Pepperbox revolvers were popular in the 1830s to 1850s for self-defense. This pepperbox is one of an estimated 2,500-3,000 pepperboxes manufactured by the Manhattan Fire Arms Mfg. Co. of New York c. 1856-1859. At the end of the 1850s, the company switched to manufacturing revolvers. The Manhattan pepperboxes are very similar to Ethan Allen's designs but were not simply re-branded Allen pepperboxes as some have suggested even though they were manufactured in Norwich, Connecticut, where Allen had previously been based in 1842-1847. The barrels were manufactured by Thomas K. Bacon. This revolver is an early example from c. 1856 based on the low number and the address being on the barrel rather than the hammer. It has a fluted barrel group marked 'MANHATTAN F.A. MF'G CO NEW-YORK" in one flute, "CAST-STEEL" in another flute, and "37" at the breech between two of the nipples. The trigger guard also has "37" on the inside as do the grips, the frame, and the various internal components. The frame features scroll engraving on the sides. It comes in a fitted mahogany case along with a red Moroccan leather wrapped powder flask with a plunger spout and a screw-off bottom, a ball mold, a loading/cleaning rod, a lidded compartment for ammunition, and the key. Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection