THIS ISSUE IS CLOSED
Honoring the Legendary Chiricahua Apache Chief based on the Recently Discovered Painting of Cochise
America Remembers introduces “A Tribute to Cochise” which is on a Winchester rifle. This firearm honors Cochise who fought for freedom in the face of near impossible odds.
Cochise – his name and exploits were legendary even during his lifetime; today he remains one of the most important names in America’s Western history. The name “Cochise” has been passed down through history with an awe and respect that few others can match. In the 1860s and 70s, it was the name settlers in the Southwest feared above all others. To the Chiricahua Apaches, it is a name that stands for courage and strength, a name to be taught with pride to each new generation.
As chief of the Chiricahua Apache in the 1860’s and 70’s, Cochise led his people in their valiant attempt to retain their freedom and continue with their traditional lifestyle. “The Apaches want to run around like a coyote,” Cochise once said. “They don’t want to be put in a corral.”
So the Chiricahua Apache chief fought on, long after other tribes had given up their homelands and moved to the reservations. With his band of less than 200 followers, he held the U.S. Army at bay for over ten years before finally agreeing to a peace treaty in 1872, and initially securing a reservation for his people in the same area where they lived, not in some far-off location.
At the height of his power, Cochise led not only his own Chiricahua Apaches but also the warriors of other Apache bands, and today is recognized as one of the most powerful war chiefs in all of history. By the time of his surrender in 1872, he had become a living legend among his people and his enemies alike. Today, America Remembers, in cooperation with Charles Parker, is proud to present “A Tribute To Cochise,” a handsomely decorated firearm honoring the life and legend of this famous leader. For this Tribute, we selected a working Winchester Model 94 Rifle in .30-30 caliber and decorated it with breathtaking 24-karat gold and nickel artwork honoring the life and legend of Cochise and his Chiricahua Apaches. In creating this design, we’ve worked closely with Charles Parker to ensure that we capture the first-ever, history-making portrait which is now in his possession.
The Tribute is strictly limited to an edition of just 300 rifles. Each will be individually numbered, and through Mr. Parker’s cooperation, I’m pleased to announce that each Tribute will come with a full-scale print of the “Cochise 1872” painting, suitable for framing. It’s a magnificent painting, and it is the perfect addition to the rifle. Craftsmen specifically commissioned by America Remembers decorate each Tribute.
The left side of the receiver features a portrait of Cochise. Present are the prominent cheekbones and Roman nose described in written accounts of those who met him, and the stern and serious expression that led one contemporary to remember, “Cochise never smiled. He was severe and grave of aspect.” To the right is a detailed rendering of a hard-fought battle between Indian warriors and U.S. Cavalry troopers. The scene is alive with action and filled with detail. The Apache’s rifles are adorned with war decorations in the form of brass tacks. Pictured in the background are the mountains which provided secure and difficult to penetrate campsites for the Apaches.
The right side of the receiver features Cochise on horseback at the front of a Chiricahua raiding party. Behind them are Arizona’s Dragoon Mountains, one of Cochise’s places of retreat between raids. Cochise is carrying a decorated shield with four dots, representing the four corners of the Earth. To the right, you will see a Spirit Dancer in ceremonial headdress and body paint. All artwork is captured in a combination of 24-karat gold and nickel with special blackened highlights to accentuate the details.
The hammer, lever, trigger, and elevated sight are all hand polished and decorated in 24-karat gold.
Now is your opportunity to secure a magnificent Tribute to one of the greatest Apache leaders – a man who fought for freedom against tremendous odds, and a leader whose name will be honored for generations to come.
” COCHISE 1872″
FREE PRINT
With the purchase of “A Tribute To Cochise” you will receive a free full-scale print from the recently discovered painting titled, “Cochise 1872.” This is a limited opportunity, so order now to obtain a piece of history and secure your place in this limited edition.
Actual Print Size: 18 1/2″ x 24″
Cochise 1872. All rights reserved by Charles Parker.