Enfield Rifle, Berry Benson's

Artist / Creator

Henry Clive, Birmingham, England

Date

1853-1861

Description

This rifle is an Pattern 1853 Enfield .58 caliber short Navy rifle. It was stamped with the makers name of "Henry Clive" on the barrel. Henry Clive operated Gun Barrel Works in Birmingham, England.

The owner of this rifle was Confederate sharp shooter and scout Sgt. Berry Benson (born February 9, 1843; died January 1, 1923). He was born in Hamburg, South Carolina (modern North Augusta) and served in the Confederate Army. Benson fought in many battles including Second Manassas, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Savannah, and Appomattox. Benson was captured twice by Union forces and twice escaped the prisons. He famously never surrendered his rifle at Appomattox and instead traveled back to Augusta.

Credit Line

Donated by Berry Benson's daughter-in-law, Mrs. Susan Williams Benson.

Location

Exhibit

Object ID

6107