History and value of Springfield rifle

Question
QUESTION: Dear Sir, I have a single shot rifle. The writing on the barrel is SPRINGFIELD ARMS COMPANY
CHICOPEE FALLS, MASS U.S.A. and 22 SHORT-LONG OR LONG RIFLE. The rifle serial No. is 0036xxx. Could you please provide me some details to the history of that rifle and its estimated value?
Thank you in advance, Joe.

ANSWER: Joe,

Springfield was the trade name used by the J. Stevens Arms and Tool Co. which was located in Chicopee Falls, Mass. The company began in 1864 as the J. Stevens and Company.
In 1888 it was incorporated as the J. Stevens Arms and Tool Co. It operated under this name until 1920 when it was acquired by the Savage Arms Co.

Most of these factory records have been lost and even Savage will no longer attempt to date/history one of their older firearms. However, based upon the above info I am  estimating that your rifle was made between the late 1800's and 1920.

There were many various models of Springfield/Stevens/Savage line of .22's made during that time. Without a model name or number I once again need to make and educated guess as to value. Most of the models in question in "good" condition have an approximate retail value that ranges from $100 to $250.

I hope this helps give you some idea of what you have and thanks for the question Joe.
Sid Lark

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear Sid, thank you for the answer. The rifle is similar in look to the Winchester model 67 (trigger guard is slightly different in design). Was there any connection between the J. Stevens Arms company and the Winchester companies? Thanks again, Joe.

Answer
Joe,

I have no record of Winchester ever having been in the "mix".

To obtain a condensed version of the Savage products and time line, please visit the company history page at www.savagearms.com/history.htm  There is some very interesting info located there but yet not too detailed or lengthy for recreational review.