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  • /Lot 4020

Lot 4020:Engraved Silver Plated Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Steer Head Carved Grip Inscribed to 101 Ranch Elephant Trainer

October 6th, 2024|Bedford, TX
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  • /Lot 4020

Lot 4020:Engraved Silver Plated Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Steer Head Carved Grip Inscribed to 101 Ranch Elephant Trainer

October 6th, 2024|Bedford, TX
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Engraved Silver Plated Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Steer Head Carved Grip Inscribed to 101 Ranch Elephant Trainer

Manufactured in 1883 and subsequently custom engraved and inscribed. Back strap shoulder inscribed "101" in reference to the famed 101 Ranch and down the back strap is inscribed with the name "Zelma Zimmerman." Zimmerman trained and performed with elephants used in the 101 Ranch's Wild West show. As explained in a 1930 newspaper article, "Until six years ago, comely Zelma did not know much about elephants except what she had seen in the zoos, but when she came out to Oklahoma to take a job in the cafe on the Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch, she fell in love with the elephants then wintering on the ranch and it did not take much persuasion to get Zelma to try her luck with the 'bulls.' Now she is their acknowledge 'boss' and for no one the elephants will do better and faster work than for Zelma." The right side of the grip has a relief carved steer head. Provenance: The Gateway Collection

ConditionFine as period embellished with some scattered pitting and crisp engraving and carving. Mechanically needs adjustment, as it slightly out of time. An unusual piece of 101 Ranch history!
Details
ManufacturerColt
ModelSingle Action Army
TypeRevolver
Serial number
ClassAntique
Caliber / Gauge45 Long Colt
Barrel7 1/2 inch round
Finishsilver
Gripsmooth
Bore conditionGood - Some light pitting or frosted appearance

Item LocationBedford, TX
Views2537
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