One of six manufacturers of Charles H. Ballard's patented firearms designs, circa 1861-1863. Dwight, Chapin & Co. was established in Bridgeport, Connecticut as a subcontractor making appendages for the Springfield rifle. George Dwight was the last civilian superintendent of the Springfield Armory, and founded the company with Henry A. Chapin. From 1862-1866, the sole agents for Ballard rifles was the New York firm of Merwin & Bray.
On Aug. 15, 1862 the Kentucky Military Board ordered 1,250 Ballard carbines in .44 cal. On Oct. 31, 1862, Merwin & Bray secured a contract for 2,000 Ballard rifles. On March 20, 1863, Dwight, Chapin & Co. sent a sample Ballard rifle and carbine to the U.S. Ordnance Dept. Both were rejected because the breechblocks did not work "freely". After two extensions, the company was unable to fill the order, and the government canceled the contract.
Inability to meet delivery specifications of the contract caused the business to fail after approximately 125 carbines were completed. On September 24, 1863, Dwight, Chapin & Co. declared bankruptcy. Remaining parts were moved to Ball & Williams for completion and assembly.
For information on additionaly Ballard models, please refer to listings under Ballard, Charles Henry, and Variants located in the B section. Please also refer to the Ball & Williams and Merwin & Bray sections for more information.
Located in Bridgeport, CT, circa late 1861-1863.
