overall: 7 in x 37 1/2 in x 2 1/4 in; 17.78 cm x 95.25 cm x 5.715 cm
Object Name:
gun, harpoon
Other Terms:
gun, harpoon; Maritime
Place Made:
United States: Massachusetts, New Bedford
Location of International Fisheries Exhibition:
United Kingdom: England, London
Date made:
1880s
Guns replaced hand tools:
late 19th century
Displayed at the International Fisheries Exhibition:
1883
Description:
By the later 19th century, guns had replaced most hand harpoons and lances, since they were far more efficient and deadly to the prey. They also could be shot from a safer distance from the prey than the hand tools could be wielded. The darting gun was one of the more popular types. Loaded with different darts, this versatile weapon could be used both for harpooning and killing whales.
This particular gun was displayed at the 1883 International Fisheries Exhibition in London, England. After the display ended, it was donated to the Smithsonian by its inventor, Capt. Eben Pierce of New Bedford, Mass.
Related event:
The Development of the Industrial United States Search this
