Navy Colt Pistol
Period1861
Place MadeNew York
MediumWalnut, steel, brass
Dimensions13 in. (33 cm)
MarkingsEngraved on steel frame, "COLTS / PATENT" and "36 CAL"
On underside of grip, "3505"
On barrel, "ADDRESS COL. SAML. COLT NEW YORK US AMERICA"
ClassificationsMilitary Artifacts
Credit LineGift of Joseph Collins, 2022
Object number2022.10.1
DescriptionA Colt 1861 Navy cap & ball .36-caliber six-shot revolver, featuring a rounded barrel, with brass trigger guard and back strap.Curatorial RemarksThis revolver belonged to the donor's great-great-grandfather Alfred B. Holston (1835-1901), who served as a Private in Company B of the 29th Regiment, New Jersey Infantry. Holston mustered into service at Freehold, New Jersey, under Captain Thomas Robinson, Colonel E.F. Applegate, and W.R. Taylor. His company saw action in Virginia at the Battle of Fredricksburg in December of 1862, as well at the Battle of Chancellorsville in May of 1863. Following an honorable discharge from Army service, Holston joined the United States Navy in August of 1864 and served the remainer of the War.NotesThe Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver was produced by Colt's Manufacturing Company from 1861 until 1873, and saw widespread use during the American Civil War. It relied on paper cartridges of nitrated paper, a pre-measured black powder charge, and a lead bullet, enabling faster reloading than traditional powder charges.
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