Pattern 1759 Light Dragoon Pistol

Status

Not on view

Label Text

One of the most common pistols carried by mounted troops on both sides during the Revolutionary War, this pistol was ultimately acquired by Second Lieutenant Cornelius Garrison of the Maryland Harford County Militia.

Date1761

Maker Jordan

Geography Made - England

Medium/TechniqueWalnut, iron, steel, brass

DimensionsOverall: 5 3/4 in. × 15 3/4 in. × 2 1/4 in. (14.61 cm × 40.01 cm × 5.72 cm)

Credit LineGift of Barbara Garrison Cornyn, 2017

Object numberH-5552

DescriptionPattern 1759 Light Dragoon pistol with walnut stock, round barrel, rounded brass mounts and straight-bottomed regulation lock for the pattern. Regulation cast brass mounts. .66 caliber round steel barrel.

Markings: Top of barrel, "17 Drags" (regiment); under trigger guard, "F/31" (possibly rack number); lock plate "Jordan/1761" (manufacturer and date), "crown/GR/broad arrow".

The pistol has been restored. The stock is in good condition although there are two areas of wood fill along with some age cracking. Two screws were later added for mounting, and the cock and ramrod are later replacements. Some minor pitting to the barrel consistent with age.

Mount Vernon's object research is ongoing and information about this object is subject to change. For information on image use and reproductions, click here.