Sec 32. “What shall be specified on tax list . . . Farming utensils, tools of mechanics, household and kitchen furniture, provisions, fire-arms..."

Public Laws and Resolutions of the State of North Carolina, Sec 32. “What shall be specified on tax list . . . Farming utensils, tools of mechanics, household and kitchen furniture, provisions, fire-arms, libraries and scientific instruments”, 1905

"In England, this right is qualified by the condition, that the arms must be suitable to the condition and degree of the bearer; but here there is no qualification."

Introduction to American Law, “Also, “that the people have a right to bear arms for their defence and security.” In England, this right is qualified by the condition, that the arms must be suitable to the condition and degree of the bearer; but here there is no qualification .”, 1905

“But no means can be used which infringe the right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Constitution.”

Common Pleas Court, Walter V. The State Of Ohio, “But no means can be used which infringe the right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Constitution.”, Jan. 6, 1905

“Under this provision the people of Ohio, and all the people, are given the right, and the equal right, to carry arms for the purpose of self-defense and protection.”

Attorney General Wade H. Ellis, “Under this provision the people of Ohio, and all the people, are given the right, and the equal right, to carry arms for the purpose of self-defense and protection.”, June 14, 1906

“While under the theory of our organic law, the right of the citizen to bear arms in defense of his home and property is identical with that to defend his person..."

St. Louis Court of Appeals, “While under the theory of our organic law, the right of the citizen to bear arms in defense of his home and property is identical with that to defend his person, it is true that the right to employ such arms in defense of either home or property is not of that same high and sacred order as the right to defend his person, nevertheless such rights are analogous and nearly allied, as is manifest by the spirit of the Constitution”, July 9, 1906

“if we deprive the free citizenship of this right to keep and bear arms for the common defense, we have no more free citizens.”

Maine Senators Powers & Anthoine, “if we deprive the free citizenship of this right to keep and bear arms for the common defense, we have no more free citizens.”, March 18, 1925

“According to “The Federalist” this limitation indicates that the security of liberty against the tyrannical tendencies of power is only to be found in the right of the people to keep and bear arms with which to resist oppression.”

The Origin and Growth of the American Constitution, “According to “The Federalist” this limitation indicates that the security of liberty against the tyrannical tendencies of power is only to be found in the right of the people to keep and bear arms with which to resist oppression.”, 1911

This should make the "Progressives" wince....

1908: “It is not the police that the housebreaker fears, but the defensive weapon of the citizen whose house he enters with criminal intent.”

The National Magazine, “It is not the police that the housebreaker fears, but the defensive weapon of the citizen whose house he enters with criminal intent.”, Oct., 1907 to March, 1908

"Furthermore, it used to be a favorite means with arbitrary rulers to enslave their subjects by forbidding the keeping and bearing of arms."

Article II.–The Right to Bear Arms

A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

   159. The Right Important.–If the people were deprived of the right to keep and bear arms they would be lacking in preparation for war. Furthermore, it used to be a favorite means with arbitrary rulers to enslave their subjects by forbidding the keeping and bearing of arms. But while a person may go about in our country wjth a gun or other deadly weapon in the hand, he is not allowed to carry concealed deadly weapons. However, this is not forbidden by Congress, but by the States.

[The Government of the United States By L.S. Shimmell, Ph.D. District Supervisor Of Schools, Harrisburg, PA. Author Of "The Pennsylvania Citizen," "A History Of Pennsylvania," And "Border Warfare In Pennsylvania During The Revolution" New York Maynard, Merrill, & Co. 1906 Pg. 117]

1/16/1886: “Still, it has at all times urged the arming of all the people.”

The Current, “Still, it has at all times urged the arming of all the people.”, Jan. 16, 1886

"No officer, civil or military, or other person, shall take from or demand of the owner any firearms mentioned in this chapter, except where the services of the owner are also required to keep the peace or defend the state."

The Organic and Other General Laws of Oregon, “No officer, civil or military, or other person, shall take from or demand of the owner any firearms mentioned in this chapter, except where the services of the owner are also required to keep the peace or defend the state.”. Oct. 24, 1868

"where a so styled "armed people," like an avalanche, crushed standing armies of world known fame."

   "An amendment to our National Constitution says: "A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed." The truth of this provision requires no lengthy comment. The liberty of a people rests on themselves, on their character and institutions, and on their ability to guard against usurpation. The safety of a nation depends on their superiority of culture and the general knowledge the art of war. This was most powerfully demonstrated in the recent Franco-German war in Europe, where a so styled "armed people," like an avalanche, crushed standing armies of world known fame. The enforcement of laws requires often more than ordinary preparations, especially in a Republic as ours, which is subject to constant political fluctuations, and presents a conglomeration of all nationalities with different proclivities and propensities. We cannot, therefore, dispense with a system of military preparations, however cumbersome it may be to an industrious people. A good militia is the more needed as sound Republican principles demand that a regular standing army in a Republic be reduced to an absolute necessity."--Albert Sigel, Adjutant-General of Missouri, [Report Of The Adjutant-General For 1871. Jefferson City, Nov. 20, 1871. Pg. 12]

U.S. Senator A.G. Thurman: "Here is another right of a citizen of the United States, expressly declared to be his right--the right to bear arms; and this right, says the Constitution, shall not be infringed."

U.S. Senator A.G. Thurman, “Here is another right of a citizen of the United States, expressly declared to be his right–the right to bear arms; and this right, says the Constitution, shall not be infringed.”, Feb. 6, 1873

U.S. Senators Willey and Hendricks: ”If this infringes the right of the people to bear arms we have no authority to adopt it.”

U.S. Senators Willey and Hendricks, “it takes the right to bear arms away from every citizen of the southern States, loyal and disloyal”/”If this infringes the right of the people to bear arms we have no authority to adopt it.”, Feb. 26, 1867

N.Y. Gov. Horatio Seymour: "one of the sacred rights of every American citizen. The Government has so little confidence in the people of these States that it fears to trust them with the privilege of bearing arms."

   "Turning from the consideration of the military power let us ob- [Pg. 236] serve the policy of the Government. To-day our forces compass the mouth of the Mississippi, are present in the harbor of Charleston, and are struggling for the possession of Georgia under Sherman. But let me tell you, also, that to-day it requires more men to hold in the Union the three States of Missouri, Kentucky, and Maryland, than the whole number originally called for to suppress the rebellion. In the beginning these States repudiated secession. Three years ago the North responded with unanimity to the calls of the Government. When on my return from the West at that time, the people Chicago, like the people of Milwaukee, were animated by a spirit unanimity and patriotism. What do we see now? The Government has so little confidence in the people that by an official order, just issued, it denies to the people of Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan, one of the sacred rights of every American citizen. The Government has so little confidence in the people of these States that it fears to trust them with the privilege of bearing arms. The Constitution declares that this right shall not be infringed. Our fathers believed it necessary for the protection of the people from the encroachments arbitrary power. You are told that the people of these States cannot be trusted with arms even to hunt their food upon your broad prairies."

[Pg. 238]

   "...We had been told that the South could not manage their own sectional affairs. We were told that if we were to stop the mouth of the Mississippi the Southern people would starve. We were told much about the superior cost of Southern mail carriage, and that the South could not be driven out of the Union. This course of dangerous agitation has continued until to day. The dominant party approves acts from the contemplation of which they once would have turned away with horror. Had I said here in Milwaukee, three years ago, that a general of the Federal army, this year, would issue an edict denying to the people of the North-west the right to bear arms, or that the writ of habeas corpus would now be suspended, and your citizens be subject to military arrest without the right of trial by jury, I should have been derided and scorned as a madman."--N.Y. Governor Horatio Seymour, speech in Milwaukee September 1, 1864. [Public Record: Including Speeches, Messages, Proclamations, Official Correspondence, And Other Public Utterances Of Horatio Seymour; From The Campaign of 1856 to the Present Time. With An Appendix. Compiled From The Most Authentic Sources, And Printed Exclusively For The Use Of Editors And Public Speakers. Compiled And Edited By Thomas M. Cook And Thomas W. Knox. New York: Published By I.W. England, At The Office of the N.Y. Sun. 1868.]

"a Body of Freemen, animated by a Love of Liberty, and trained to the Use of Arms, afford the most certain and effectual Defence against the Approaches of Slavery and Oppression."

Benjamin Franklin, “a Body of Freemen, animated by a Love of Liberty, and trained to the Use of Arms, afford the most certain and effectual Defence against the Approaches of Slavery and Oppression.”, Sept. 29, 1775

2-27-1775: John Adam’s perfect narrative of how a corrupt government coupled with big business started our Revolution

John Adam’s perfect narrative of how a corrupt government coupled with big business started our Revolution, “Peace is seldom made, and never kept, unless the subject retain such a power in his hands, as may oblige the prince to stand to what is agreed; and in time some trick is found to deprive them of that benefit.”, Feb. 27, 1775

Justices Trowbridge and Oliver: "private persons might not only arm themselves, but make use of their arms"

Justices Trowbridge and Oliver’s Charges to the Jury, [The Boston Massacre Trial] “for the suppressing whereof, private persons might not only arm themselves, but make use of their arms, if they could not otherwise suppress it.”, Dec. 5, 1770

March 8, 1748 Pennsylvania Gazette Ad placed by Benjamin Franklin

   "A Parcel of good Muskets, all well fitted with Bayonets, Belts and Cartouch-Boxes, and Buff Slings to cast over the Shoulder, very useful to such as have Occasion to ride with their Arms; To be sold by B. Franklin."--Pennsylvania Gazette, March 8, 1748

Benjamin Franklin 11/17/1747: "’Tis computed that we have at least (exclusive of the Quakers) 60,000 Fighting Men, acquainted with Fire-Arms"

Plain Truth by Benjamin Franklin, “If this now flourishing City, and greatly improving Colony, is destroy’d and ruin’d, it will not be for want of Numbers of Inhabitants able to bear Arms in its Defence. ’Tis computed that we have at least (exclusive of the Quakers) 60,000 Fighting Men, acquainted with Fire-Arms, many of them Hunters and Marksmen, hardy and bold.”, Nov. 17, 1747

Benjamiin Franklin, 1747: "most People having a Firelock of some kind or other already in their Hands"

Form of Association by Benjamin Franklin, “most People having a Firelock of some kind or other already in their Hands”, Nov. 24, 1747

U.S. Senator Cass: “the House struck out that part which authorizes the taking away of the arms of individuals. It was found, on reflection, to be clearly unconstitutional.”

