Revolutionary War Artillery Linstock

Being offered is a Revolutionary War Artillery Linstock. It is blacksmith-made of iron and is 6” wide, 9 ½” high and would take a 1 ¼” wooden pole.

A linstock is an iron staff with a fork at one end to hold a lighted slow match. Linstocks were used for discharging cannons in the early days of artillery; the linstock allowed the Cannonier to ignite the fuse on a loaded Cannon from a small distance. It was introduced in the 16th Century when the quality of both Cannons and Powder was very much a hit or miss proposition. Not only could the charge flash back, but the recoil of the cannon might send the carriage toward the gunner.

This example, which we believe dates to around 1720 – 1780.  The hand forged Linstock head was kept burning for hours in close proximity to the artillery. With a continual fire source there was no concern to "strike a match" so to speak when action was needed. Actually, there is a famous painting of General Washington with a linstock firing the first shot at Yorktown (see pictures).

This artifact remains in very nice condition, having some overall roughness, but no chipping or flaking. Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. 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 price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.