Can someone I.D. this rifle/musket?

[Louisiana1]

Hi my name is Chris. I am from Louisiana. I found this rifle while cleaning up my grandfathers house. I have not been able to figure out anything about it. It is heavy and long! The letters S.H.WARL are stamped on the barrle. I have attached several pictures in hopes that someone can shed some light on it for me. Thanks for all the help.

[Andrew]

looks like a type of Kentucky rifle.
andrew

[emileverbunt]

Hello Chris,

As was said earlier; this could be a Kentucky long rifle. Hard to say though as you do not give all that much details. In any case it started life as a flintlock and has been converted at some time to percussion. Probably in the early 1800's. The wrist of the stock was repaired as well. Period repair I gather.

This could well be a very collectible rifle. Have it appraised by a reputed antiques dealer, but first obtain some info from a gun forum that specialises in early American long rifles! Do not clean it and do not take it apart!! No oiling! It did survive in this good condition so far. Keep it that way!

Have a look at this site for starters: Kentucky Longrifles

Good luck,

Emile

[copdoc]

Very Nice, appears to be "SH Ward" (1835-1905) from Jamestown NC. Google it and you will get a lot of information. He is one of the most prolific of the Jamestown smiths. He married into the Lamb family.(also smiths)

If you do not find a lot of info I have some books and will look it up for you.

edited to add pics of a friends Ward. This one is very ornate.