Wells Fargo & Co. Express Double-Barrel ShotgunLate 19th Century (c. 1870s–1890s) with possible documented connection.

Wells Fargo & Co. Express Double-Barrel ShotgunLate 19th Century (c. 1870s–1890s) with possible documented connection.

External hammer, side-by-side shotgun with 24” barrels marked “W. Richard”, consistent with Birmingham-trade barrels commonly supplied to American express and railroad companies during the period.

The buttstock is stamped “WELLS FARGO AND CO.” and fitted with an original brass Wells Fargo & Co. Express property shield marked San Francisco Division. Both the stock stamp and shield style match documented examples of known Wells Fargo express firearms.

Wells Fargo is historically known to have issued and reused utilitarian shotguns for express offices, railroad depots, and payroll transport rather than high-grade sporting arms. The plain working configuration, barrel length, and overall construction of this gun are consistent with that documented practice.

Historical Association:

Accompanied by period documentation relating to John Samuel Chesney (b. 1876), a railroad foreman residing at 214 West Washington, Oklahoma City, an address and occupation historically linked to Wells Fargo Express activity. While no surviving ledger directly records individual firearm issuance, the firearm and documents originate from the same location and era, making a plausible historical association.

Condition:

Rough, well-used working condition with heavy surface wear, stock wear, and patina consistent with long service. Retains strong historical integrity despite condition.

A rare surviving example of an express company shotgun with compelling period context.

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