The Origins and Preservation of Civil War Artillery at Battlefields
When visiting Civil War battlefields today, it’s a common question to wonder if the cannons displayed are the actual artillery pieces used during the war. In most cases, the answer is yes. The artillery found at these sites is predominantly original, with the exception of some modernized components such as carriages and accessories.
The guns themselves are typically original, cast during the war and often marked with the foundry date and serial number, especially if they were produced in the North. The U.S. National Park Service (USPS) takes great care to preserve and document the field pieces, noting their usage and locations when known.
Preservation and Care
The preservation efforts of the USPS are meticulous. Each artifact is documented and maintained with great care. The gun barrels are maintained by painting and cleaning to prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring they remain in good condition even after decades. The carriages, however, are often replaced with modern materials to preserve the actual gun tubes.
Visitors are encouraged to respect this heritage. When visiting these battlefields, it's important to leave the site as found, taking only pictures and memories with them. Any historical artifacts or evidence should be left undisturbed and reported to a Ranger. This ensures that the history remains accessible for future generations.
Historical Context
Despite the age of the battlefields, it’s not uncommon to find individuals with a deep connection to these historical sites. For instance, the author has witnessed firsthand the authenticity of the artillery during a Civil War reenactment. At the 140th Anniversary Reenactment of the Battle of Shiloh, one of the Confederate artillery batteries featured refurbished original gun tubes mounted on rebuilt wooden carriages. The battery commander had conducted extensive research, verifying the serial numbers and confirming their authenticity.
General preservation practices indicate that it’s rarely necessary to replace the actual gun tubes. These enormous cast iron pieces are made to be durable and remain effective even after over a century. Regular maintenance, such as periodic painting, is sufficient to keep these historic treasures in good condition.
Iron artillery pieces are particularly well-preserved due to their robust construction. Unlike more delicate materials, cast iron doesn’t simply degrade over time, even without regular maintenance. This makes it unnecessary to produce reproductions, as the original pieces can often be preserved with relatively simple care measures.
Conclusion
In essence, the artifacts found at Civil War battlefields represent the true history of the conflict. While some components may be modernized, the gun barrels and carriages are carefully preserved to maintain their historical integrity. The dedication of the USPS ensures that visitors can continue to learn from and appreciate these significant pieces of history.