The great guns

by Harold Leslie Peterson, Robert Elman

Large 9" x 11.75", 252 page, indexed format. History of firearms from the early hand cannons and matchlocks through the 19th century. Lots of color photos as well as period illustrations.

252 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1971

About the author

Harold Leslie Peterson was a historian widely considered in his day to be a foremost expert on firearms and related subjects in American history.

Peterson was born in Peekskill, New York, on May 22, 1922. He attended Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, where he was an undefeated varsity fencer in foil and saber. His education was interrupted by a nine-month tour of active duty during World War II. He graduated from Drew with an AB magna cum laude in 1945

Peterson's entire professional career was with the National Park Service. From 1963 until his death in 1978 he held the title of Curator. During his career he was consultant to many organizations and museums as an expert on historical arms and armor.

Peterson's interest, writings and research in military history went well beyond the range of arms and armor, to include military music and drinks of soldiers. He recorded his own performances of classic military music, and he wrote a book on drinks called Cups of Valor under the pseudonym N. E. Beveridge.

Reviews

[Ian Chapman]

Notable for excellent colour photography, of guns that appear to be finely maintained museum pieces.