Cannonball Fragment ?

[kimbershot]

While out exploring a site that has seen some CW activity, I came across this chunk of what I believe is a piece of an exploded cannonball. It appears it may be a bormann fused cannonball--size--maybe 12 lb????? I haven't been able to find thread measurements for cannonballs on any website for the 2 threaded holes, to help confirm my suspicions. I would appreciate it if anybody can help identify my find.

Previously, I recovered a canister shot on the same property that measured about 2 inches in diameter, as well as several other items. Also in the picture--several strands of chain--appears to be hand forged and a partially flatened lead shot.

 

[kimbershot]

Fragment of Bormann Shell Rim-as advertised-@JoshuasAttic.com

My finds are helping our local historical society put together skirmish scenarios that took place in Jan. 1865. These little pieces of history are pointing to a more heated exchange between Yanks and Rebs than previously thought of.

 

[brianc577]

My experience, which ain't alot, would say, no this is not a cannonball frag. The thickness and angle are not correct. That is just one opinion though!!!! Good luck!

 

[togg77]

Yes, it is the top or fuse opening for a Borman fuse. The inner shelf is where an iron plug sat with a flash hole in it. This iron ring/washer kept the soft lead Borman fuse from being set back into the main powder charge. Your fragment is either from a shell,which had no lead balls encased or from a case shot which had many 69 cal balls embedded in pitch which had a small hole drilled from top to bottom and contained a small bursting charge. Sometimes you will find a partial 69 ball which looks half moon because it was drilled through when the bursting charge hole was drilled. Good find.

 

[brianc577]

Awesome info! Glad I was wrong and I learned something.