1882 version which used the more modern thinner rim cartridge such as we use today. In 1895 the Massachusetts Arms Company (the producer of Maynard carbines and rifles) was purchased by the J. Stevens Arms and Tool Company who continued to sell rifles based on the Maynard action until 1930. Many of these Steven’s rifles are found today, in various conditions. Dr. Maynard’s last patent was again ahead of its time and forward thinking. Being an indicator for the number of cartridges remaining in a magazine fed arm. There is much more to the Maynard story. I have pulled the information for this article from the excellent book: Dr. Edward Maynard: “Letters from the Land of the Tsar 1845-1846”, by Rodney S. Hatch III. I encourage anyone interested in the history of Dr Edward Maynard to pick up a copy and read about this amazing inventor.

SCV & UDC Southern Social 144th National Skirmish Thursday Evening 5:00 PM Room below the museum

To meet all the members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, United Daughters of the Confederacy, Sons of Union Veterans and Daughters of Union Veterans that are also N-SSA members, there will be a meeting at the 144th National. We will have no agenda, only the opportunity to meet fellow Compatriots and Daughters. The N-SSA, UDC, SCV, SUV and DUV work hand-in-hand participating in parades, memorial services, reenactments, monument dedications, etc.

All N-SSA members are invited to attend the meeting/social. Just bring a chair or camp stool and your favorite drink.

Civil War CrossWord Answer Key

Crossword on page 16