Part 1: The Legacy of Craftsmanship: Ithaca Gun Company's Storied Beginnings
Nestled in the heart of the United States' rich tapestry of firearm manufacturing history, the Ithaca Gun Company emerges as a beacon of American craftsmanship and innovation. Since its establishment in 1880 in Ithaca, New York, by Leroy Smith and William Henry Baker, Ithaca has carved its name into the annals of American gunmaking with a reputation for quality, durability, and precision.
The inception of Ithaca Gun Company was more than just the establishment of another firearms manufacturer; it was a bold step into the future of American gunmaking. Founders Leroy Smith and William Henry Baker were visionaries, leveraging the fertile ground of Ithaca, New York, to set the stage for what would become a legendary name in the firearms industry. Their partnership, founded on a shared dedication to quality and innovation, was poised to revolutionize the way firearms were made.
From its earliest days, Ithaca was synonymous with innovation. The company made an indelible mark on the firearms industry with the introduction of the Ithaca Flues double-barreled shotgun, a marvel of engineering simplicity and efficiency designed by Emil Flues. This firearm, with its mere three moving parts per barrel, showcased Ithaca's commitment to innovation. Its mass production began in 1907, and it swiftly became the best-selling American double of its time, with over 223,000 units produced between 1908 and 1926. This was not just a testament to the company's innovative design but also to its profound impact on the American firearms market, challenging giants like Remington in the double gun market.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Rose & Scroll to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.