U.S. Senators Cass & Benjamin/U.S. Rep. Phelps, “the House struck out that part which authorizes the taking away of the arms of individuals. It was found, on reflection, to be clearly unconstitutional.”/”in the exercise of our rights as American freemen, we mean to bear arms, the musket on the shoulder, or the rifle slung across our back, a revolver, if you please, by the side”/”those arms are not now the property of the United States–are now subject to no other control by this Government than the arms which I may have bought and own.”, July 28/Aug. 27, 1856

"This right "to keep and bear arms," implies the right to use them--as much as a provision securing to the people the right to buy and keep food, would imply their right also to eat it."

The Unconstitutionality Of Slavery by Lysander Spooner, “This right “to keep and bear arms,” implies the right to use them–as much as a provision securing to the people the right to buy and keep food, would imply their right also to eat it.”, 1847

“But in all countries where personal freedom is valued . . . [1877]

Commentaries On The Liberty Of The Subject, By James Paterson, “But in all countries where personal freedom is valued, however much each individual may rely on legal redress, the right of each to carry arms–and these the best and the sharpest for his own protection in case of extremity, is a right of nature indelible and irrepressible, and the more it is sought to be repressed the more it will recur.”, 1877

We are NOT "gun owners"...

   We are armed CITIZENS exercising our God-given and inalienable natural right to be able to defend ourselves from all enemies - foreign or domestic. Which of course includes those domestic "enemies" within our own governments that attempt to steal our rights away.

Here's a post from Blugrass Bruce worthy of attention...

Wednesday, December 10, 2014 New York State Deems 278 Gun Owners Too “Unstable” For Firearms New York State is set to confiscate firearms from nearly 300 individuals who the state has judged to be “mentally unfit”, reports say....

This is a dangerous precedent that we cannot afford to allow to be set.

"The Constitution of the United States says the right to carry arms shall not be infringed upon, but the grand old instrument only applies to those who live in the woods..."

Public Ledger, “The Constitution of the United States says the right to carry arms shall not be infringed upon, but the grand old instrument only applies to those who live in the woods…”, Dec. 14, 1881

“With the shout of law and order you disarm the citizen, while the Constitution of his country declares that the right “to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.”

U.S. Rep. Hon. G.A. Grow, “With the shout of law and order you disarm the citizen, while the Constitution of his country declares that the right “to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.””, June 30, 1856

"as it is surely fortunate for a free community to be under some necessity of keeping the whole body acquainted with the use of Arms."

Richard Henry Lee to James Monroe, "as it is surely fortunate for a free community to be under some necessity of keeping the whole body acquainted with the use of Arms.", Jan. 5, 1784

Jan. 12, 1855: “Manufacturer & Importer of Guns, Rifles And Pistols, Double and Single Barrels, Cast Steel & Iron Rifle Barrels”

Vermont Watchman & State Journal, J. Hapgood (Boston) Ad; “Manufacturer & Importer of Guns, Rifles And Pistols, Double and Single Barrels, Cast Steel & Iron Rifle Barrels”, Jan. 12, 1855

Jan. 12, 1855: Sehorn’s/Courtney, Tennent & Co., Charleston, S.C./S.K. Reeder Ad(s) . . .

The Athens Post, Sehorn’s/Courtney, Tennent & Co., Charleston, S.C./S.K. Reeder Ad(s); “Fine Revolving Pistols; Rifle Pistols of all sizes”/”Direct Importers Of Hardware, Cutlery, Guns, Pistols, &c.”/”Rifles. A LOT of Wright’s North Carolina Rifles on han[d] and for sale by S.K. Reeder”, Jan. 12, 1855

Dec. 8, 1854: “has on hand a large and well selected stock of Guns, Pistols, Revolvers, Rifles”/”Brittannia Ware, Guns, Pistols, Revolvers…”

Lewisburg Chronicle, J.O. Richardson Danville Hardware Store Ad(s); “has on hand a large and well selected stock of Guns, Pistols, Revolvers, Rifles”/”Brittannia Ware, Guns, Pistols, Revolvers…”, Dec. 8, 1854

Nov. 1, 1854: “Awarded at the second Annual Fair . . . 7 Guns and Pistols, J.S. Baker . . . 1 Rifle, James Brandel”

Semi-Weekly Standard, “Awarded at the second Annual Fair . . . 7 Guns and Pistols, J.S. Baker . . . 1 Rifle, James Brandel”, Nov. 1, 1854

Oct. 11, 1854: “Just received, an assortment of Double and Single Barreled Shot Guns, and are daily expecting a large assortment of Rifles, Pistols, Revolvers…”

The Grand River Times, Wm. Preusser & Co. Ad; “Just received, an assortment of Double and Single Barreled Shot Guns, and are daily expecting a large assortment of Rifles, Pistols, Revolvers…”, Oct. 11, 1854

Sept. 7, 1854: “A man with a zone of these pistols around his waist would be well nigh invincible. . . . what with their large contracts with the government and perhaps equally extensive business in the general market…”

Green Mountain Freeman, “A man with a zone of these pistols around his waist would be well nigh invincible. . . . what with their large contracts with the government and perhaps equally extensive business in the general market…”, Sept. 7, 1854

Aug. 3, 1854: “Guns! Guns!! Single and Double Barrel Shot Guns, Rifles and Pistols, for sale.”

Fayetteville Observer ["Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy Country's, thy God's, and Truth's."], T.C. Goodrich & Co. Ad; “Guns! Guns!! Single and Double Barrel Shot Guns, Rifles and Pistols, for sale.”, Aug. 3, 1854

July 28, 1854: “Guns, Rifles, Pistols, Gun Cotton; Drinking and Powder Flasks; Rods, Fish Baskets"/“Guns, Rifles, Pistols, Gun Cotton; Drinking and Powder Flasks; Rods, Fish Baskets…”/”Revolving Hammer Pistol”

The Burlington Free Press, Brinsmaid, Brother & Co. Ad(s); “Guns, Rifles, Pistols, Gun Cotton; Drinking and Powder Flasks; Rods, Fish Baskets…”/”Revolving Hammer Pistol”, July 28, 1854

Jan. 17, 1880: “Also a large stock of Guns, Pistols and Ammunition An expert Gunsmith has been employed . . . All Work Warranted to Give Entire Satisfaction.”

The Arizona Citizen, P.F. Nilson Ad; “Also a large stock of Guns, Pistols and Ammunition An expert Gunsmith has been employed . . . All Work Warranted to Give Entire Satisfaction.”, Jan. 17, 1880

Oct. 4, 1879: “Also a selected stock of guns, pistols and ammunition. An expert gunsmith has been employed, who will make repairs on all classes of arms.”

The Arizona Citizen, Phil Shussler Ad; “Also a selected stock of guns, pistols and ammunition. An expert gunsmith has been employed, who will make repairs on all classes of arms.”, Oct. 4, 1879

Feb. 25, 1871: “If found in good order, and the persons holding them have further use for them, you are authorized to re-issue said arms”

AZ. Gov. A.P.K. Safford, “If found in good order, and the persons holding them have further use for them, you are authorized to re-issue said arms”, Feb. 25, 1871

Jan. 21, 1871: “Should citizens or Indians desire to accompany any scouting parties, Post Commanders are authorized to loan them arms, and to furnish them with ammunition..."

Special Orders, “Should citizens or Indians desire to accompany any scouting parties, Post Commanders are authorized to loan them arms, and to furnish them with ammunition and provisions.”, Jan. 21, 1871

Governor of Arizona: “I found upon the receipt of these arms that many of our citizens were without arms or armed with inferior weapons, and I considered it my duty..."

Governor of Arizona: “I found upon the receipt of these arms that many of our citizens were without arms or armed with inferior weapons, and I considered it my duty, in advance of your action, to place them in the hands of those most exposed to Indian hostilities, and least able to purchase them.”, Jan. 14, 1871

Nov. 26, 1870: “It is desired and intended that these arms shall be placed in the hands of men who are most exposed to hostile Indians, and are unable to purchase arms for themselves.”

Arizona Citizen, “It is desired and intended that these arms shall be placed in the hands of men who are most exposed to hostile Indians, and are unable to purchase arms for themselves.”, Nov. 26, 1870

Nov. 7, 1885: “Wholesale & Retail . . . Gun, Pistols, and Ammunition of all Kinds.”/”Marlin Magazine Rifle Best In The World”

Arizona Champion, E.I. Post & Co./Marlin Fire Arms Co. Ads; “Wholesale & Retail . . . Gun, Pistols, and Ammunition of all Kinds.”/”Marlin Magazine Rifle Best In The World”, Nov. 7, 1885

May 9, 1885: “Hardware, Arms And Ammunition . . . Guns, Pistols . . . Repairing a Specialty. Work warranted.”

Arizona Champion, Middleton & Hill Ad; “Hardware, Arms And Ammunition . . . Guns, Pistols . . . Repairing a Specialty. Work warranted.”, May 9, 1885

Feb. 7, 1885: “Every female who has arrived at the age of 21 years will by the passage of this act . . . be endowed with all the privileges enjoyed by man, even to the bearing of arms”

Arizona Champion, “Every female who has arrived at the age of 21 years will by the passage of this act, whether married or single, be endowed with all the privileges enjoyed by man, even to the bearing of arms”, Feb. 7, 1885

May 27, 1854: “To render his services valuable to a deserving public, he will not only make Guns, Pistols and Rifles to order, but will stock, alter into percussion, and repair all kind of fire arms..."

Daily Dispatch, James Walsh Ad; “To render his services valuable to a deserving public, he will not only make Guns, Pistols and Rifles to order, but will stock, alter into percussion, and repair all kind of fire arms neatly, quickly and substantially.”, May 27, 1854

May 10, 1854: “Fine Pocket Cutlery, well assorted. Guns, Pistols, Sword-Canes, Dirk-Knives . . . Rifle, Blasting, and Pistol Powder…”

Nashville Union And American, T. Wells, Wholesale Druggist & Pharmacien Ad; “Fine Pocket Cutlery, well assorted. Guns, Pistols, Sword-Canes, Dirk-Knives . . . Rifle, Blasting, and Pistol Powder…”, May 10, 1854

April 29, 1854: “Guns–Double and single barrelled Guns, Rifles, Revolvers, Pistols and Rifle barrels, Locks and Trimmings of all kinds…”

Plymouth Advertiser, Light & Hofman Ad; “Guns–Double and single barrelled Guns, Rifles, Revolvers, Pistols and Rifle barrels, Locks and Trimmings of all kinds…”, April 29, 1854

March 27, 1854: Official. Laws Of The United States . . . with a gun, rifle, sword, pistol, knife, or any other deadly weapon…”

Official. Laws Of The United States, [Public No. 14.]; “That any white person who shall make an assault upon an Indian, or other person, or any Indian who shall make as assault upon a white person . . . with a gun, rifle, sword, pistol, knife, or any other deadly weapon…”, March 27, 1854

March 24, 1854: “has just returned from the North with the largest supply of every thing ever brought to this or any other place . . . Pistols–Colt’s fine repeating Pistols..."

