William W. Scagel information

[Bert H.]

Hello all,

To start this off, I am not what anyone would consider a knife person... in reality, I am a Winchester firearms history buff and collector, and soon to be new author.

What brings me here to this forum, is that very recently I purchased a Winchester Model 1885 Single Shot high-wall rifle that was originally owned by William W. Scagel. As a history nut, I am trying to track down any available information about him (his biography would be a great start). The rifle came with a white canvas gun sock with "W.SCAGEL" on it, and his name is stamped in a hidden location on the rifle. I purchased the rifle out of a shop in Michigan, and the fellow who had it consigned there claimed to be just the second owner. Can anyone here tell me where William W. Scagel was located during his knife making career, and when he was born and died?

Thank you in advance for any information and assistance,
Bert Hartman

[fitzo]

From Scagel The Man and His Knives by Harry McEvoy ( http://www.knifeworld.com/scagmanandhi.html ):

born February 12, 1873, possibly Ontario or Alpena, Michigan

died March 26, 1963

location during career around Fruitport, Michigan (near Muskegon)

The authority on Mr. Scagel is Dr. James Lucie, his physician and the keeper of his knifemaking flame. Someone may be able to provide an email address for Dr. Lucie.

[SharpByCoop]

In the world of Custom Knives he is regarded as the Patriarch of modern customs. VERY sought after and acclaimed. His work is rough by today's standards, but it is valuable.

You have a nice piece of history. Might be worth more than you thought.

Cool!

Coop

[rhrocker]

Bert, also check with Buddy Thomason
blt@quixnet.net as he is also quite knowledgable on Mr. Scagel and his possessions. Buddy can be found on this forum. Good luck with your search! I envy you for what you have.

Here's Dr. Lucie's address to:
Jim Lucie
E-mail Address(es):
scagel@netonecom.net

[Bert H.]

The information provided thus far is a great starting point, and I thank each one of you for your individual replies. I will contact both Dr. Lucie and Buddy Tomason soon.

A little bit more about the rifle...

Per a Cody Firearms Museum factory letter it was received in the warehouse on February 10th, 1904, and is chambered for the 40-70 Ballard cartridge. It has a 32-inch (special order) No. 3 full octagon barrel, and a long-range graduated peep tang sight with a Lyman No. 5B combination front sight. It was shipped the next day on the 11th. It is in exceptionally fine condition, and has a near mint bore. Mr. Scagel was apparently a very meticulous man.

Thanks again,
Bert Hartman

[hammerdownnow]

Bill Scagel was said to be an exellent marksman and hunter, even tho he did not eat meat.