Revolutionary War 12-pdr. cannonball, recovered at Fort Ticonderoga, NY

Last year I traveled to upstate New York and through the Champlain Valley area. During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet a lifelong resident of Ticonderoga, NY. This connection allowed me to acquire several historical items that he had recovered many years ago near Fort Ticonderoga.

One of the more notable items from this collection is a Revolutionary War 12-pounder solid-shot cannonball. This artifact was recovered directly from the area of Fort Ticonderoga. The cannonball has a 4 1/2" diameter and weighs 13 pounds. Both the British and American forces made extensive use of artillery during the Revolution, and the 12-pounder cannons were a common sight on the battlefield. Today, a similar cannon is on display at Fort Ticonderoga (see pictures).

At the outset of the war, the Patriots possessed very little artillery. However, George Washington effectively utilized captured British cannons from Fort Ticonderoga to force the British evacuation of Boston in 1776. Over time, the Americans developed the capacity to manufacture their own cannons and also received significant artillery support from France.

Fort Ticonderoga is positioned on Lake Champlain in northeastern New York. Its strategic location provided crucial access to both Canada and the Hudson River Valley during the French and Indian War. On May 10, 1775, Benedict Arnold joined Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys of Vermont in a surprise dawn attack on the fort. They captured the British garrison, marking the first American victory of the Revolutionary War. This victory supplied the Continental Army with much-needed artillery for future engagements.

The cannonball remains in excellent condition, showing no signs of flaking or chipping—an indication of its early recovery. 

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and value. I am already seeing a substantial surge in sales.