The Athens Post, Sehorn Ad; “has just returned from the North with the largest supply of every thing ever brought to this or any other place . . . Pistols–Colt’s fine repeating Pistols, with and without cases; Allen & Thurman’s Revolvers…”, March 24, 1854

Feb. 9, 1854: [St. Louis] “Direct Importers and Wholesale Dealers in . . . Guns, Rifles . . . Single and double-barrelled English and German Rifles, Pistols…”

Glasgow Weekly Times, Child, Pratt & Co. [St. Louis] Ad; “Direct Importers and Wholesale Dealers in . . . Guns, Rifles . . . Single and double-barrelled English and German Rifles, Pistols…”, Feb. 9, 1854

Jan. 20, 1854: “To The Public Generally. You will find among the useful a well as ornamental, the following articles: . . . pocket knives, razors, strops, soap, castors, pistols, guns, rifles..."

Fremont Journal, Canfield & Mitchell Ad; “To The Public Generally. You will find among the useful a well as ornamental, the following articles: . . . pocket knives, razors, strops, soap, castors, pistols, guns, rifles, umbrella stands…”, Jan. 20, 1854

Jan. 12, 1854: “The subscriber has just returned from New York with a large stock of . . . Cutlery, Guns, Pistols..."

Glasgow Weekly Times, James R. Shepherd Ad; “The subscriber has just returned from New York with a large stock of . . . Cutlery, Guns, Pistols, Musical Instruments, Perfumery, Soaps and Toys…”, Jan. 12, 1854

Dec. 10, 1853: “WE HAVE just returned from New York and Philadelphia with . . . Clocks and Watches, Pistols..."

Semi-Weekly Standard, Palmer & Ramsay Ad; “WE HAVE just returned from New York and Philadelphia with . . . Clocks and Watches, Pistols and Walking Canes, Perfumery and Extracts”, Dec. 10, 1853

Nov. 24, 1853: “Pistols, Hunter’s Knives, Bowie Knives; in fact every thing that is necessary for man to protect himself against man or animal"

The Jackson Standard, H.W. White Ad; “Pistols, Hunter’s Knives, Bowie Knives; in fact every thing that is necessary for man to protect himself against man or animal“, Nov. 24, 1853

Nov. 3, 1853: “Importers And Dealers In Fine Watches, Clocks, Jewelry, Silver and Plates Ware, Guns, Pistols, Rifles..."

The Abbeville Banner, T.W. Radcliffe & Co. Ad; “Importers And Dealers In Fine Watches, Clocks, Jewelry, Silver and Plates Ware, Guns, Pistols, Rifles, Cutlery, Military and Fancy Goods…”, Nov. 3, 1853

Washington, D.C.: “Pistols! Pistols!! Pistols!!! I have constantly on hand a splendid assortment of–Colt’s and Allen’s Five and Six barrel Revolvers..."

Daily Evening Star, Washington, D.C., Jno. W. Baden Ad; “Pistols! Pistols!! Pistols!!! I have constantly on hand a splendid assortment of–Colt’s and Allen’s Five and Six barrel Revolvers Allen’s Self-cocking Pistols Rifle, Saloon, Double and Single barrel, and Pocket Pistols in great variety”, Oct. 11, 1853

Oct. 8, 1853: “Guns, Rifles, Pistols . . . Revolving and Repeating Pistols . . . Iron and Silver Gun and Rifle Furniture . . . Gun Stocks, Barrels…”

Daily Dispatch, S. Sutherland Ad; “Guns, Rifles, Pistols . . . Revolving and Repeating Pistols . . . Iron and Silver Gun and Rifle Furniture . . . Gun Stocks, Barrels…”, Oct. 8, 1853

Sept. 29, 1853: “Always on hand, at low prices . . . Pistols, Percussion Caps, Looking Glasses, Spectacles, Goggles, Pipes Snuff and Cigar Boxes . . . “

Glasgow Weekly Times, Dings & Co. Ad; “Always on hand, at low prices . . . Pistols, Percussion Caps, Looking Glasses, Spectacles, Goggles, Pipes Snuff and Cigar Boxes . . . “, Sept. 29, 1853

When the news media had sense....

Geneva Courier, “It seems to us if protection can no longer be had at night in our streets and highways, nor a house left in safety, it is time to arm in self-defence.”, Jan. 9, 1878

“Rev. C.H. MacVey . . . This organization opens its membership to every American citizen who is in favor of upholding the constitution of the United States and who believe in the right of the people to keep and bear arms.”

The Republican-Journal, “Rev. C.H. MacVey . . . This organization opens its membership to every American citizen who is in favor of upholding the constitution of the United States and who believe in the right of the people to keep and bear arms.”, Jan. 19, 1926

“Captain Wheatley points out that in Washington’s address to the second session of the first Congress*, he urged promoting the manufacture of firearms as being essential to the security of the American people.”

The Malone Farmer, “Captain Wheatley points out that in Washington’s address to the second session of the first Congress*, he urged promoting the manufacture of firearms as being essential to the security of the American people.”, Aug. 27, 1930

Chicago Chief of Police O’Neill: “I have seen many men carrying rifles in the streets of Chicago, and I never have been called on to molest them. I could not interfere. . . . but in the matter of rifles I am powerless.”

Chicago Chief of Police O’Neill: “I have seen many men carrying rifles in the streets of Chicago, and I never have been called on to molest them. I could not interfere. I have cautioned my men to warn all nonunion and union men not to carry concealed weapons, but in the matter of rifles I am powerless.”, May 6, 1905

Aug. 27, 1825: Folger & Lamb Cash Hardware Store Ad; “They Have On Hand . . . gun and rifle locks . . . musket, rifle, and pistol flints”

Plattsburgh Republican, Plattsburgh Republican, Folger & Lamb Cash Hardware Store Ad; “They Have On Hand . . . gun and rifle locks . . . musket, rifle, and pistol flints”, Aug. 27, 1825

April 24, 1822: “A curious invention in fire arms has lately been completed by an ingenious mechanic of this place . . . both for public and private use..."

Geneva Palladium, Jenning’s Guns: “A curious invention in fire arms has lately been completed by an ingenious mechanic of this place, by the name of Isaiah Jennings; and in point of importance, both for public and private use…”, April 24, 1822

March 15, 1814: “Respectfully inform the public . . . They will keep on hand, or make at short notice, Pistols, cut and smooth bor’d Rifles, and Fowling Pieces, of the first rate.”

Ontario Repository, Marckley & Southerland Ad; “Respectfully inform the public . . . They will keep on hand, or make at short notice, Pistols, cut and smooth bor’d Rifles, and Fowling Pieces, of the first rate.”, March 15, 1814

Sept. 24, 1853: "offers at WHOLESALE and RETAIL a large assortment of Double and Single Barrelled Guns, Rifles, Colt’s and Whitney’s five Shooters, Allen’s six and five barrelled Revolvers..."

Semi-Weekly Standard, C. Leonard Ad; “The subscriber offers at WHOLESALE and RETAIL a large assortment of Double and Single Barrelled Guns, Rifles, Colt’s and Whitney’s five Shooters, Allen’s six and five barrelled Revolvers, and those of all other makers…”, Sept. 24, 1853

July 14, 1853: “Pennsylvania avenue, between 9th and 10th streets . . . Washington, D.C. Goods As Low, wholesale or retail, as in any city in the Union . . . Guns, Rifles, Pistols, Ammunition of all kinds . . .”

Daily Evening Star, Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Hardware Store Ad; “Pennsylvania avenue, between 9th and 10th streets . . . Washington, D.C. Goods As Low, wholesale or retail, as in any city in the Union . . . Guns, Rifles, Pistols, Ammunition of all kinds . . .”, July 14, 1853

July 13, 1853: “Important To Travellers And Housekeepers.–Just received a fine assortment of Colt’s and Allen’s Repeating Pistols . . . They can be drawn from the pocket and used with one hand . . . “

The Daily Dispatch, James Walsh Ad; “Important To Travellers And Housekeepers.–Just received a fine assortment of Colt’s and Allen’s Repeating Pistols . . . They can be drawn from the pocket and used with one hand . . . “, July 13, 1853

June 22, 1853: “On hearing of the awful affair the neighbors turned out in force to take him . . . it was decided to shoot him if he could not be taken by other means . . . “

Daily Evening Star, Washington, D.C., “On hearing of the awful affair the neighbors turned out in force to take him . . . it was decided to shoot him if he could not be taken by other means . . . “, June 22, 1853

May 26, 1853: “A Gun Department, embracing every variety of single and double barreled Shot Guns and Rifles, Pistols of all makers including the celebrated Derenger’s, Colt’s . . . “

The Planters’ Banner, Hyde & Goodrich Ad; “A Gun Department, embracing every variety of single and double barreled Shot Guns and Rifles, Pistols of all makers including the celebrated Derenger’s, Colt’s . . . “, May 26, 1853

May 26, 1853: "Horace E. Dimick & Co, importers and manufacturers of Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . T.J. Albright, importer, manufacturer, wholesale and retail dealer in Guns, Rifles and Pistols”

Glasgow Weekly Times, “St. Louis Advertisements. . . . Horace E. Dimick & Co, importers and manufacturers of Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . T.J. Albright, importer, manufacturer, wholesale and retail dealer in Guns, Rifles and Pistols”, May 26, 1853

“Respectfully informs his Old Customers, and the public generally . . . he has and will constantly keep on hand not only a good, but BETTER assortment of Rifles, Fowling pieces and Pistols…”

The Jackson Standard, Jackson Rifle Factory Ad; “Respectfully informs his Old Customers, and the public generally . . . he has and will constantly keep on hand not only a good, but BETTER assortment of Rifles, Fowling pieces and Pistols…”, March 31, 1853

“Every Article of the Best Quality. Holiday Presents . . . Pistols And Rifles Of Every Description . . . Established 1838.”

New Orleans Daily Crescent, Guion Ad; “Every Article of the Best Quality. Holiday Presents . . . Pistols And Rifles Of Every Description . . . Established 1838.”, Dec. 24, 1852

“if any person or persons shall fire or cause to be fired within the corporate limits of Woodsfield, any gun, pistol, musket or rifle for sport or amusement”

Woodsfield, Ohio Ordinance, Sec. 2. “if any person or persons shall fire or cause to be fired within the corporate limits of Woodsfield, any gun, pistol, musket or rifle for sport or amusement”, Dec. 22, 1852

“respectfully informs the friends and old customers of his father, and the public in general, that he has just opened a handsome assortment of Double and Single Guns . . . Also, a great variety of Colt’s Five Shooters, Allen’s Revolvers…”

The Daily Dispatch, Thomas H. Tyrer Ad; “respectfully informs the friends and old customers of his father, and the public in general, that he has just opened a handsome assortment of Double and Single Guns . . . Also, a great variety of Colt’s Five Shooters, Allen’s Revolvers…”, Nov. 11, 1852

“Self-Protection . . . has just received, per steamer from Roanoke, a fine assortment of Colt’s and Allen’s Pistols..."

