Augusta County: J. D. Imboden to J. W. Stribling,
January 7, 1860
Summary:
J. D. Imboden discusses his coversation with Governor Henry Wise about arming
Virginia milita units with "Smith's Patent Breech Loading Rifle."
Jany 7/60
Staunton
J. W. Stribling Esq
Balto:
Dear
Sir!
When I was in Richmond in December, I saw a specimen of "Smith's Patent Breech Loading Rifle" at Gov. Wises office, and was so much pleased with it, that I requested the Governor to arm my Company with it. He promised to do so provided the Legislature placed means at his disposal for the purchase of arms before his term of office expired. They failed to do so--whether Gov. Letcher will carry out Gov. Wises liberal intentions I do not know. I think it is the best arm for Calvary and Artillery I ever saw. I compared it with "Maynards," "Colts Repeating Rife," the "Minnie Musket," & "Halls Carbine," and I deem it vastly superior to any of them
We will have a meeting of officers of 9 volunteer Companies, at my office next
Saturday to form a Regiment. There are 3 Cavalry Companies & my own
Artillery in the Number, all to be armed this winter. I want them to adopt
Smiths Rifle. But as it is not known here, I wish you to send me a specimen by
Express at my Cost & Charges, state the price of it so that if I choose
I may keep it for myself & remit you the amount; if I conclude not to
keep it, I will return it safe & sound by Express to you in a week or
two. Send me a few Cartridge Cases & Balls to
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exhibit.
My Object is to get the officers to petition the Legislature to procure us this weapon.
Yours truly
J. D. Imboden
