William Williams, Signer’s, Musket and Snuff Box

William Williams, Signer’s, Musket and Snuff Box
Rare 18th century Musket and snuff box engraved, ‘William Wiliams’ who lived in Lebanon, CT and was Colonel in the CT Militia. He served in the French and Indian War. On August 2, 1776, he added his signature to the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. As a Militia Colonel he defended New London, CT from the attach by Benedict Arnold during the Revolutionary War.

Musket: A very rare early 18th century American made musket with the name ‘Wm Williams’ engraved across the original butt plate. Wm Williams carried this musket in the F&I War and in the Revolutionary War. The musket has survived in excellent condition however it has had period modification over its more than 250 years of use.  The stock, the brass butt plate, trigger guard, and rear pipe are original. The original musket barrel has been shortened about 8” during the period and the original flintlock has been replaced during the period with a 19th century percussion lock and a matching side plate. While restoration to period alteration is possible option, I have chosen to enjoy this historically important musket in the state of its survival.

Snuff Box: This brass snuff box made by an American Silversmith is engraved ‘William Williams’,

Provenance: Robert Thebert, Sr Deansboro, NY and son, Robert Thebert, Jr, Clay, NY purchased the musket engraved ‘Wm Williams’ and this snuff box engraved ‘William Williams’ from the Williams family in Lebanon, Ct in 1988. (see letter)