The Daily Dispatch, Jas. Walsh Ad; “Self-Protection . . . has just received, per steamer from Roanoke, a fine assortment of Colt’s and Allen’s Pistols, single self-cocking Pocket and Rifle Barrel Pistols, Nov. 10, 1852

" a large variety of 200 SIX SHOOTING PISTOLS AND RIFLES of the latest and most approved construction, for sale, wholesale and retail, at the lowest market prices.”

New Orleans Daily Crescent, Guion’s Ad; “To City and Country Dealers. The subscriber has received this day, per Wm. Penn, a large variety of 200 SIX SHOOTING PISTOLS AND RIFLES of the latest and most approved construction, for sale, wholesale and retail, at the lowest market prices.”, Oct. 19, 1852

Sept. 14, 1852: “…when the jailor was killed and the jail torn down. Some of the residents turned out, armed, and dispersed the mob..."

Meigs County Telegraph, “…when the jailor was killed and the jail torn down. Some of the residents turned out, armed, and dispersed the mob, after killing and wounding several of them. Rifles and pistols were freely used…”, Sept. 14, 1852

"1852. Baltimore Spring Trade. . . . McComas maker and Importer of Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . Wm. Harris, Gun, Rifle and Pistol Maker..."

Spirit of Jefferson, “1852. Baltimore Spring Trade. . . . McComas maker and Importer of Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . Wm. Harris, Gun, Rifle and Pistol Maker . . . Constantly on hand . . . six-barrel pistols, self-cocking do., Colt’s do. . . .”, May 4, 1852

“Rifles, Shot-guns, Pistols, &c., which being mostly of his own make, he will warrant to be of the best quality.”

The Portsmouth Inquirer, H.D. Zeigler Ad; “Rifles, Shot-guns, Pistols, &c., which being mostly of his own make, he will warrant to be of the best quality.”, April 16, 1852

New-York Daily Tribune, April 7, 1852: “Guns, Rifles, Pistols . . . A constant supply of COLT’S PISTOLS, of all sizes"

New-York Daily Tribune, Francis Tomes & Sons Ad; “Guns, Rifles, Pistols . . . A constant supply of COLT’S PISTOLS, of all sizes, April 7, 1852

Feb. 20, 1852: “Dealers In Watches, Diamonds, Jewelry, Gold Pens, Fine Cutlery, Umbrellas, Canes, Guns, Rifles, Pistols”

New Orleans Daily Crescent, Guinness & Hill Ad; “Dealers In Watches, Diamonds, Jewelry, Gold Pens, Fine Cutlery, Umbrellas, Canes, Guns, Rifles, Pistols”, Feb. 20, 1852

“Pistols, Pistols.–Just received from the manufacturers, a splendid assortment of Colt’s celebrated five-shooters; also, Allen’s five and six barrel Revolving Pistols. I have on hand duelling, self-cocking and rifle pistols..."

The Daily Dispatch, James Walsh Ad; “Pistols, Pistols.–Just received from the manufacturers, a splendid assortment of Colt’s celebrated five-shooters; also, Allen’s five and six barrel Revolving Pistols. I have on hand duelling, self-cocking and rifle pistols, Bowie-Knives, Dirks…”, Jan. 31, 1852

Jan. 1, 1852: “(established thirty-five years,) Importers of . . . Fine Guns, Rifles, Pistols And Revolvers.”

New Orleans Daily Crescent, Hyde & Goodrich Ad; “(established thirty-five years,) Importers of . . . Fine Guns, Rifles, Pistols And Revolvers.”, Jan. 1, 1852

Oct. 30, 1851: “Rifles And Pistols. The undersigned would avail himself of this opportunity of returning thanks to the citizens of Howard and adjoining counties..."

Glasgow Weekly Times, G.H. Oldham Ad; “Rifles And Pistols. The undersigned would avail himself of this opportunity of returning thanks to the citizens of Howard and adjoining counties . . . he would also inform the public that in order to meet the increasing demand…”, Oct. 30, 1851

Aug. 28, 1851: “ALSO–A fine lot of double barrel shot guns, cap primers, percussion caps, revolvers, pistols, &c.”

Glasgow Weekly Times, John Chamberlain Ad; “ALSO–A fine lot of double barrel shot guns, cap primers, percussion caps, revolvers, pistols, &c.”, Aug. 28, 1851

New-York Daily Tribune: “Eley’s Cloth Gun Wadding . . . Eley’s Percussion Caps . . . Francis Tomes & Sons . . . Sprague & Marston, Manufacturers of Guns, Rifles, Rifle Pistols, patent self-cocking Revolving Pistols, wholesale and retail”

New-York Daily Tribune, For Sale & To Let, “Eley’s Cloth Gun Wadding . . . Eley’s Percussion Caps . . . Francis Tomes & Sons . . . Sprague & Marston, Manufacturers of Guns, Rifles, Rifle Pistols, patent self-cocking Revolving Pistols, wholesale and retail”, June 27, 1851

Jan. 11, 1880: “Dealer In Breech And Muzzle-Loading Guns, Rifles, Pistols, and Fixed Ammunition . . . fit Pistol Grips to both Rifles and Shot-guns”

The Daily Intelligencer, W.T. Beard Ad; “Dealer In Breech And Muzzle-Loading Guns, Rifles, Pistols, and Fixed Ammunition . . . fit Pistol Grips to both Rifles and Shot-guns”, Jan. 11, 1880

June 5, 1851: “The subscriber would invite the attention of the public . . . Guns, Pistols, Percussion Caps, Powder Flasks, Dram Bottles, Game and Shot Bags…”

Glasgow Weekly Times, S.C. Jett Ad; “The subscriber would invite the attention of the public . . . Guns, Pistols, Percussion Caps, Powder Flasks, Dram Bottles, Game and Shot Bags…”, June 5, 1851

May 2, 1851: “Manufacturer and Importer of Guns, Rifles, Cane Guns, Pistols, & c. Embracing every article in the shooting line.”

The Burlington Free Press, J. Hapgood Ad; “Manufacturer and Importer of Guns, Rifles, Cane Guns, Pistols, & c. Embracing every article in the shooting line.”, May 2, 1851

April 14, 1851: “The subscriber has on hand and for sale, a general assortment of fine and common double and single barrel shot guns, rifles and yaugers; Colt’s Revolvers..."

Democratic Banner, J.Y. Johnson Ad; “The subscriber has on hand and for sale, a general assortment of fine and common double and single barrel shot guns, rifles and yaugers; Colt’s Revolvers, pocket pistols, powder flasks, &c., at very low prices for cash.”, April 14, 1851

March 25, 1851: "WM. Harris, Gun, Rifle and Pistol Manufacturer . . . Alexander McComas, Gun-maker . . . Always on hand, a large assortment of fine Double and Single Guns, Pistols”

Spirit of Jefferson, “1850. Baltimore Spring Trade! The undernamed Merchants . . . unite in inviting the attention of Country Merchants and Families visiting Baltimore . . . Purchasers are assured that our goods will be sold as low as they can be purchased elsewhere . . . WM. Harris, Gun, Rifle and Pistol Manufacturer . . . Alexander McComas, Gun-maker . . . Always on hand, a large assortment of fine Double and Single Guns, Pistols”, March 25, 1851

March 18, 1851: “Rifles, pistols, and bowie-knives were freely displayed. This did not escape the notice of the jury…”

New-York Daily Tribune, “Rifles, pistols, and bowie-knives were freely displayed. This did not escape the notice of the jury…”, March 18, 1851

Feb. 3, 1851: “Guns. Single and double, English and American . . . also a variety of Rifles. Pistols. English and German pocket, belt and holster; Colt’s and Allen & Thurber’s Revolvers”

New-York Daily Tribune, Wm. H. Cary & Co. Ad; “Guns. Single and double, English and American . . . also a variety of Rifles. Pistols. English and German pocket, belt and holster; Colt’s and Allen & Thurber’s Revolvers”, Feb. 3, 1851

Dec. 19, 1850: “All men who need a gun, Rifle or Yagar or even a brace of good Pistols, will please take notice…”

Glasgow Weekly Times, C.B. Fallenstein Ad; “All men who need a gun, Rifle or Yagar or even a brace of good Pistols, will please take notice…”, Dec. 19, 1850

Nov. 7, 1850: "respectfully invite the attention of the public . . . Double and single barrel guns and rifles; Revolving and rifle pistols”

Glasgow Weekly Times, Edward Mead Ad; “Importer of Fine watches, Jewelry, Brittania and plated ware, guns, pistols, fancy goods . . . respectfully invite the attention of the public . . . Double and single barrel guns and rifles; Revolving and rifle pistols”, Nov. 7, 1850

Sept. 28, 1850: “Wholesale and retail dealer in Hardware, Tools, Cutlery, Guns, & c. . . . single and double rifles, pistols, revolvers, shot, lead, caps; all kinds of shooting implements”

The Ottawa Free Trader, W.F. Dominick Ad; “Wholesale and retail dealer in Hardware, Tools, Cutlery, Guns, & c. . . . single and double rifles, pistols, revolvers, shot, lead, caps; all kinds of shooting implements”, Sept. 28, 1850

Aug. 3, 1850: “Just received per schooner “Coquette’ and for sale . . . Rifles, Duck Guns, Holster Pistols, Pocket Pistols”

The Polynesian, S.H. Williams Ad; “Just received per schooner “Coquette’ and for sale . . . Rifles, Duck Guns, Holster Pistols, Pocket Pistols”, Aug. 3, 1850

July 12, 1850: “Respectfully inform the public that they have a fine assortment of . . . Pen and Pocket Knives, Razors, Scissors, Tweezers; Pistols–Revolvers and single”

The Athens Post, A.O.H.P & W.M. Dehorn Ad; “Respectfully inform the public that they have a fine assortment of . . . Pen and Pocket Knives, Razors, Scissors, Tweezers; Pistols–Revolvers and single”, July 12, 1850

June 22, 1850: “For Sale By The Subscribers–A large and valuable assortment of MERCHANDISE, adapted to this Market . . . muskets, pistols and rifles..."

