Ship Flare Cannon - 18th Century ???

[uxb]

Can someone confirm the ID that I received on this item.

4" tall, 2.75" diameter, appears to be iron - very heavy.

Found on the Gulf Coast, near the Gulf of Mexico.

Flare cannon - FRONT view

[attachment 36411 flarefront.jpg]

[attachment 36412 flaretop.jpg]

Flare cannon - TOP view

 

[Steve(Can)]

From the link below

Late 17th, Early 18th Century Signal Cannon

Sometimes called a "Thundermug", these small cannons were loaded
with powder and wad, set upon the ground in an upright position,
and fired to produce a loud signaling report.
This exceptional example is of iron and has a bore diameter of nearly one inch.
Excellent condition, dates from the late 17th, early 18th Century.
Stands 5 inches in height.

http://www.adrax.com/watsons/scannon.htm

Nice find!