*British, c.1845, Percussion Sporting Gun Converted from Flintlock by Thomas Williamson of Bridgnorth, Shropshire (Obsolete Calibre)*
An evocative early Victorian percussion sporting gun, converted from flintlock, by Thomas Williamson of Bridgnorth, Shropshire, circa 1845. Measuring approximately 122.5 cm overall with an 81.5 cm (32 in) browned twist barrel, the top flat is engraved faintly: “– BRIDGNORTH –”. Though Thomas Williamson’s full name is not present on the barrel or lock, the distinctive engraving style and placement of “BRIDGNORTH” precisely match those seen on other documented Williamson guns of the period, confirming the attribution.
The lockplate, of earlier flintlock form, has been neatly adapted for percussion ignition with a forged bolster and nipple seat. It bears fine foliate engraving with a flying bird motif and a circular cartouche enclosing the intertwined maker’s mark - which looks like “T W” . The action operates correctly at half- and full-cock.
The walnut full-stock displays finely hand-cut chequering to the wrist and fore-end, iron furniture with engraved tang, trigger guard and butt-plate, and a brass-tipped wooden ramrod of period form. The bore is of obsolete calibre (approximately 16–18 bore).
Historical Note:
Thomas Williamson, gunmaker of Bridgnorth, Shropshire, was active during the 1840s and later traded as Williamson & Sons with additional premises in Ludlow. His work represents the refined provincial gunmaking of mid-19th-century England—locally assembled and finished sporting guns produced to a high standard. The present example typifies the transitional period when many quality flintlocks were converted to the new percussion system. Such work was common among regional gunsmiths like Williamson, whose clientele were country sportsmen seeking reliable and elegant firearms without commissioning entirely new guns. The barrel legend and engraving style correspond directly to Thomas Williamson rifles, confirming both the Bridgnorth signature format and decorative style unique to his workshop.
*Condition*
Good overall, showing honest age and use. Metal surfaces with an even, untouched dark patina and scattered fine pitting. Lockplate engraving crisp, circular maker’s mark that could be “TW”. Barrel legend legible under magnification. Stock sound with small age marks, minor handling dents, and one stable age crack near the lock; finely cut chequering retains good definition. Brass-tipped ramrod likely original. Mechanism strong and functional. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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