Incompetence, Corruption, and a Rioting Mob: The Gibbs Carbine

Published on April 5, 2018
Duration: 11:05

The Gibbs Carbine, a Civil War-era breech-loading firearm, faced significant production challenges and delays. Patented in 1856, its development was hampered by manufacturing difficulties, leading to contract renegotiations and a change in ownership. The New York Draft Riots in 1863 tragically destroyed the Phoenix Armory, halting production and resulting in a limited number of delivered carbines.

Quick Summary

The Gibbs Carbine was a Civil War-era breech-loading percussion firearm designed for cavalry. Despite its innovative design, production was plagued by delays and manufacturing issues, culminating in the destruction of the Phoenix Armory during the 1863 New York Draft Riots, limiting deliveries to just 1,052 units.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Early History of the Gibbs Carbine
  2. 02:04Gibbs Carbine Mechanical Operation & Design
  3. 04:32Production Delays & New Ownership of Gibbs Carbine
  4. 07:05New York Draft Riots & Phoenix Armory Destruction
  5. 08:51Gibbs Carbine Aftermath & Collector Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Gibbs Carbine?

The Gibbs Carbine was a single-shot, breech-loading percussion firearm designed for cavalry use during the American Civil War. Patented in 1856, it featured a unique sliding barrel action for loading paper cartridges.

Why was the Gibbs Carbine production limited?

Production was severely hampered by manufacturing difficulties, contract renegotiations, and ultimately, the destruction of the Phoenix Armory by a mob during the 1863 New York Draft Riots, resulting in only 1,052 units delivered.

Who was involved in the Gibbs Carbine's development and production?

Key figures included inventor Lucien Gibbs, financier William Brooks, gunsmith W.W. Marston, and later, New York Mayor George Opdyke, who purchased the company and oversaw production at the Phoenix Armory.

What happened to the Phoenix Armory?

During the New York Draft Riots in July 1863, a mob attacked and burned down the Phoenix Armory, destroying hundreds of completed Gibbs carbines and thousands more in parts, effectively ending the firearm's production.

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