John Henry Johnston, his son James Henry, and grandson John A. were all makers of Pennsylvania long rifles. James was the founder of the well known Great Western Gunworks in Pittsburg just after the Civil War. This rifle was likely produced by the shop of the elder Johnston in the years leading up the Civil War. The rifle has blade front and notch rear sights on a browned octagon barrel signed "J. H. JOHNSTON." in script on top. The muzzle has circle designs. The "H ELWELL/WARRANTED" marked lock has some scroll and hunting scene patterns. The rifle is equipped with adjustable double set triggers and is mounted on a full length maple stock with brass furniture including an ornate four-piece patchbox with pierced finial and engraving. The release button is in the coordinately engraved toe plate. The stock also has sixteen engraved silver inlays, including an eagle and shield design on the oval cheekpiece inlay, as well as attractive molding and incised carving.