This Fall 2017 issue of the Kentucky Rifle Association Bulletin presents original research, artifact documentation, and historical analysis contributed by members and scholars of the Association. Featured content emphasizes evidence based study, careful examination of surviving objects, and informed interpretation grounded in primary sources.. [read more]
This Fall 2015 Bulletin features Part I of a comprehensive study of Pennsylvania gunsmith Leonard Reedy, examining his family origins, apprenticeship under John Bonewitz, and early career in Germansville, Womelsdorf, and Pine Grove. Using primary records and firearm analysis, the article addresses attribution questions and establishes a documented foundation for understanding Reedy’s work within the Womelsdorf school of American longrifle making. [read more]
This Fall 2014 Bulletin documents the defense of the Miller Block House in western Pennsylvania during a 1782 frontier attack, focusing on Ann Hupp’s role and a Lancaster made longrifle attributed to Joel Ferree. Using primary records and firearm analysis, the issue separates documented history from frontier folklore and examines transitional American rifles associated with Revolutionary era service. [read more]
This Fall 2013 Bulletin examines the long standing attribution issues surrounding gunsmith Christian Beck of Jonestown, Pennsylvania. Drawing on church records, tax rolls, estate documents, and signed rifles, the article clarifies Beck family relationships and corrects prior misidentifications of Christian Beck “the Earlier” and “the Later.” The study establishes a documented framework for accurately identifying rifles produced by Christian Beck during the early nineteenth century. [read more]
