John Lanigan, Gunmaker, Dublin.

John Lanigan

Gunmaker

Dublin

1829-1835

John Lanigan Percussion Magazine Stocked Pocket/Overcoat Pistol. circa 1830.

Private Collection.

Trading Adresses.

17 Nassau Street  1829-1831.

14 College Green 1831-1835.

Various issues arise while looking into the work of this gunmaker. The first being the similarity with his work and that of William & John Rigby i.e., The classic reverse "C" hammer and the engraving/etching style.

In addition, Lanigan commenced his trading at 17 Nassau Street in 1829 but after 3 years moved to what was the old initial business address of John Rigby, (14 College Green). This property would now, supposedly? be under the control of  John Rigby's son's (William & John) following the death of their father in 1818. 

It is evident that the Rigby family had a rather large property portfolio in Dublin at this time. 

This brings me to believe there was a business link with John Lanigan for this period. Although there is no evidence Lanigan may have been an ex employee?

Other Dublin gunmakers migrated in and out of the Rigby's employ, especially if they fell on hard times. In a future blog we will identify other Dublin gunmaker's who came under the Rigby's sphere of influence. 

See Blog dated: 29/8/2015

This would explain why so many Dublin pistols appear to be Rigby's but carry other gunmakers names. Moreover, it would also explain why so many pistols are found produced in the Rigby style yet are not serial numbered and found in the Rigby registers*

* Great Irish Gunmakers: Messr's Rigby by D.H.L Back.

The classic W & J Rigby lock with reverse "C" dolphin hammer.

We are always pleased to know of other pistols by John Lanigan.

Dave Stroud R.A..

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