History through material culture.
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Pennsylvania Long Rifle- Lancaster, PA (Video)
Lancaster County, PA had a long tradition of producing long rifles, but failed to make enough muskets for the American Revolutionary War.
Colonial Powder Horn- Ft. William Henry, NY
This powder horn was designed by John Bush, a Black provincial soldier who almost survived the siege at Fort William Henry.
Colt 1851 Navy Revolver- Hartford, CT (3D)
With the Colt 1851 Navy, soldiers had the advantage of shooting six rounds continuously rather than loading one round at a time.
Minié Ball- Pea Ridge National Military Park, AR
Over one hundred .58-caliber minié balls were recovered throughout Pea Ridge, Arkansas, proving the use of military grade arms along the Western front of the Civil War.
Copper Arrow- Ontario, Canada
This copper point was found at Fort Ste. Marie II, an island site occupied by the Jesuits and the Huron-Wendat between 1649-1650.
British HMS Nimble Cannonball- Key Largo, FL (3D)
This cannonball's suspected source is the pirate slave ship Guerrero, which sank in 1827 after a battle with HMS Nimble.
WWI Dog Tag- Camp Logan, TX
This WWI dog tag from Camp Logan is one of two firsts in American military history.
Connecticut Coppers- Fairfax County, VA
Connecticut Coppers were one of many state-minted coins released after the Revolutionary War and were distinct for the grapevines added to Liberty’s shield.