Clapper - The gun was a workhorse for the family for many years. I have no doubt it was cleaned, just don't know how well and how many years ago. As far as polished....not sure that was something they did on the farm back then. lol
I was also wondering if there could be any downside to giving it a real good cleaning? As far as the barrels are concerned, they look like they have seen better days. The insides are slightly marred from use over the many years, but at some point I will be taking it to a proper gunsmith to check it out before thinking of firing it. I think that would be prudent.
skeettx - I will follow that recipe for posting the next picture. Thanks.
