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The Springfield Armory Alliance is holding its second Firearms Seminar, May 13, starting 9:30 AM (open at 9:15 AM). Four noted firearm historians are speaking (Roy Jinks, Smith&Wesson in WWI; William H. D. Goddard, Colt M1911 pistol development; Luke Mercaldo and Adam Firestone, on Allied rifle contracts in America including Winchester, Westinghouse, Remington, Savage, Colt, Hopkins & Allen; Alex MacKenzie, Springfield Armory Museum Curator will speak on Springfield Armory and the Ordnance Department. A three hour program, 15.00 donation requested, members of the Alliance free, once may join at the door. Made possible by a grant from Smith & Wesson Corp.
That sounds like an awesome seminar. I have added it to my calendar. Thanks for the heads-up!
Regards,
WACA Life Member #6284 - Specializing in Pre-64 Winchester .22 Rimfire
I already booked my flights and hotel, anyone else from WACA planning to attend?
Regards,
WACA Life Member #6284 - Specializing in Pre-64 Winchester .22 Rimfire
The Springfield Armory Alliance seminar was well worth the trip! James, thanks for posting the info!
Roy Jinks spoke about the large frame S&W revolvers and specifically the Model 1917.
Luke Mercaldo and Adam Firestone (Luke is in the 2 photos) touched on the contract rifles and yes, they covered the Winchester Model 1894 and of course the 1895 Russian contract rifles.
William H. D. Goddard (in the photo above) gave a very interesting presentation on the development of the 1911 and I was fortunate to have him sign a copy of his book for me afterward. Museum Curator Alex MacKenzie also shared some fascinating photos from the Springfield Armory archives.
And of course the Springfield Armory Museum tour was outstanding. For those that have never been, there are a few Winchesters scattered throughout the collection. Here is a Winchester 1866 seemingly out of place next to a Winchester M1 Carbine.
Here is Winchester Model 1917, serial number 1.
The Springfield Armory is well worth the visit at any time and the Alliance seminar was just icing on the cake. There are so many other firearm related sites in the same area that I will have to make a return trip soon.
Best Regards,
WACA Life Member #6284 - Specializing in Pre-64 Winchester .22 Rimfire
Gee, I’ve had Roy Jenks’ S&W book so long, I assumed he must be in the same category as so many of my old friends: RIP. Good to know he has not yet joined that large fraternity.
Before I became too decrepit to endure 4 hrs behind the wheel (one way), the Springfield show was one on my great favorites…but less because of the show itself, which was very good but nothing like Baltimore or Denver, than because of the excuse it gave me to leave the show shortly after noon and spend the rest of the day at SA. Many times I did this, but never came close to getting my fill of the Armory collection, especially the “upstairs” part.
Yep, Roy Jinks is still alive and kicking. I thoroughly enjoyed his presentation on the S&W 1917 and chatting with him afterward. He is a true gentleman.
The “upstairs” part is by far the highlight of the museum. They are accommodating with access for researchers, more so than most other NHS sites. The firearms upstairs are mind-boggling. I was pleased to hear they are getting an infusion of money from the state and other sources (about $30-40 million) to begin preservation on some of the other buildings. They have already commenced on the Junior Officer Quarters (building 5/6).
For those that have never been upstairs at the Springfield Armory, here are some photos (not mine). http://www.pbase.com/mrclark/springfield_armoury_museum
Best Regards,
WACA Life Member #6284 - Specializing in Pre-64 Winchester .22 Rimfire
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