Description
11/21/24 - This is a historic Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver, presented by the State of Vermont to Civil War Lieutenant John H. Hutchinson of the 3rd Vermont Volunteer Infantry upon his commission on May 27, 1861. Chambered in .31 caliber, the revolver features a 6-inch octagonal barrel marked with a Colt New York address. The brass trigger guard and backstrap retain traces of their original silver plating, and the backstrap is engraved with the inscription: "J.H. Hutchinson from State of VT./Com'd 1st Lieut. May 27 - 1861." The gun is in very good condition for its age, though most of the bluing has worn away with time, leaving a pleasing, uniform greyish patina. Markings are crisp, and the original stagecoach holdup scene is retained, though fading very slightly in a couple of areas. Functional mechanics, with tight lockup and excellent timing. Bore has very strong rifling, but shows heavy oxidation throughout. Fitted with a set of beautiful walnut grips that have no chips or cracks and minimal handling marks. Most of the varnish intact besides for some thinning in a very small area around the bottom perimeter of both panels. This listing includes photocopies which thoroughly document Hutchinson's service history and records, and original carte-de-visite photograph of Hutchinson in uniform, along with a family-provenance card detailing his service and the revolverÄôs presentation, as well as Hutchinson's original silverware.
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Lieutenant Hutchinson served in the Eastern Theater of the Civil War, including key battles at Seven Pines and Chantilly, and later as an aide-de-camp to General George McClellan during the Peninsula Campaign, where he was reportedly the last officer to evacuate. His contributions are documented in "Signal Corps in the War of the Rebellion" by Brown (1897), which also features his photograph. This revolver is a rare and historically significant artifact, commemorating VermontÄôs recognition of HutchinsonÄôs service in both the 3rd Vermont Infantry and the U.S. Signal Corps.