The Polynesian, Crabb & Spalding Ad; “For Sale By The Subscribers–A large and valuable assortment of MERCHANDISE, adapted to this Market . . . muskets, pistols and rifles, 10 cs cannister powder”, June 22, 1850

June 21, 1850: “Selling Off! No Credit. . . . Perfumery, fine Cutlery, Musical Instruments, Rifles, Guns, Pistols . . . "

The Burlington Free Press, Brinsmaid, Brother & Co. Ad; “Selling Off! No Credit. . . . Perfumery, fine Cutlery, Musical Instruments, Rifles, Guns, Pistols, Fishing Tackle and Sporting Goods generally”, June 21, 1850

June 14, 1850: “Importer and Manufacturer of Double and Single Barrel Shot Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . WHOLESALE AND RATAIL.”

The Athens Post, Edward K. Tryon Ad; “Importer and Manufacturer of Double and Single Barrel Shot Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . WHOLESALE AND RATAIL.”, June 14, 1850

May 21, 1850: “Sale Of Cannon And Small Arms At The Navy Yard . . . will sell at public auction . . . cannon, cannonades and small arms . . . 168 flint muskets; 447 pistols; . . . 37 Colt’s rifles . . . Terms cash”

New-York Daily Tribune, “Sale Of Cannon And Small Arms At The Navy Yard . . . will sell at public auction . . . cannon, cannonades and small arms . . . 168 flint muskets; 447 pistols; . . . 37 Colt’s rifles; 5 Colt’s pistols; 35 bowie knife pistols; 8 rifles; 6 blunderbusses. Terms cash”, May 21, 1850

April 19, 1850: “Iron, Steel, Table and Spring Cutlery, Tanner’s, Smith’s and Carpenter’s Tools, Agricultural Implements, Guns, Pistols, &c., &c.”

The Athens Post, Henry Moore Ad; “Iron, Steel, Table and Spring Cutlery, Tanner’s, Smith’s and Carpenter’s Tools, Agricultural Implements, Guns, Pistols, &c., &c.”, April 19, 1850

Nov. 17, 1849: “New Goods! . . . Rifles, Carbines, pistols, (revolving and holster,) Blunderbusses, air guns, sword sticks, cutlasses"

The Polynesian, Starkey, Janion & Co. Ad; “New Goods! . . . Rifles, Carbines, pistols, (revolving and holster,) Blunderbusses, air guns, sword sticks, cutlasses, Bullet moulds, whips, ploughs”, Nov. 17, 1849

“A large body of Irishmen met in mortal combat, armed with rifles, muskets, pistols, and bludgeons of every description as their weapons”

The Mountain Sentinel, “A large body of Irishmen met in mortal combat, armed with rifles, muskets, pistols, and bludgeons of every description as their weapons”, June 21, 1849

Feb. 3, 1849: “New Goods . . . from Boston . . . Percussion Caps, Dog Collars, Latches, Rifles, Fowling Pieces; Pistols, revolvers and common”

The Polynesian, “New Goods . . . from Boston . . . Percussion Caps, Dog Collars, Latches, Rifles, Fowling Pieces; Pistols, revolvers and common”, Feb. 3, 1849

Jan. 9, 1849: ”Fire-Arms Of Every Description. S.B. has on hand Rifles, Guns, Pistols, &c. &c. of his own manufacture and imported, which he offers for sale at reasonable prices.”

Indiana State Sentinel, Samuel Beck Ad; ”Fire-Arms Of Every Description. S.B. has on hand Rifles, Guns, Pistols, &c. &c. of his own manufacture and imported, which he offers for sale at reasonable prices.”, Jan. 9, 1849

Oct. 19, 1848: “SHOT GUNS from $3 to $15. Smooth Bored RIFLES, a neat article. Second-hand GUNS from 75¢ to $3. . . ."

Vermont Watchman & State Journal, Wooster Sprague Ad; “SHOT GUNS from $3 to $15. Smooth Bored RIFLES, a neat article. Second-hand GUNS from 75¢ to $3. . . . REVOLVER–6 shooters; Rifle, and other pistols.”, Oct. 19, 1848

Sept. 9, 1845: “Rifle, Gun And Pistol Manufacturers . . . Every description of Patent Fire Arms repaired with accuracy”

American Republican And Baltimore Daily Clipper, C.W. Cleveland & Co. Ad; “Rifle, Gun And Pistol Manufacturers . . . Every description of Patent Fire Arms repaired with accuracy”, Sept. 9, 1845

May 1, 1845: New-York Daily Tribune Front Page double whammy...

New-York Daily Tribune, John Ehlers/A.W. Spies & Co. Ads; “Pistols at from $16 to $28 each, in a case with equipments. Great impositions are practiced upon the public in representing and selling the self-cocking and revolving six-barrel Pistol for Colt’s Repeating Pistol”/500 Double Barrel Guns, various prices . . . 2500 pairs of Pistols”, May 1, 1845

“Not less than 400 persons, disguised as Indians, armed with muskets, rifles and pistols, were seen on the mountain to-day..."

New-York Daily Tribune, “Not less than 400 persons, disguised as Indians, armed with muskets, rifles and pistols, were seen on the mountain to-day to attend a sale of property to collect a rent of Sixteen dollars.”, Feb. 21, 1845

New-York Daily Tribune, “Guns, Pistols And Rifles. Patent Six Barrel Self-Revolving And Repeating Pistols.”

New-York Daily Tribune, A.W. Spies & Co. Ad; “Guns, Pistols And Rifles. Patent Six Barrel Self-Revolving And Repeating Pistols.”, Sept. 2, 1844

New-York Daily Tribune, “daily receiving fresh imported Goods at very low prices . . . Guns, Single and Double Barrel. Pistols, Rifles..."

New-York Daily Tribune, John Ruthven Ad; “daily receiving fresh imported Goods at very low prices . . . Guns, Single and Double Barrel. Pistols, Rifles, Caps, Flints, &c.”, March 10, 1844

New-York Daily Tribune: “Also, at 12 o’clock, a large assortment of guns, pistols, rifles, &c., being the stock of a dealer declining the business–among which are 300 pair pocket and belt pistols”

New-York Daily Tribune, “Also, at 12 o’clock, a large assortment of guns, pistols, rifles, &c., being the stock of a dealer declining the business–among which are 300 pair pocket and belt pistols”, Feb. 1, 1844

June 29, 1843: “Rifles, Pistols, Fowling Guns & Gun Trimmings. With a full assortment of general Hard-Ware of good quality, and at low prices.”

Low & Rogers Hard-Ware Ad; “Rifles, Pistols, Fowling Guns & Gun Trimmings. With a full assortment of general Hard-Ware of good quality, and at low prices.”, June 29, 1843

March 24, 1843: “Will be sold at Public Auction, by order of the Probate Court . . . the following personal property:– 8 Jaquith’s Patent Repeating Rifles, well finished. 6 do. do. Pistols”

Vermont Phœnix, “Will be sold at Public Auction, by order of the Probate Court . . . the following personal property:– 8 Jaquith’s Patent Repeating Rifles, well finished. 6 do. do. Pistols”, March 24, 1843

Oct. 4, 1841: “Judge Tenney pulled trigger soon after the parties had been stationed. His ball entered the body of his antagonists..."

Vermont Watchman & State Journal, “Judge Tenney pulled trigger soon after the parties had been stationed. His ball entered the body of his antagonists, a little above the hip, producing immediate death.”, Oct. 4, 1841

Aug. 31, 1841: “The subscriber has just received and wilt sell for ready pay, at the old stand, Rifles, Horse-pistols, Muskets and Bayonets, Pocket-pistols..."

The Middlebury People’s Press, Wm. Bowers Ad; “The subscriber has just received and wilt sell for ready pay, at the old stand, Rifles, Horse-pistols, Muskets and Bayonets, Pocket-pistols, Powder-flasks, Hunting-guns…”, Aug. 31, 1841

Aug. 26, 1841: "where fire arms may be discharged at the places designated, for good and sufficient reasons”

Edgefield, S.C. Ordinance; “And be it further Ordained That this Ordinance shall not be so construed, as to extend the penalty to cases, where fire arms may be discharged at the places designated, for good and sufficient reasons”, Aug. 26, 1841

“not one male among them that knew how to use fire arms, but had his rifle, his pistol, and many others of them their snicker-snee*.”

Boon’s Lick Times, “not one male among them that knew how to use fire arms, but had his rifle, his pistol, and many others of them their snicker-snee*.”, June 5, 1841

March 20, 1841: “Have on hand and for sale on reasonable terms . . . HARDWARE. . . . Pistols, Fowling Pieces, 1 Rifle..."

The Polynesian, E. & H. Grimes Ad; “Have on hand and for sale on reasonable terms . . . HARDWARE. . . . Pistols, Fowling Pieces, 1 Rifle . . . Powder, Shot, Gun Locks”, March 20, 1841

July 21, 1840: "and on the word being given, the Reporter discharged his pistol”

The Caledonian, “The weapons were of a blood thirsty description, pistols–rifle barrels–six inches long. . . . and on the word being given, the Reporter discharged his pistol”, July 21, 1840

“Would inform the inhabitants of Brattleboro and vicinity . . . he will manufacture RIFLES and PISTOLS of all kinds, to order."

Vermont Phœnix, Wm. F. Robinson Ad; “Would inform the inhabitants of Brattleboro and vicinity . . . he will manufacture RIFLES and PISTOLS of all kinds, to order. Also REPAIRING, of all kinds in his line done at short notice”, Feb. 21, 1840

“The Art of Gunning, in all its branches, including Rifle and Pistol Shooting, with ample directions and valuable hints to young gunners."

The Columbia Democrat, “The Art of Gunning, in all its branches, including Rifle and Pistol Shooting, with ample directions and valuable hints to young gunners . . . Forming, in the whole, a valuable Cyclopedia of useful and agreeable knowledge.”, Jan. 26, 1839

“where rifles, guns and pistols are made new, and old ones repaired in good style, on short notice”

Maumee City Express, Jonathan Vickers Ad; “where rifles, guns and pistols are made new, and old ones repaired in good style, on short notice”, Dec. 22, 1838

"Verbum sapientia“

The True American, “The Pioneer gently suggests as a warning to such vagabonds that all the neighboring farmers are abundantly supplied with rifles, pistols, knives, &c. Verbum sapientia“, Dec. 22, 1838

“and offered to surrender, if his pursuers would allow his son to have his arms. They replied that they did not seek his arms, but his person..."

The Burlington Free Press, “and offered to surrender, if his pursuers would allow his son to have his arms. They replied that they did not seek his arms, but his person. . . . he gave to his son a Cochran rifle (12 dischargers) and two large rifle pistols, and then started with B. and J. for Ogdensburgh, still however retaining four small pistols and Bowie knife, but which in the course of a few minutes, he also gave to his son.”, Nov. 30, 1838

May 9, 1838: “respectfully informs the citizens of Raleigh . . . Guns, Pistols and Rifles will be made to order..."

