This extremely rare toy rifle was patented in 1902, shortly after Theodore Roosevelt assumed the presidency following McKinley's assassination. First the accompanying papers: included is dust soiled envelope 3.75x6.5" picturing the rifle. Second is 8.5x11" letterhead with bold illustration of the rifle and particulars about Chicago firm "The Toy Gun Manufacturing Co." Penciled text dated June 16, 1903 is from Edward Hazlehurst, president and manager writing to a Mr. Wilbur (also named on envelope) in an attempt to collect a debt. Third piece from June 24, 1903 to same person is typed on 5.25x8.5" blue letterhead with inquiry about the bankruptcy of an individual in Nebraska. Both letters have fold creases but are clean and Exc. The 24" long rifle has wooden stock. One side with uniformly dark finish, the other half dark finish and half worn to lighter shade of brown wood. The rest of the rifle is metal and was likely once in silver flashing but now a uniform dark gray without rust. Stamped in large bold letters in one side of chamber is "Rough Rider Teddy's Pom Pom." Opposite side smaller type reads "Toy Gun Mfg. Co. Chicago Patent Allowed." Spring-loaded hammer pulls back to cock and when released by trigger pull, rifle produces a loud "pop." Barrel front flares out to hold a ball (not included) as shown on the paper items. We aren't sure how ball was fired because, while mechanism works, there is no air blast or moving part to propel the ball from the opening. 1.75" behind the barrel end is a .75" long narrow cut-out groove, as made but purpose unknown to us. Overall a fine, working example and first we've seen or heard of. The only early character (or person) related toy rifle we know of is for Buffalo Bill, 1887.