Utah was first to adopt a state gun, and they chose the Browning 1911. Â Next came Arizona, choosing the Colt Single Action Army revolver. Now Indiana has become the third state to name an official state gun, choosing a 200-year-old rifle crafted by John Small, who also designed the Indiana state seal and served as Indiana’s first sheriff.
The amendment was submitted by Senate Republican John Waterman, who had this to say about the Grouseland Rifle:
[blockquote]This rifle and its maker are both integral parts of Indiana history, and as such, the rifle is worthy of its designation as the Indiana State Rifle.[/blockquote]
The Indiana House voted 78-2 in favor of the bill that includes the rifle provision. The bill is pending approval by Governor Mitch Daniels, who is expected to sign the bill.
Grouseland Rifle
The Grouseland Rifle was made between 1803 and 1812 by John Small, who also worked as a master artist and gunsmith, militia captain, tavern keeper and territorial legislator. The rifle gets its name from Grouseland, which was the Vincennes home of President William Henry Harrison. The weapon, pictured above (artwork by Dan), is on display in Grouseland.
Way to go Indiana! My only question is, what’s Texas waiting for?
I’ll answer that: Texas should vote in Rick Perry’s Ruger LC-9 coyote-killin’ fanny pack gun.