This rare rifle was made by Ferdinand Francis Cook in Athens, Georgia in 1864. Cook and Brothers originally started in New Orleans until forced to leave by the Union takeover of the city in 1862. The factory was then established in Athens, Georgia and up and running by 1863. In 1864 Ferdinand was killed by a Federal sharpshooter defending Griswoldville, Georgia against Sherman's March to the Sea. Collectors estimate only a few thousand of the rifles were built. The rifles closely resemble a British Pattern 1856 "Short Rifle". Rifle has a 33" round Damascus steel rifled barrel in .58 caliber with no lug for bayonet. Original front sight and replaced rear notch sight. Breech is marked "Proofed". Percussion lock marked "Cook and Brothers Athens Ga" with a "Confederate Flag "at rear, "1864" date and "7305" serial number. Walnut stock with Enfield style brass hardware including two barrel bands and brass swivels. The nose cap is numbered"7543". Stock has a large carved "WI" initials on left buttstock. Front barrel band is a replacement made of iron. Rifle is missing iron ramrod. CALIBER: 58. S/N: 7305. FFL STATUS: Antique.

The rifle exhibits a brown barrel finish with solder marks around the rear sight and front of barrel; either worn silver from handling or slightly polished. Original stock with repaired wrist crack and several stress cracks on lock screw side. The barrel has an incorrect front band. The stock has a repair in front of the trigger bow. Missing ramrod. Front nose cap is correct but does not match action. Pitted bore with crisp mechanics. Has a good look with some small repairs needed to restore to original form.