This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: uncas13 Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.montana.counties.meagher/91.2.1.1.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I have since realized after examining the inscription under magnification, that what I thought was an "o" was indeed an "e." SO, it's Cotter's rifle. The inscription is crude and hand done by Cotter. I will encluse a few pictures to show you. The rifle appears to have been owned by a George Wilson during the Gold Rush and is so dated. So Cotter got it from Wilson or whomever Wilson may have given it to. It's a Model 1841 Tryon rifle dated 1847 purchased for the Mexican War. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.