I recently acquired an interesting front sight that is stamped 'Merrimack Arms & Mfg." and F. N. 'Martin Patent Jan 5, 1864' (which I think predates the start of Merrimack Arms). I assume it to  have been offered as an option on their Ballard rifles.  I have found very little information on this sight and though it possibly someone here may have some information on it, and if not, at least be interested in seeing one. 

had pictures here but unfortunately I find I am not allowed to post pictures because this is my first post here - will add later if allowed

The patent does not have the added metal flip up cover - )I also find I am not allowed to post an active link since this is my first post... will try later)

The only reference to this sight I have was forwarded to me by friend who noticed a reference to a 'Martin Magic Sight' in Sharpe's book ' The Rifle in America' in the section about Merrimack arms. In it he quotes an article called "Trip to Colorado" from an 1867 Harper's Magazine, here is a little of it - "Next in importance in the arms department are Martin's Magic Sight and Beache's ..... The first is made of steel and glass with an 18-carat gold tip and a movable hood... In the open field the hood is partially or fully closed.... in the forest it is opened..."

My guess would be this isn't a Ballard specific sight, but most likely an aftermarket sight that could be purchased and used on any gun with that dovetail size. Pretty cool old sight, and I've never seen one like it. Strobel's old gunsight book doesn't list it, even under small misc. makers.

Thanks powderman, Was yours also Merrimack Arms marked? From the 1864 patent date I had thought the sight may have been made by some other company before Merrimack Arms was founded (which I think was 1866? and folding about 1869?) Also, do you think the sights offered by 'Brown Mfg Co.' would have been marked with their name or were just 'Merrimack Arms' marked inventory they had acquired?