Late 1850s, .28 caliber 3 in. barrels marked CAST STEEL, the left side of the hammer marked MANHATTAN F.A. MFG. CO / NEW.YORK, engraved frame, two-piece walnut grips; the lined wooden case contains a bullet mold, powder flask with percussion caps, and rod.

Case 2-1/4 x 7-3/4 x 4-3/4 in.

This weapon belonged to Private Terrence McGowan, "F" Co., 9th U.S. Infantry, stationed in San Francisco area, 1860-1864. McGowan re-enlisted after the Civil War, staying in California to serve with the 2nd and 4th U.S. Artillery. He was discharged in 1873 and died in 1875. Included with the pistol are facsimiles of the records used by McGowan's widow to justify her claims to his pension. The couple had been married in 1855.

Working action with pleasing natural patina; case key mechanism does not work.