OK. Be advised that this post is rather "far out", but I've followed the Joel McKee discussion over the last few years and finally decided to toss out a rather outlandish data (or non-data) point. Some of you have seen my posts in the past and know that my Masters Thesis in the mid-1960s was about Col. James E. McCord and the Frontier Regiment 1862-65. You may also remember that I posted a note a few months ago about an article, published in the magazine of the Colt Collectors Association, that I wrote about a M1860 Colt 44 Army used in the First Battle of Adobe Walls, near the current location of Amarillo in 1864. Just a bit of background to suggest that I'm not a total flake when it comes to historical research. I know a good bit about 19th century Texas history and also about firearms of that period.

The info I want to share, is that about 10 years ago, I acquired a M1851 Colt Navy (36 caliber) pistol serial # in the 23xxx range meaning it was made about 1853. Clearly etched on the butt strap, in what is undoubtedly period style, is --J. McKee. Now I know that in 1850s/60s America there were hundreds, maybe thousands, of McKee's many with names of James, John, Jessie, Joel, etc. Any link to this Joel McKee is totally unprovable absent some contemporary court or similar record of his with the linked serial number. Still, one of the great and exciting things about reading, researching, and even collecting history is the "untold" story that might be lurking out there somewhere.

The world is smaller than it seems. My great grandfather's half sister was Peter J. Hardeman's wife. They were part of the Confederados some of whom are buried in Brazil.

Thanks for indulging me.

Mike