The North-Carolina Standard, John Brunker Gun and White Smithery Ad; “respectfully informs the citizens of Raleigh . . . Guns, Pistols and Rifles will be made to order. Guns stocked and repaired in the best style and warranted”, May 9, 1838

“The subscriber would inform the public that he has constantly on hand large quantities of Muskets, Rifles, Swords, Pistols..."

The Burlington Free Press, Military and Sportsmans Warehouse [N.Y.] Ad; “The subscriber would inform the public that he has constantly on hand large quantities of Muskets, Rifles, Swords, Pistols and Military articles of all descriptions”, Dec. 29, 1837

Feb. 25, 1837: "horse, belt, pocket and duciling pistols; double and single barrelled guns, Bowie knives and dirks . . . are offered at wholesale or retail on accommodating terms”

The True American, B.H. Simmons & co. Ad; “pistol and large powder flasks, shot belts, horse, belt, pocket and duciling pistols; double and single barrelled guns, Bowie knives and dirks . . . are offered at wholesale or retail on accommodating terms”, Feb. 25, 1837

“enables him now to present to his friends and customers, and the public at large . . . Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . they can and will be furnished HERE, on as good terms..."

The North-Carolina Standard, B.B. Smith Ad; “enables him now to present to his friends and customers, and the public at large . . . Guns, Rifles and Pistols . . . they can and will be furnished HERE, on as good terms, and fitted in as good style, as at any other City in the Union”, Jan. 7, 1836

Cassius M. Clay: “My son Warfield, fourteen years old, came up to me crying, and offered me an old pistol, three inch barrel, which I had given him some years before”

KY. State Rep., (and later the American minister to Russia), Cassius M. Clay, “My son Warfield, fourteen years old, came up to me crying, and offered me an old pistol, three inch barrel, which I had given him some years before”, July 21, 1849

It was, (and still is), all about slavery....

Gov. A. G. Brown to Gov. William Smith, [Many claim that the Civil War was not about "slavery". Well, here is proof positive that it was ALL about 'slavery':] “we will feel prepared, having exhausted every fraternal remedy, to become enemies, and defend our rights with those means which God and nature has placed in our hands. . . . we will not submit to be told that slave territory is not to be acquired on this or on the other side of that line. . . . It is common ground on which Whigs and Democrats cordially unite.”, July 9, 1847

Nov. 16, 1846: “CAUTION TO THOSE CARRYING FIREARMS. A young man by the name of Baggs, died in Albany, Ga., from a wound received by the accidental discharge of a pistol, which he carried in his coat pocket.”

American Republican and Baltimore Daily Clipper, “CAUTION TO THOSE CARRYING FIREARMS. A young man by the name of Baggs, died in Albany, Ga., from a wound received by the accidental discharge of a pistol, which he carried in his coat pocket.”, Nov. 16, 1846

“His counsel, Wm. Wall, came into the court room brandishing two large horse pistols..."

Indiana State Sentinel, “His counsel, Wm. Wall, came into the court room brandishing two large horse pistols, declaring in case he was attacked he would use them. His object was to overawe court, witnesses and opposing counsel.”, July 23, 1845

“It was at this meeting that firearms were first used, nearly all of the Natives having provided themselves with weapons of defense”

New-York Daily Tribune, “It was at this meeting that firearms were first used, nearly all of the Natives having provided themselves with weapons of defense”, May 16, 1844

May 29, 1841: “For Travelers, Housekeepers, Captains and Planters they are an indispensable article, as persons, both male and female, can with this Pistol protect their lives and property..."

New-York Tribune, “For Travelers, Housekeepers, Captains and Planters they are an indispensable article, as persons, both male and female, can with this Pistol protect their lives and property if attacked by several persons.”, May 29, 1841

“Cash said he carried weapons under his right as an American citizen to bear arms.”

The Sun, New York, “Cash said he carried weapons under his right as an American citizen to bear arms.”, March 23, 1883

“Self preservation is a paramount law, which a nation, as well as an individual, may find it necessary to invoke.”

  “Self preservation is a paramount law, which a nation, as well as an individual, may find it necessary to invoke.”–United States District Court Judge Humphrey H. Leavitt in the Habeas Corpus case of U.S. Rep. C.L. Vallandigham [The Alleghanian, Ebensburg, PA., Thursday, May 28, 1863. Volume 4. Number 35. Pg. 1] (Humphrey Howe Leavitt, (June 18, 1796 – March 15, 1873), was an Ohio attorney and politician who served as U.S. Representative from Ohio, and in the Ohio House of Representatives. As well as United States District Court judge, appointed by President Andrew Jackson.)

What is this with our governments always wanting our firearms? . . .

Cleveland Morning Leader, “To The Citizens Of Cuyahoga County.–The Military Committee are greatly in want of the following articles: rifles, powder, flasks, powder horns . . . Our patriotic citizens are earnestly requested to furnish the above articles”, Sept. 12, 1862

Yeah, just try doing that now....

Evening Star, Washington, D.C., “Dupont’s Gunpowder, For sale at manufacturers prices by John J. Bogue, Georgetown, D.C., Sole Agency for the District of Columbia . . . delivered free to all parts of the District”, Oct. 3, 1861

   That one is priceless.

"He calls upon all friends of the Union and good citizens to form Home Guards for the protection of the Union, arming and drilling themselves"

The Daily Green Mountain Freeman, “He calls upon all friends of the Union and good citizens to form Home Guards for the protection of the Union, arming and drilling themselves and he will be pleased to have them instructed”, June 19, 1861

Jan. 16, 1857: “Rifle Guns, MADE to order, and Repairing of all kinds done at WRIGHT’S”

Cooper’s Clarksburg Register, Wright’s Ad; “Rifle Guns, MADE to order, and Repairing of all kinds done at WRIGHT’S”, Jan. 16, 1857

“I said that he had no right to take a man’s rifle, that he had no right to enter a man’s house, except he had a search warrant, or to take a rifle there unless it was stolen"

Taken before the Congressional Committee: Col. John A. Perry: “I said that he had no right to take a man’s rifle, that he had no right to enter a man’s house, except he had a search warrant, or to take a rifle there unless it was stolen . . . my reply was that if any man entered my house to take my rifle I had a perfect right to shoot him and he had no redress”, July 25, 1856

One of the main pertinent quotations from the above follows:

    "I said that he had no right to take a man’s rifle, that he had no right to enter a man’s house, except he had a search warrant or to take a rifle there unless it was stolen and described in his search warrant; he agreed to all this: I then told him I had been asked in council by the citizens of Lawrence my legal opinion of his right to take men’s rifles, and my reply was that if any man entered my house to take my rifle I had a perfect right to shoot him and he had no redress, even though it was Mr. [U.S. Marshal] Donaldson himself; I asked him if that was so; he laughed and said ‘ Yes.” Some one spoke up and said ”That’s cool;” I told the [U.S.] Marshal that I had given my opinion and my advice, and I wanted to know if I was right; he said I was..."--Col. John A. Perry, testimony taken before the [U.S.] Congressional Committee, June 9, 1856. [New-York Daily Tribune, New-York, Friday, July 25, 1856. Vol. XVI.......No. 4,763. Pg. 6]

“Rev. Theodore Parker and the very Rev. Henry Ward Beecher . . . their labors in the collection of rifles for the defense of “freedom in Kansas””

The Athens Post, “Rev. Theodore Parker and the very Rev. Henry Ward Beecher . . . their labors in the collection of rifles for the defense of “freedom in Kansas””, April 18, 1856

"they have the undoubted right to prepare for their own defense. They have a right to buy Sharp’s rifles or any other rifles”

The Kansas Herald Of Freedom, “The Cincinnati Columbian: . . . they have the undoubted right to prepare for their own defense. They have a right to buy Sharp’s rifles or any other rifles”, March 22, 1856

"save those which his own right hand, grasping one of Sharp’s rifles, can secure to him.”

New-York Daily Tribune, “who have ruthlessly seized the rights of the honest settler, and left him as destitute as the Carolina negro, of every political prerogative, save those which his own right hand, grasping one of Sharp’s rifles, can secure to him.”, March 6, 1856

“They had set their stakes and made their homes there, and were bound to defend them against the institution of slavery. Sharpe’s rifles cost about $45 each..."

Weekly Indiana State Sentinel, “They had set their stakes and made their homes there, and were bound to defend them against the institution of slavery. Sharpe’s rifles cost about $45 each, and by them the question must now be settled.”, Feb. 14, 1856

“and that they and their children are to be starved out by competition in their own trades and fields with men bought at auction, they will stand to their rights, and if need be to Sharp’s rifles.”

New-York Daily Tribune, “and that they and their children are to be starved out by competition in their own trades and fields with men bought at auction, they will stand to their rights, and if need be to Sharp’s rifles.” – [One of the main causes of the American Civil War - a MUST READ article.], Jan. 18, 1856

Aug. 31, 1855: “Rifles. A few more Double Barreled RIFLES and SHOT-GUNS just received, and selling CHEAP”

Fremont Journal, Leppelman’s Ad; “Rifles. A few more Double Barreled RIFLES and SHOT-GUNS just received, and selling CHEAP”, Aug. 31, 1855

“A RIFLE to be shot for on Easter Monday . . . Three shots 100 yards with a rest, string measure, the nearest lead takes the Rifle.”

The Ohio Democrat And Dover Advertiser, “A RIFLE to be shot for on Easter Monday . . . Three shots 100 yards with a rest, string measure, the nearest lead takes the Rifle.”, April 17, 1840

“by disarming private citizens, and depriving those whom he chooses to suspect of the constitutionally guaranteed right of having weapons and fire-arms for their defence.”

Weekly Standard, “by disarming private citizens, and depriving those whom he chooses to suspect of the constitutionally guaranteed right of having weapons and fire-arms for their defence.”, April 6, 1864

“Every discreet adult has the right to the possession of fire-arms . . ."

The News-Herald, “Every discreet adult has the right to the possession of fire-arms . . . even a single saloon is far more dangerous to the life, health and happiness of the community than a magazine of powder”, Feb. 28, 1889

“that will virtually place the people at the mercy of whatever party may be in power, making it the privilege of said party to deprive citizens of the right to have fire-arms”

Public Ledger, “that will virtually place the people at the mercy of whatever party may be in power, making it the privilege of said party to deprive citizens of the right to have fire-arms”, April 23, 1879

“ready to resent what they consider base intrusion upon their rights; with firearms as plenty as men and numbers of the men walking arsenals”

The Anaconda Standard, “ready to resent what they consider base intrusion upon their rights; with firearms as plenty as men and numbers of the men walking arsenals”, Nov. 20, 1896

"It sometimes seems trite to speak of warning boys against such things…”

The Colfax Chronicle, “If they must have guns, they should be cautioned against the careless use of them. It sometimes seems trite to speak of warning boys against such things…”, March 4, 1911

"Generations of Live, wide-awake American boys", you say?

