Salem Museum Speaker Series: The Long Rifle in Virginia

In the 18th century, the long rifle played an important role in shaping Virginia’s history. Gunmakers brought their own distinctive personalities to the process of rifle making. Essential for survival on the Virginia frontier, this celebrated rifle became a surprise factor in winning American independence. On Thursday, June 9, 2022, renowned expert and Salem native Wallace B. Gusler took an in depth look at the impact of the long rifle on the development of colonial Virginia. Gusler was Colonial Williamsburg’s first Master Gunsmith, and later Curator of Furniture and Arms and Director of Conservation. With his many years of experience, he is a scholar highly regarded for his in-depth knowledge of 18th-century firearms.