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American inventor and firearms designer (1825–1906) who co-founded the gun manufacturer Smith & Wesson. Rare ALS signed “D. B. Wesson,” one page, 5.25 x 9, Office of Smith & Wesson letterhead, April 17, 1880. Handwritten letter to "Colt's Arms Co.," in full: "With this I hand you a Remonstrance which will explain itself. If you have not already taken some measures to oppose the passage of this bill, and you oppose this purpose please obtain as many signatures as possible, and fwd it to the proper person. I think it would be well if you were to call the attention of Mr. Eaton to this matter." In fine condition.
Wesson's letter, addressed to "Colt's Arms Co.," likely opposes legislation concerning firearms or their manufacture. He mentions Senator William Wallace Eaton of Connecticut, indicating a potential connection to federal regulation efforts. Government involvement in firearms regulation was not new; it began with the Militia Act of 1808, which funded state militias and introduced federal oversight of firearms manufacturing and standards. By the late 19th century, states and local governments increasingly enacted gun control laws affecting manufacturers like Smith & Wesson. For example, Tombstone, Arizona, passed an 1881 ordinance to ban the concealed carry of weapons within city limits without a permit.
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