Shiner Gazette, Stevens Arms Ad; “Generations of live, wide-awake American boys have obtained the right kind of FIREARMS EDUCATION by being equipped with the unerring, time-honored STEVENS”, Feb. 11, 1909

“Look For The Red Ball Trade Mark “Modern” Firearms & Ammunition for Shooting Right”

The Mountain Advocate, Remington UMC Ad; “Look For The Red Ball Trade Mark “Modern” Firearms & Ammunition for Shooting Right”, June 13, 1919

“there will be no carnival of firearms and explosives on the Fourth of July . . . use of firearms and explosives would inevitably result in a series of disasters”

St. Louis Mayor Ziegenhein, “there will be no carnival of firearms and explosives on the Fourth of July . . . use of firearms and explosives would inevitably result in a series of disasters”, June 27, 1900

“So, dear readers, if you had a gun or a pistol that the U.S. uses in their service it is lawful for you to have the same in your house.”

Sequachee Valley News, “So, dear readers, if you had a gun or a pistol that the U.S. uses in their service it is lawful for you to have the same in your house.”, Dec. 7, 1905

"Stevens Firearms are made right, look right, and for their particular purposes, are positively unsurpassed."

The Williams News, Stevens Firearms Ad; "Stevens Firearms are made right, look right, and for their particular purposes, are positively unsurpassed.", March 19, 1904

This article starts out quite nicely, then quickly descends into the bowels of hell…

The [extraordinarily treasonous] Morning Tulsa Daily World, This article starts out quite nicely, then quickly descends into the bowels of hell…, June 6, 1921

“and the man who cannot hit a dog at close quarters had better keep his pistol in his pocket”

Daily Press, “and the man who cannot hit a dog at close quarters had better keep his pistol in his pocket”, April 13, 1905

"You can "hit the mark" most every time if you use the right kind of firearms. . . ."

The Salt Lake Tribune, "You can "hit the mark" most every time if you use the right kind of firearms. The bigger the target the better your chance.", April 2, 1910

1789: "The farmers, with arms in their hands, ran to the place of rendezvous from considerable distances.”

The History of the American Revolution, “those inhabitants, who are not provided, be requested to furnish themselves forthwith with arms. . . . The farmers, with arms in their hands, ran to the place of rendezvous from considerable distances.”, 1789

“This is but the conservative right to self-defence–a right possessed by individuals, independent of all constitutions, and in defiance of all human laws...."

  “This is but the conservative right to self-defence–a right possessed by individuals, independent of all constitutions, and in defiance of all human laws. Self-Defence is “the first law of nature, and of nature’s God;” and I hold, sir, that it is not less the right and duty of individuals, assembled for lawful public objects. and for the performance of public duties, than of every private citizen, to effectuate those objects, and to defend themselves against every aggressor.”–Mr. Beardsley, of New York, U.S. House of Representatives, May 9, 1832 [Register of Debates, House of Representatives, 22nd Congress, 1st Session Part II. Of Vol. VIII. Washington: Printed And Published By Gales & Seaton. 1833. Pg. 2910]

"giving children under the age limit the right to carry firearms if given permission by parent or guardian.”

The Bennington Evening Banner, “The bill differs from the present law in asmuch as it strikes out that section giving children under the age limit the right to carry firearms if given permission by parent or guardian.”, Jan. 23, 1915

March 28, 1878: “Dealer In Firearms, Ammunition, Fishing Tackle, & c. Sharps and Winchester Rifles a Specialty.”

Bismarck Tri-Weekly Tribune, O.H. Beal Ad; “Dealer In Firearms, Ammunition, Fishing Tackle, & c. Sharps and Winchester Rifles a Specialty.”, March 28, 1878

“He had the right of selling firearms to loyal people in Kentucky . . . He kept a few pistols in his office to sell or to give to his particular friends”

Bismarck Tri-Weekly Tribune, “He had the right of selling firearms to loyal people in Kentucky . . . He kept a few pistols in his office to sell or to give to his particular friends”, March 28, 1878

"Let them be maintained at every hazard and sacrifice. . . . The “tyrant’s plea” of necessity, is false.”

U.S. Rep. C.L. Vallandigham, “The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. . . . These, thus repeated and multiplied over and over again, are the Magna Charta of American freemen. They constitute the Body of American Liberties. . . . Let them be maintained at every hazard and sacrifice. . . . The “tyrant’s plea” of necessity, is false.” – A MUST READ SPEECH, especially when it concerns ‘martial law’, Aug. 2, 1862

Here's an interesting historical discovery....

Washington [D.C.] Mayor James H. Blake: “Citizens Of Washington. . . . every man exempt from military duty, who is able to carry a musket . . . Such as have no arms and ammunition, will be furnished”, Aug. 20, 1814

   And following is a quote excerpted from the title page of the publication the above was found in:
 

   The common and continual mischiefs of the spirit of party are sufficient to make it the interest and duty of a wise people to discourage and restrain it.--Washington.

“That if any person or persons whomsoever, shall fire or discharge any gun, pistol . . . "

Laws Of The State Of New-York, “That if any person or persons whomsoever, shall fire or discharge any gun, pistol, rocket, squib or other fire-work within a quarter of a mile of any building”, April 22, 1785

"That if any person shall fire or shoot off any gun or pistol in the night time after dark and before day light, without necessity..."

State Of South-Carolina,”That if any person shall fire or shoot off any gun or pistol in the night time after dark and before day light, without necessity, every such person shall forfeit the sum of . . .”, 1740

The Early Legal Definition of Martial Law, and its limitations, in American Courts . . .

The Early Legal Definition of Martial Law, and its limitations, in American Courts, “It is in that sense alone that the vague expression of martial law ought to be understood among us. To give it any larger extent would be trampling upon the constitution and laws of our country.”, 1815

Yeah, and that's why they want us disarmed...

  “The principle upon which we professed to act, and really did act, was, that whenever a prince neglects or abandons his duty as the protector and guardian of his subjects–whenever he endeavours, by the terror of his power, the weight of his authority, or the force of arms, to compel them to a surrender of their essential privileges, instead of protecting them in the exercise of their immunities, a people have a right, by their own strength, to protect these rights, and to adopt every measure which may be necessary to effect this purpose. This is the fundamental principle of American law; it lays at the foundation of our government; it is the corner-stone of our political existence and sovereignty; and on this ground were our constitution and the congressional declaration of independence founded.”–Chief Justice Kinsey, Supreme Court Of Judicature Of The State Of New-Jersey, Den v. Brown. Nov. 1799. [Reports Of Cases Argued And Determined In The Supreme Court Of Judicature Of The State Of New-Jersey. By William Halsted, Jun. Reporter. Volume II. Trenton: Printed By Joseph Justice. 1824. Pg. 334]

"and a provision of that kind is entirely unconstitutional. . . . He seriously doubted if the passage of laws on this subject will accomplish much good."

Senator Mower, "In the first place it absolutely forbids a citizen carrying a pistol, whether concealed or not, and a provision of that kind is entirely unconstitutional. . . . He seriously doubted if the passage of laws on this subject will accomplish much good.", Feb. 15, 1901

Three that stood up against the majority for our right....

Mr. Spears, Mr. Fraser and Mr. Dorroh,”He refuted the charge that nobody but cowards carry pistols. Brave men carry them to protect their persons. As a magistrate, he had been forced to sentence people for carrying concealed weapons, and he bad always done so reluctantly.”, Jan. 30, 1901

“The civil rights which Americans hold so dear . . . the right to bear arms”

The Intermountain Catholic, “The civil rights which Americans hold so dear, of free speech and a free press, of trial by a jury of their peers, of peaceful assemblage to protest against iniquity, and the right to bear arms”, Sept. 1, 1900

"all those rights which the constitution guards so jealously . . ."

President McKinley & U.S. Congress, “the right to bear arms . . . all those rights which the constitution guards so jealously . . . The Russian czar exercises no more despotic powers than are here claimed by this “servant of a sovereign people.”, April 17, 1900

"Now what would be their rights under the Constitution? Only those primary rights of person and property that are a necessary incident to freedom. . . . the right to bear arms"

U.S. Rep. Crumpacker, “Now what would be their rights under the Constitution? Only those primary rights of person and property that are a necessary incident to freedom. . . . the right to bear arms”, April 12, 1900

"The following powers are denied to both Congress and the President: . . ."

U.S. Senator Saulsbury, "The following powers are denied to both Congress and the President: . . . 10. To infringe the people's right to keep and bear arms.", Feb. 10, 1862

"to secure persons from unreasonable seizure or search; to secure the right of the people to bear arms for their defense"

Congressional - House: "Mr. Vallandigham gave notice of bills . . . to secure persons from unreasonable seizure or search; to secure the right of the people to bear arms for their defense", June 17, 1861

"tyrannical and unconstitutional laws have been enacted and enforced; the right of the people to keep and bear arms has been infringed"

Judge [and U.S. Rep.] William D. Kelley, "tyrannical and unconstitutional laws have been enacted and enforced; the right of the people to keep and bear arms has been infringed", March 25, 1857

"The Second Declaration of Independence . . . The rights of the people to keep and bear arms have been infringed"

Carroll Free Press, "The Second Declaration of Independence . . . The rights of the people to keep and bear arms have been infringed", July 31, 1856

"Generations of live, wide-awake American boys have obtained the right kind of Firearms Education..."

The Gold Leaf, Stevens Firearms Ad; "Generations of live, wide-awake American boys have obtained the right kind of Firearms Education by being equipped with the unerring, time-honored Stevens", Dec. 3, 1908

"That no person shall sell, loan or furnish any minor below the age of 16 years any gun, pistol, fowling piece or other firearms..."

Albuquerque Evening Citizen, Proposed Ordinance; "That no person shall sell, loan or furnish any minor below the age of 16 years any gun, pistol, fowling piece or other firearms within the city limits", March 9, 1907

"to sell any revolver or other small firearms to any person without first obtaining the signature of the purchaser and his address..."

The Spokane Press, Ordinance Introduced; "it shall be unlawful for any merchant or second hand dealer to sell any revolver or other small firearms to any person without first obtaining the signature of the purchaser and his address...", Dec. 3, 1908

“One point about this pistol which ought to commend it to the public . . . when carried in one’s pocket.”

