About the Proprietor

My name is Richard O’Flaherty, and I have been a Civil War reenactor and collector of Civil War artifacts for many years. Of particular interest to me are the workings of the Federal Arsenals and the construction of Civil War ammunition. It is estimated that over 1 billion cartridges for small arms were made during the Civil War (2).  Given that over 90% of all Civil War battle wounds were the result of small arms fire, the importance of the weapons the Civil War soldier carried and the bullets they shot cannot be underestimated (3).  My primary focus is the fabrication of cartridges used for the United States Army regulation .58 caliber rifle-musket, the principal weapon of the Union Army for most of the war.

I have visited many Civil War battlefields and have spent many hours in the museums, visitor centers, and relic dealers near these battlefields. I have examined several original cartridges and cartridge bundles. I started making my own cartridges years ago, striving to create as close a match to the originals I have examined and the originals I have in my personal collection. I have also researched much on the topic, studied period manuals, examined the correspondences between military personnel, and read many excellent books written by people who know substantially more than I do.

I first thought about producing cartridges for the reenacting and living history community back in 2009, but life circumstances then did not permit me the time. Since then, my son has grown, and I have survived and recovered from two pulmonary embolisms. The time is now right for me to pursue what I have long wanted to do. I have been a member of the Civil War reenacting and living history community for a long time and would like to contribute something I believe is important to a community I respect.

Thank you for your interest in The Columbia River Arsenal. I hope to earn your individual trust and that of the reenacting and living history community by offering an authentic product that is reasonably priced and delivered within the agreed upon amount of time. I look forward to serving you.

I am Very
Respectfully,
Your obt. Servt.

Richard O’Flaherty

Proprietor