Some lesser known relics

[steve in so la]

We all dig things that are strange to us - later to find out what they are. Here's some things I have dug at Civil War sites over the years that some people might not keep when first dug.
First are 2 saddle shields. These were mounted on the saddles and if stamped, like one is, told which saddle it was. McClellan saddles frequently used these.
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc28b3127cce9eeecff3417400000016108AcuGbZs0asw">
Next is a collection of cannon fuses. The long end was stuck into the fire hole of the cannon. The short end had a twisted wire sticking out and when pulled it caused friction that ignited the fulminate of mercury that was in the pipe. This shot the fire down to the powder charge in the cannon that fired the ball.
<center><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3dd33b3127cce9eeecfed6ad200000026108AcuGbZs0asw">
Finally, the 2 bands in the middle are rifle "barrel bands" which held the wooden grip to the barrel. The other J shaped objects are hangers that were riveted to the soldier's belt. Then they could hang things from them. Steve in so az
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5ce32b3127cce94c61971977700000016108AcuGbZs0asw">

 

[Mike Chgo area]

n/t

 

[Mike from MI "Iron Brigade"]

I have some sword belt hanger too. Neat post!

 

[cadman]

cad

 

[Greg from Mi.]

n/t

 

[steve in so la]

d

 

[Joe G]

count on learning something from you

 

[Digdoug]

...none of which I have had the pleasure of finding. Cool!!

 

[steve in so la]

in lonely so az they surely must be back there somewhere. Maybe someday hook up with someone who digs them there, Steve

 

[rentasquid]

One of my favorite little "insignificant" doo-dads that I have dug are a pair of home-made toe protectors that someone had nailed to their shoes.

J.