TOPE FAMILY PAGE

  "I (i.e., Curt Johnson) live in the same area where Henry Tope worked, so he has been among the 'local' gunsmiths in whom I have been particularly interested. There were a number of other makers in this area, and I own rifles made by a number of them. Until recently, I had never seen or heard of a signed rifle made by Henry Tope.  Just over a year ago, I bought a percussion longrifle that was found in the top of an old barn, on a farm southwest of Annawan, Henry County, Illinois. This rifle was found wrapped in an old blanket, up in the rafters with some old lumber. The farm had changed hands during the 1990's, after being in one family since before the Civil War. I bought the rifle in 'as found' condition, which was filthy, rusty, and covered with layers of soot. I did not know what I had purchased until I brought it home and carefully began removing the rust scale from the top barrel flat of the octagon barrel. This is the usual location for a maker's signature. I could tell that there was a script signature there, and after further cleaning, was finally able to read it....'H. Tope'! It went from an "interesting old rifle" to a prized possession, in a matter of seconds. It has now been professionally restored by a well-known restorer, Dan Breitenstein." [See note]




Notice the engraved name: H. Tope

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Note:
This statement and photos were received in an email from Curt Johnson, Monday, December 01, 2008, 6:16pm.  Mr. Johnson is the author of GUNMAKERS OF ILLINOIS, 1683 -1900, published in two volumes by Geo. Shumway Publisher, York Pennsylvania.

Updated December 4, 2008
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