About John Rice

John Rice
 John Rice at Fort Ticonderoga My first and most valuable interest in life is my family. The father of five children and seven grandchildren, I am also blessed with the companionship of a very dear lady.

My very first spark of interest in restoration and repair of antique firearms came in the summer of 1966 when I purchased the parts of a light weight target rifle (a 38 cal. gain twist J.M. Caswell piece) discovered in the green mountains of Vermont. Since that chance discovery I have never ceased in garnering information on this very interesting subject. The antiquity of the various firearm pieces is a fascinating and ongoing study into the John Rice at Fort Ticonderoga history of our country and its people. The caliber of craftsmanship of the various firearms speak volumes as to the maker of these tools. The research is relentless and non-stop. It is twofold. The repair is just as vital as the replication.

Since my first discovery thirty-six years have passed. In those thirty-six years I have created, repaired, and preserved many 18th and 19th century firearms. Because of the extensive work in this field, other antiquities have caught my interest including 18th Century Gun Locks and other implements of this fascinating era. Since the inception of my interest in this field, several mentors have come to my assist. Noteworthy among many are the names listed here.

  • Mr. Roland Southgate
  • Mr. William Large
  • Mr. Kit Ravenshear
  • Mr. Don Getz
  • Mr. George Newman
  • Mr. Jesse Melot (The Rifle Shop)
  • Dr. Dewitt W. Bailey (The tower of London)

    Due to my extensive work in this field, I have been called upon as an 18th century re-enactor and often doubling as an oral interpreter for regional and national reenactments. Entering into this special aspect of theatre has allowed me to delve into the anthropological studies relative to the New France and the special relationship between the French and their Indian allies. Having studied the languages, I am currently working to perfect my enunciation of the Indian language—Algonquian.

    John Rice at Fort Ticonderoga The historical documentation is enclosed with each replicated item sold. Information sheets are available as well as a list of various organizations, museums, gift shops as well as businesses that have dealt with us through the years.

    Thank you for your interest in myself and my miracles and efforts in life.

    Your Servant,

    John M. Rice
    Munitions Historian
    Oral Interpreter of Colonial History