Summary

Pair of percussion duelling pistols, converted from flintlock, in case. Cal. 28 bore (.545); muzzle loading rifled (10 grooves) with 9 1/8 in. (232 mm) octagonal barrel; side lock and hammer; and set trigger. In fitted oak case lined with green baize, without accessories.

The pistols bear the silver monogram 'Luceo non uro over a burning mount' (I shine but do not burn), with McKenzie or Mackenzie crest, and are stamped 'Griffin & Tow'. Silver hallmarks date the pistols to 1808.

Records indicate the pistols were owned by Alexander Mclean Hunter & his cousin Arundel Hunter, settlers on Upper Goulburn, 1839.

The Hunter family (including six sons) played a significant role in opening up the interior of Port Phillip. Alexander migrated to Port Phillip at the age of 18. In 1844 he undertook an expedition with his brother James from Mansfield southwards through the Great Dividing Range to Gippsland, then later that year took out a licence for Tarwin Meadows station at Anderson's Inlet in Gippsland. He next served in the mounted police, and in 1853 became their studmaster. His interest in horses led to years as honorary secretary of the Melbourne Turf Club, which he resigned on moving to South Africa about 1864. There he grew sugar-cane for six years before returning to settle in Victoria again, this time at Balla Balla station near Cranbourne, in 1872. He married in 1850 Eliza Anne Bostock of Hobart Town, with whom he had five children. He died at sea in 1892 while returning from a visit to Scotland.

Physical Description

Two pistols in case. Muzzle loading rifled (10 grooves), octagonal barrel 9 1/8 in. (232 mm.) long, v notch backsight, blade foresight o. a. length 15 1/4 in. (387 mm.). Side lock & hammer, oval silver trigger guard with acorn extension, set trigger. Wooden stock extends half- way along barrel, horn tipped, silver side plate & butt cap. Silver monogram plate bears inscription and McKenzie or Mackenzie crest. Brass tipped wooden ramrod. Fitted oak case lined with green baize, heavily deteriorated.

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