The Arizona Republican, Browning Automatic Pocket Pistol; “One point about this pistol which ought to commend it to the public is its smooth exterior, and the absence of any of those projections so prominent in revolvers, which entail a constant wear and tear on the clothing when carried in one’s pocket.”, Aug. 31, 1903

"The act of July 11, 1916, prohibits the use of a gun, cannon, revolver or other explosive devices at any wedding serenade in this commonwealth."

Governor Brumbaugh, "The act of July 11, 1916, prohibits the use of a gun, cannon, revolver or other explosive devices at any wedding serenade in this commonwealth.", June 6, 1918

“These were called freemen, and they alone were permitted to take arms..."

A History of Slavery, and Its Abolition, “These were called freemen, and they alone were permitted to take arms, so that the names of a soldier and a freeman were synonymous.”, 1839

"nor of his or their arms or utensils of household, necessary for upholding of life"

The Charters and General Laws of the Colony and Province of Massachusetts Bay, "nor of his or their arms or utensils of household, necessary for upholding of life, nor of bedding or apparel necessary for him or themselves or family", 1645, 1647, 1693, 1730, 1776

Funny how we never here about this little piece of history....

Encyclopædia Americana, “the Greeks were disarmed in November, 1821, and almost all the inhabitants of Larnica, with the archbishop and other prelates, murdered”, 1835

   While the people that DIDN'T give up their arms:

"But the peasants in the mountains, and the inhabitants of the small island Sphakia, called the Suliots of Candia, refused to give up their arms, collected, and drove the Turks back again into the towns."

Interesting how that works, ISN'T IT?

“he, she, or they, may lawfully seize such gun or offensive weapon, and convert the same to his, her, or their, own use”

A Digest Of The Laws of South-Carolina, “he, she, or they, may lawfully seize such gun or offensive weapon, and convert the same to his, her, or their, own use”, 1740/1819

   Let's see now, shall we? "He, she, or they" . . . Well that eliminates the old, tired and errant 'right of the militia' theory quite nicely, now doesn't it? That is, unless you are aware of female militia members back in 1740 or 1819. But even if that were the case. There's another law posted on the linked page that grinds any [lame and fallacious] argument into powder.

   Then there's this little quote from Blackstone, (that the author used on the title page):

"Misera est servitus, ubi jus est vagum, aut incognitum."

["Wretched is the thraldom where the law is either uncertain or unknown."--William Blackstone: Article 1, Section 8, Clause 16, Commentaries 1:401--4]

"it was in no wise uncommon in this country for persons to carry arms, where they had the right so to do: he might have produced Tucker's Blackstone in his favor"

The Trial of Col. Aaron Burr, “it was in no wise uncommon in this country for persons to carry arms, where they had the right so to do: he might have produced Tucker’s Blackstone in his favor”, 1807

   This article has been updated and expanded. And has proven to be quite interesting. Especially when it comes to who was present and had participated at the trial. This case alone was evidence enough that our right to arms has always been an individual one.

"And in cases in which the writ requires the sheriff to take bail, and the defendant shall use arms or threats to keep off such sheriff"

A Digest of the Statutes Laws of Kentucky, "And in cases in which the writ requires the sheriff to take bail, and the defendant shall use arms or threats to keep off such sheriff", 1834

“nor of his or their Arms, or Utensils of Household necessary for upholding of Life”

Acts And Laws, Passed by the General Court or Assembly of His Majesties Province Of New-Hampshire, “nor of his or their Arms, or Utensils of Household necessary for upholding of Life”, 1726

"It is the only government in the world that dares to put arms freely into the hands of all its citizens."

A History of the United States, "It is the only government in the world that dares to put arms freely into the hands of all its citizens.", 1839

Chief Justice Brickell; “It is a legal, constitutional right to bear arms..."

Miller v. The State, Chief Justice Brickell; “It is a legal, constitutional right to bear arms. . . . he had the right to arm himself for defense.”, Dec. Term 1875

That sure beats the other Miller [mis]decision...

Yellowstone Park; "and any person may carry firearms"

Yellowstone Park; "The paths, trails and roads through the great reservation are free to all, and any person may carry firearms", April 4, 1897

“No gentleman familiar with the use of the gun or pistol, and who knows the freaks of glancing balls..."

Daily Globe, “No gentleman familiar with the use of the gun or pistol, and who knows the freaks of glancing balls, will endanger the lives of others”, Aug. 23, 1881

   Yes, I must admit that I do know some "freaks". However, my "balls" have never been caught "glancing"!

June 23, 1856: "Colt’s, Allen’s Marston’s, and Warner’s Revolvers and a great variety of pistols too numerous to mention.”

Wheeling Daily Intelligencer, T. Cartwright’s Cutlery, Variety and Music Store Ad; “Revolvers! Firearms! . . . Colt’s, Allen’s Marston’s, and Warner’s Revolvers and a great variety of pistols too numerous to mention.”, June 23, 1856

As I was saying, [see post below this one...]

The Kansas City Journal, “There will be no more discharging of firearms at the feet of individuals…”, July 4, 1899

"individuals were in the habit of discharging firearms..." [without thinking]

Sacramento Daily Record-Union, “A Narrow Escape From Death. . . individuals were in the habit of discharging firearms in the southern and eastern suburbs of the city”, Jan. 22, 1886

   It is 'accidents' like the one written about in the above article. That is partially responsible for our right being diminished....

"to grant permits to such persons, as in their judgment, are entitled to them, to retain private arms for sporting purposes"

The Norfolk Post, "authorized to grant permits to such persons, as in their judgment, are entitled to them, to retain private arms for sporting purposes", Sept. 12, 1865

   "Sporting purposes" . . . now where have I heard THAT before? . . . .

   Oh yeah, the Nazi's used it in their law of 1938. And the [treasonous] democrats used it in the Constitutionally perverse 1968 Gun Control Act.

   And this perverse 'general' having made this proclamation despite the fact that THAT is precisely what the 2nd Amendment was intended to prevent. 

"Provided, a person may shoot firearms on his own premises..."

Town of Walhalla, South Carolina Ordinances;"Provided, a person may shoot firearms on his own premises for the bona fide purpose of protecting his property from damage", Dec. 16, 1903

"as there is a question of law as to their right to have firearms in their possession"

Treason in Utah, "The deputy sheriffs did not take the names of any of the owners of the houses in which the arms were found, as there is a question of law as to their right to have firearms in their possession", July 26, 1908

Here's some old responsible journalism....

The Charleston Daily News, “We indulge the hope that this serious calamity may be sufficient warning of the folly of allowing boys to play with firearms.”, Feb. 4, 1867

"Every one carries large sized pistols…”

Arizona Weekly Citizen, “Much complaint is made by citizens about the reckless use of firearms. Every one carries large sized pistols…”, Jan. 3, 1885

" . . . All persons shall have a right to keep and bear arms for their defense"

American Constitutions, "Right of Bearing Arms . . . . All persons shall have a right to keep and bear arms for their defense", 1872

Guess it can't be claimed that we're chips off the old block, can it? . . .

Encyclopaedia Americana "the people of Boston and neighborhood appeared in arms, seized the governor. . .", April 18, 1689

We need more of the following example set presently....

[Pg. 138]

September 19. [1775]

 Affair in Duchess County.

   Last Saturday night, in Duchess County, New York, James Smith, Esq. a judge of the Court of Common Pleas for that county, was very handsomely tarred and feathered, for acting in open contempt of the resolves of the county committee, as was Coen Smith, of the same place, for the like behavior. They were carted five or six miles into the country. The judge undertook to sue for, and recover the arms taken from the Tories[*] by order of said committee, and actually committed one of the committee, who assisted at disarming the Tories, which enraged the people so much, that they rose and rescued the prisoner, and poured out their resentment on this villanous retailer of the law.[3]

 [*] “Tories” were American colonists who supported the British side during the American Revolution.

 [3] Upcott, iv. 327

 [Diary of the American Revolution. From Newspapers and Original Documents. By Frank Moore. Vol. I. New York: Charles Scribner, Grand Street. London: Sampson Low, Son & Company. MDCCCLX.]

"Many of them had arms, and those who were unprovided for, collected arms and ammunition with all possible despatch."

Diary of the American Revolution, "Many of them had arms, and those who were unprovided for, collected arms and ammunition with all possible despatch.", March 14, 1775

”The Rev. Mr. Payson . . . at the head of a party of his own parish . . . he has taken up arms in defence of those rights, civil and religious, which cost their forefathers so dearly...

 The following has just been added, (among quite a few other recent associated  discoveries), on the Biblical Quotes on Arms and Defense page.

April 19. [1775]

[Pg. 65]

…During this time an express was sent to General Gage, who despatched a reinforcement under the command of Earl Percy, with two field-pieces. Upon the arrival of this reinforcement at Lexington, just as the retreating party had reached there, they made a stand, picking up their dead, took all the carriages they could find, and put their wounded thereon. Others of them–to their eternal disgrace be it spoken–were robbing and setting houses on fire, and discharging their cannon at the meeting house.

[Pg. 66]

   While this was transacting a party of the militia at Menotomy, [1] attacked a party of twelve of the enemy, who were carrying stores and provisions, killed one of them and took possession of their arms and stores, without any loss.

[1] This party was led by the Rev. Phillips Payson, D.D.,* to whom the following extract refers:–”The Rev. Mr. Payson, of Chelsea, in Massachusetts Bay, a mild, thoughtful, sensible man, at the head of a party of his own parish, attacked a party of the regulars, killed some and took the rest prisoners. This gentleman has been hitherto on the side of government, but oppression having got to that pitch beyond which even a wise man cannot bear, he has taken up arms in defence of those rights, civil and religious, which cost their forefathers so dearly. The cruelty of the King’s troops, in some instances, I wish to disbelieve. They entered one house in Lexington where were two old men, one a deacon of the church, who was bed-ridden, and another not able to walk, who was sitting in his chair; both these they stabbed and killed on the spot, as well as an innocent child running out of the house.”–Pennsylvania Journal, August 2.

* Dr. Payson was born at Walpole, Massachusetts, on the 18th of January, 1736. He graduated at Harvard College in 1754 and from the time of his ordination (three years after) until his death, he was constantly and jealously engaged in the service of the church. During the Revolution, he boldly advocated the cause of the Colonists. He died January 11, 1801.

[Diary of the American Revolution. From Newspapers and Original Documents. By Frank Moore. Vol. I. New York: Charles Scribner, Grand Street. London: Sampson Low, Son & Company. MDCCCLX.]

The Journals Of Each Provincial Congress Of Massachusetts, "Whereas, many able-bodied men, who were inhabitants of the sea-port towns of the colony, have removed their families into the country, and have themselves left said towns, and carried with them their arms and ammunition", July 12, 1775