Live shell found at Petersburg

[Jamieva]

http://www.inrich.com/cva/ric/news.a...3-28-0148.html

[cw1865]

Well, thankfully nobody was hurt, nobody wants to become the newest last casualty of the US Civil War. Its amazing that these things still pack a punch after so many years.

[M E Wolf]

Dear CW1865,

Reminds me of the latin saying 'Traveller, you stand on the dust of heros.'

There should be another -- 'Traveller, you stand on the weapons and ammunition used by heros.'

Too bad West Point couldn't come down with their authentic cannons and put that live shell in use and, perhaps drive home the point, sound wise how it really sounds--re-enactors/living historians rarely have a chance to fire a 'real' authentic round. [Note: When the West Point did shoot off authentic rounds and cannons, they had a 6 mile 'shooting range.]

I do agree with you though--thank goodness someone didn't get hurt. The explosion/blast in Virginia with an 'expert' in Civil War artifacts that blew him up--well, hopefully all will be cautious in handling any ammunition past or present.

Just some thoughts.

Respectfully submitted,
M. E. Wolf

[gary]

Blackpowder is forever! Kept dry, it lasts indefinitely.