This early 19th century rifle is marked "Newmarket made" in an inlaid silver band and "H. * SPITZER" on the barrel. The lock is marked "H&[?]", and the patch box has "C. Kelsey" in a second inlaid silver band on the door. The rifle has the standard style blade and notch sights and is equipped with double set triggers. The full length curly maple stock has brass furniture including the ornate patch box which opens using a button on the bottom of the buttstock, carved lines, cheekpiece, and 11 silver plates. The Spitzer family of gunmakers were active in Virginia before the American Revolution. A Spitzer produced weapons for the Virginia Council of Safety. This rifle was produced by Henry Spitzer (1767-1840) who moved to New Market in 1795. His sons Charles (1807-1863) and William (1815-1884) were also gunsmiths and were active in New Market. C. Kelsey was likely the guns original owner. The patch box has attributes very similar to those seen on some of George Grandstaff's rifles which were also produced in Shenandoah County in the early 19th century. Note the similarity to the side plates of the patch box on page 107 of Gunsmiths of Virginia by James B. Whisker. Rifles by Henry Spitzer are pictured on pages 150, 152, and 153. A hickory ramrod is included.

Very good as reconverted to flintlock configuration. The rifle has a dark mixture of an old blue finish, brown patina, and oxidation. There is moderate pitting particularly at the breech. The brass and silver have an attractive aged patina. There is some potting on the patch box. The wood is good as repaired and re-oiled and has some hairline cracks, material absent around the poorly fit replacement lock, and various minor marks and dings. The center wedge is absent and the others are replacements. The figure is very attractive. The lock functions fine. Some of the markings are faint or obscured, but most remain legible.