Niagara River Salvaged Signal Cannon | Maritime Communication Relic in Excavated Condition | Circa 1700s
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: North America (Niagara River)
Material: Cast iron or brass (excavated condition)
Period: 18th Century
Description
This historically significant maritime artifact is an 18th-century signal cannon salvaged from the Niagara River and preserved in excavated condition. Signal cannons were widely used in ports and aboard ships during the 18th century to communicate arrivals, inspections, warnings, and ceremonial salutes. Their compact construction allowed for repeated firings while remaining durable in maritime environments.
Artifacts of this type played an important role in naval communication systems, particularly in busy waterways such as the Great Lakes. The cannon’s form and preservation offer a tangible connection to early maritime trade, naval signaling, and harbor operations.
Features
- Compact signal cannon design
- Cast iron or brass construction
- Excavated condition with authentic marine patina
- Salvaged from the Niagara River
- Representative of 18th-century maritime signaling equipment
Cultural Significance
Signal cannons were essential tools for maritime communication throughout the early modern period. They were fired to announce a vessel’s arrival, request harbor clearance, signal inspection for disease control, or mark ceremonial occasions. Their use was particularly important in strategic waterways such as the Great Lakes, where naval operations, trade, and colonial expansion depended on clear communication between ships and port authorities.
Condition
Excavated condition with natural surface encrustation and wear consistent with long-term submersion. The cannon retains strong structural form and historical character.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 8.3 in
Age (Approximate)
225–325 years old
Learn More
Watch an overview of Signal Cannons and Their Maritime Use
Browse our Collection of Historic Weapons and Combat Artifacts
View examples of 18th Century Signal Cannons
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: North America (Niagara River)
Material: Cast iron or brass (excavated condition)
Period: 18th Century
Description
This historically significant maritime artifact is an 18th-century signal cannon salvaged from the Niagara River and preserved in excavated condition. Signal cannons were widely used in ports and aboard ships during the 18th century to communicate arrivals, inspections, warnings, and ceremonial salutes. Their compact construction allowed for repeated firings while remaining durable in maritime environments.
Artifacts of this type played an important role in naval communication systems, particularly in busy waterways such as the Great Lakes. The cannon’s form and preservation offer a tangible connection to early maritime trade, naval signaling, and harbor operations.
Features
- Compact signal cannon design
- Cast iron or brass construction
- Excavated condition with authentic marine patina
- Salvaged from the Niagara River
- Representative of 18th-century maritime signaling equipment
Cultural Significance
Signal cannons were essential tools for maritime communication throughout the early modern period. They were fired to announce a vessel’s arrival, request harbor clearance, signal inspection for disease control, or mark ceremonial occasions. Their use was particularly important in strategic waterways such as the Great Lakes, where naval operations, trade, and colonial expansion depended on clear communication between ships and port authorities.
Condition
Excavated condition with natural surface encrustation and wear consistent with long-term submersion. The cannon retains strong structural form and historical character.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 8.3 in
Age (Approximate)
225–325 years old
Learn More
Watch an overview of Signal Cannons and Their Maritime Use
Browse our Collection of Historic Weapons and Combat Artifacts
View examples of 18th Century Signal Cannons
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