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One and all,

I am hoping someone may be able to shed some light on the manufacture date and perhaps some other relevant information on this Rigby rifle. A friend (whom has no interest in firearms as such) has contacted Rigby but to no avail so I am hoping someone on this site may be able to assist. The rifle has significant historical and family value to him. Perhaps the serial number "91687" may indicate date of manufacture?

Any information will be greatly appreciated.

The story of the rifle as told to me.

The rifle belonged to Pete Pearson, an elephant hunter and game ranger who, it was said, killed over 1000 elephants during his time in Kenya, the Congo and Uganda in the first quarter of the 20th century. In 1928, Pearson accompanied the Prince of Wales, later to be known as King Edward V111, the king who abdicated the throne, on a royal safari. On the last day of the safari, a rogue bull elephant charged the Royal Party and Pearson placed himself between the Prince and the elephant, shooting with lethal effect. Sir William Gowers, Governor of Uganda, wrote later: " It was an exhibition of presence of mind, quickness and courage which I am glad to have been privileged to witness, and which none of those who saw it will ever forget." The Prince gave Pearson a royal tie pin and cufflinks as mementoes of the occasion. Pearson died the following year following complications after an appendicitis operation.He was 55.
These keepsakes and the rifle used to 'avert a Royal tragedy' have been kept in the family ever since. The family would like to know the date of manufacture and other relevant information about this prized weapon.

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JohnK

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