This very attractive smoothbore is gun No. 31 in "George Schreyer, Sr. & Jr. Gunmakers of Hanover, York County, Pennsylvania" by George Shumway where it is noted as: "Length overall 59 5/8 inches. Octagonal smoothbore barrel 44 inches long, .50 caliber" and "This unsigned piece is attributed to George Schreyer, Sr., without hesitation. For many years it was part of the collection of the late James S. Lewis, but in 1987 it was sold at auction and I have not been able to locate it for further photography and measurements. The patchbox is a unique design, simple but pleasing, and the relief-carved decoration is yet another example of Schreyer's skill. The usual fleur-de-lis is carved at atop the wrist." The rifle has notable similarities with rifles No. 32 and 33 in the book as well, the latter signed "G. Schreyer". The current rifle is also featured within the article "Identifying a Kentucky Longrifle: The George Schreyer-John Fondersmith-JFS Connection" by Glenn Marsh, M.D., in the American Society of Arms Collectors Bulletin 84. Now, this rifle is again available for purchase and study. In addition to the details discussed above, the "smooth rifle" features traditional dovetailed blade and notch sights, a faint rectangular marking on the inside of the lockplate, plain single trigger, brass furniture, and a figured maple stock. The stock features exceptional raised relief and incised carving and molding. There are three sets of three incised crescents behind the ramrod entry point along with raised relief carving that becomes incised carving to the sides. The flats are well-formed and feature beautifully executed drops. The classic Schreyer fleur-de-lis carving is on top at the barrel tang. There is very interesting carving at the front of the butt that varies on the right side from the left. On the left side, extraordinarily cleanly carved "C" scrolls extend off of the cheekpiece. The four-piece patchbox has primarily "wiggle" line engraving, and the patchbox release is on the heel. A short toe plate secured by two pins is installed and has coordinating engraving. Provenance: The James S. Lewis Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Fine as reconverted with dark patina underneath a protective coating, mild pitting, vice marks on the barrel, crack in the neck of the cock, attractively aged patina on the brass furniture, and generally fairly mild overall wear. The ramrod is a longer replacement. The stock is very fine and has crisp carving and molding, mild dings and scratches, attractive figure, and generally fairly minor wear. Mechanically fine.