COLT: THE LEGACY OF A LEGEND

A Special Exhibition of Colt Firearms and Memorabilia
May 16 - October 6, 2003

See how Colt firearms work! Some portions may require broadband connection.

Presented in conjunction with the Colt Collector's Association, and Colt's Manufacturing Company, Inc., Colt: The Legacy of a Legend is the most historically significant exhibition of Colt firearms presented in the past 100 years.

Samuel Colt (1814-1862) patented the first mass-produced multishot revolving firearms, thereby guaranteeing himself lasting fame as one of America's most successful inventors and entrepreneurs. Colt's standard revolvers were works of precision and reliability highly valued by soldiers and frontiersmen. His deluxe arms, made for exhibition or presentation, were appreciated for their masterfully engraved decoration.

Colt: Legacy of a Legend has been designed to appeal to all interest levels through its provocative explorations of the elements of technology, tradition and culture that helped determine many of the prevailing characteristics of our contemporary society. The presentation consists of an array of more than eight hundred firearms produced by the genius of Samuel Colt, his associates and his successors. Intriguing visual, auditory and sensory experiences aid the visitor in learning about the societal themes that moved through and beyond Colt's industrial accomplishments in the Connecticut River Valley to influence numerous aspects of society.

The voice and image of actor Tom Selleck welcomes visitors to a virtual gallery of legendary figures who left indelible marks on the "Myth of West." The legacy of the amazingly energetic life of Samuel Colt, who made his name and his guns enduring international legends in a relatively brief period of time, wends its way like a golden thread throughout the displays. Beyond the fascinating and unique production factory is a veritable jewelry shop of firearms that are truly works of art. Featuring metals engraved with beautiful scrollwork and geometric designs, handles of ivory and mother-of-pearl, and richly-grained wooden stocks enhanced by intricate checkering and elaborate hand carving. Collecting - as a univeral phenomenon - is also explored in the exhibition including its motivations, rewards and benefits.

The exhibition features three computer interactives explaining the differences between historic and modern firearms technology, video presentations and a station for children (and adults!) to make their own rubbings of actual firearms engravings.

Colt: The Legacy of a Legend ended its run on October 6, 2003.