The big cannon has been moved

Martin, Paul and Ross spent Thursday night 21st August wrestling with half a ton of cannon. It was touch and go at times but eventually they completed the task. The large cannon now has a better container to sit in; one which will make it easier for Martin to work on, with various preservation techniques.

'This won't take long,' smiles Martin.

3. They have to think again.

At last! With the lift at one end and human strength at the other, the cannon gave in.

When the cannon has been cleaned and preserved, this is where we hope to locate the maker's mark. That is the clue needed to finally confirm from which ship the cannon came.

The sides of the makeshift container have been released.

4. The position of the hydraulic lift is changed. Also, is the tank into which it will go.

The cannon in her new home, waiting for the tank to be filled with water.

1. The cannon has been released from its old home, in the polythene wrap, and is being attached to a portable hydraulic lift.
What can be more simple?

2. The boys soon find that it is far too heavy to be moved .

The small personal cannon had already been placed in a new tank a month before.

Two very pleased members. The task ahead involves using chemicals. Therefore, perspex sheets will now be purchased to act as lids, in order that the public can view the cannon but that possible chemical fumes will be contained within the tanks..

 Artefacts found near the cannon site.

The artefacts above were found by Mr Peter Hughes.(see previous article)
1,2,3 and 5 are 18th century coins . 4 is a military button. 6 shows a buckle and 3 gun shot.

Left -  a 9lb cannon ball found in 2005 near the cannon site, by Mr J Blundell.

All items are now under research and conservation procedures.

They will be returned to the museum on completion.



 Immediate plans - 1. The 2 cannon are to be placed in plastic tanks. 2. Three display boards are to be placed above the cannon to help explain their recovery, suggested period of origin and plans for the future.

                                                     It is hoped that the immediate plans will be completed by early August this year.


                                                              The research and conservation is being done under the guidance of Martin Little (Museum Archaeologist.)   
                                                                                                                                                                         Photographs of the artefacts by David Swidenbank.

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