Riflemakers List

Martin, Michael

School: Lancaster (Pennsylvania/PA)

Michael Martin paid taxes as a gunsmith from 1820 to 1839 in Brecknock Twp., Lancaster Co., PA. It is likely that he worked beyond 1839, perhaps as late as 1850. Martin built guns in the early manner, substantial yet well proportioned and graceful, often with 4-piece brass patchboxes.

Demuth, John

School: Maryland

Graceham John DeMuth is listed as contributing 54 rifles to General Hand’s contract at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for Continental rifles in 1794. On February 16, 1796, apprenticeship records show DeMuth was living in Frederick County, training Henry Koch. The Moravian Church Records reveal Johann Demuth was married to Catharina and a daughter, Sophia Theresia, was baptized on August 27, 1797. During this period there were four Demuth families in the Moravian Settlement at Graceham. By 1828 he was in Bushkill Center, Northampton County, Pennsylvania. For further reference, see Arms Makers of Maryland. For additional information see, Maryland Longrifles Hartzler/Whisker.

Moll, David

School: Northampton/Lehigh (Pennsylvania/PA)

David Moll (1807 – 1853) was the brother of John Jr. and Peter Moll. David joined his brother, Peter, in Hellertown in the very late 1820’s-1830. Together they formed the great P&D Moll gunshop of Hellertown. They are best known for their high grade pistols and fine rifles.

Lett, James

School: Bear Creek School (North Carolina/NC)

Listed in the Moore County North Carolina census in 1840. Only one longrifle is known to this maker, but it bears the tradition of Bear Creek and Moore County gunsmiths.
Source:
Ivey, William. North Carolina Schools of Longrifles 1765-1865. Thomasville, NC: Published by the Author, 2010. Print.