A gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham
A gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham, J.P. Clabrough, was a historic figure in firearms, bridging the US and UK gunmaking traditions.
A gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham, J.P. Clabrough, contributed significantly to the shooting sports both in California and in England. His work left a legacy that collectors and hunters still celebrate today.
Early Life and Journey to America
It may be hard to believe, but San Francisco once was a mecca for the shooting sports. Little more than a buggy ride away was exceptional waterfowling in the Sacramento Delta as well as Tule elk and grizzly bear hunting in the coastal range. Then in 1848, with the discovery of gold near Sacramento, San Francisco’s population exploded. John Plumb Clabrough, born in England, chose to travel the California Trail to seek new opportunities.
In 1857, at age 21, J.P., together with his brother George and sister Harriet, set off from England for New York City on the transatlantic steamer City of Baltimore. Eventually they made their way to Jacksonville, Illinois, and then, in about 1860, J.P., trained as a gunsmith, found work in St. Louis in the shop of the legendary Samuel Hawken.
Establishing as a Gunmaker in San Francisco
By late 1863 J.P. Clabrough was listed in San Francisco’s business directory. He worked with Wilson & Evans and later with Robert Liddle & Company, before opening his own shop at 630 Montgomery Street in 1867. His early guns—side-by-side 12-gauge percussion shotguns and .52-caliber rifles—marked “J.P. Clabrough San Francisco”—showcase his craftsmanship and the emergence of a gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham.
Expansion to Birmingham and International Business
In 1868 J.P. traveled to England to arrange guns made in Birmingham to his specifications, marked “J.P. Clabrough & Bro. San Francisco.” His brother Joseph oversaw logistics, shipping firearms to California. Clabrough’s San Francisco operation flourished while his Birmingham factory allowed him to expand production, cementing his legacy as a gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham.
The Legacy of Clabrough Firearms
By the late 1870s, Clabrough-named guns were produced in high volume, often of low or medium grade, but some were extraordinary, marked “Centennial” or “Diamond Quality.” The firm produced shotguns, rifles, and pistols that were sold internationally, reaching Spain, France, Australia, Russia, Germany, and Canada. A gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham, J.P. Clabrough set a standard of quality and international reach.
Collectors and Modern Appreciation
Collectors today value Clabrough guns for their history and craftsmanship. High-grade Clabrough hammerguns or boxlocks can fetch significant sums, while trade guns remain accessible. The story of a gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham is a bridge between the US and UK gunmaking traditions, appreciated by hunters and collectors alike.
Modern Connection to Wingshooting
For modern wingshooters, understanding the history of J.P. Clabrough offers insight into the roots of firearm craftsmanship. Whether you’re exploring Dove Hunting Tips or booking hunting packages in Argentina, the legacy of quality and skill from a gunmaker in San Francisco & Birmingham remains relevant.
Authors’ Note
Both authors have owned Clabrough guns and relied on Larry Shelton’s book J.P. Clabrough—Birmingham Gunmaker (contact Larry Shelton; www.clabrough.com).
Steve Helsley, retired law-enforcement executive, and Roger Sanger, bird hunter and collector, share this account.
