Bellemore Johnson Co
There are
several versions of these 1898 model cannons, patented by a certain Griffith and
manufactured by another person under Winchester license, still today.
These
"signal cannons" are not in principle intended to fire cannonballs (see "not for
ball" marking on the barrel), but are bored to 10 gauge and support this
ammunition if loaded with buckshot or coarse salt for example.
This is
probably the reason for the mandatory test in Belgium, probably surrounded by a
mandatory declaration as well. Breech loading.
Version
1: Steel barrel entirely bronzed blue, black mount (Japanese enamel)
Version
2: Chromed steel barrel, mount as above. Name "Marine Model"
Version
3: Barrel and mount in bronze or brass, rather intended for the fittings.
From
1930, these cannons are equipped with tire wheels which make them completely
kitsch.
Quite
rare in our regions. On the model presented, one can think that the barrel has
been rechromed, but this version is not a DIYer's fantasy.
Marcel
Addendum:
The
current manufacturer is Bellemore Johnson Co, which obtained the manufacturing
license from Winchester in 1955.
For
further information: the site (and its links):
http://www.bellmorejohnson.com/history
