So I still don't know if my great grandfather bought it new or not.
I have learned that Ralph (my ggf, pictured) was a carpenter for the D&H railroad before he bought our farm, from his sister in law, in 1920. And that he, at least once, traveled out west, when this picture was taken in Los Angeles. He was born in 1880 so this trip must have occurred somewhere around the turn of the century.
I can't help but wonder if there's a chance he picked up this 1899C on that trip, but it seems like it will be hard to determine.
I've been trying to find out what I can about Simmon's Hardware in St. Louis and have learned that they were a large retailer back in the day, but so far I can find no links that may lead to their old sales records.
Anyhow, here's another letter on another fine old rifle to add to the (impressive) knowledge base you all have here.
