The Legacy of Peters Cartridge Company: A Pioneer in Ammunition Innovation

  • November 25, 2023
  • 3 Min Read

Founded in 1887 by the innovative Gershom Moore Peters, a former preacher, the Peters Cartridge Company swiftly established itself as a significant player in the ammunition industry. Peters, who invented a novel process for manufacturing shotgun shells, led the company to become one of the first to produce machine-loaded shotgun shells. This technological leap not only revolutionized the industry but also underscored the company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency.

Throughout its existence, Peters Cartridge Company played a role in both World Wars, providing munitions for the Allied forces. The company’s manufacturing prowess and ability to supply military ammunition on a grand scale significantly contributed to the war efforts. This contribution to global conflicts underscored the company’s international impact and its importance in the annals of military history.

The company’s journey, however, wasn’t without its challenges. In 1890, a tragic explosion at the factory claimed 12 lives, leading to the rebuilding of the facility. This incident marked a significant moment in the company’s history, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

In 1934, the Remington Arms Company acquired Peters Cartridge, continuing the legacy of producing high-quality smokeless powder at King’s Mill until 1944. Post-World War II, the site underwent several transformations, being repurposed by Columbia Records for manufacturing phonograph record disks and later by Seagram for distilling purposes.

Today, six renovated buildings remain of the once expansive factory complex, serving as a testament to the historical significance and the enduring legacy of the Peters Cartridge Company.

Explore the Rich Archives: Catalogs and Flyers at the Resource Center

In addition to the fascinating history of the Peters Cartridge Company, the International Ammunition Resource Center offers an exclusive opportunity to delve deeper into the company’s legacy through a comprehensive collection of catalogs and flyers. These documents, a treasure trove for enthusiasts and historians alike, provide a unique window into the evolution of ammunition technology and marketing strategies over the years.

Members have the privilege of accessing these rare materials, which include detailed product listings, innovative designs, and marketing materials that reflect the changing trends and demands of the times. The catalogs and flyers not only showcase the company’s diverse product range but also its commitment to quality and innovation, which set it apart in the ammunition industry.

These archives serve as an invaluable resource for understanding the historical context of the Peters Cartridge Company’s operations and its impact on the ammunition industry. Whether you’re researching historical ammunition types, studying the evolution of marketing in the arms industry, or simply indulging in a passion for historical memorabilia, these documents offer a rich and engaging experience.

We invite you to explore these archives and immerse yourself in the storied past of the Peters Cartridge Company, a journey through time that echoes the innovations and challenges of a bygone era.

Direct Link: https://members.cartridgecollectors.org/pages/collections_featured.php?parent=632967