A rare American Civil War period percussion fired signal cannon built in the form of a sledge mounted heavy artillery fortress cannon in the period 1860 - 1880.
In the course of the American Civil War a number of crucial battles involving both the Federal Army and Navy were fought to capture the major seaports of the Southern United States in order to deny the Confederacy the export of its cash crop and import of military supplies. These port cities were strongly defended by seacoast forts armed with numerous heavy artillery pieces. This twenty two inch long, and quite heavy for its size, percussion cap fired signal cannon is modeled on the 'Big Guns' that defended the seaports. Those powerful artillery pieces were mounted on iron, or composite iron and wood, 'Sledge Mounts' so that when the guns, weighing many tons, were fired their heavy recoil would be controlled and absorbed through their own weight and friction as they slid rearward on their mountings.
This most impressive signal cannon is modeled on those heavy cannon and is constructed of iron, with a brass trunion ring, and its iron sledge mount with brass loading platform is mounted on a white oak base. This fine signal cannon displays professional craftsmanship. Casting, turning, and boring the heavy iron barrel required industrial equipment and highly trained personnel in its production. The iron carriage with complex telescoping elevation mechanism required the same capabilities, as did the sledge mounting.
The side of the iron carriage bears an embossed plate marked, "H. BRODIE". At this time we have not learned if this is a builder's plate, designer's name, or is a presentation plate for a Civil War officer. The skill, time, and effort that was required in the production of this signal cannon indicate it must have been created for a special purpose.
The cannon is in fine condition. The iron parts retain nearly all their original black 'Japanned' finish - this was a very strong laquer or varnish used in the mid nineteenth century as a protective finish on weapons and equipment used at sea and/or in a salt water environment. The brass fittings have a fine age patina, and the oak base has old finish.
A handsome and impressive antique signal cannon such as this - built in the form of heavy seacoast artillery - is a rarity for the collector of arms, Civil War pieces, and Americana.
Dimensions: Overall 22"long, 6" wide, 10" high
Barrel length 13 1/2", Breech Dia. 3", Bore Dia. 15/16"
Price: $2350.00
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