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Discovery of Ancient Gun in Arizona: A Historic Find
A recent excavation along the Santa Cruz River in Southern Arizona has unveiled a remarkable artifact—the oldest firearm believed to have been found in the continental United States. Researchers have identified this bronze cannon, or wall gun, as linked to the notorious expedition led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado between 1539 and 1542 in search of the fabled “Seven Cities of Cíbola.”
According to a study published in the International Journal of Historical Archaeology on November 21, 2024, this wall gun is the first of its kind associated with Coronado’s short-lived quest and is potentially the oldest cannon documented on the continent.
Significance of the Discovery
Dr. Deni J. Seymour and her research team noted, “This wall gun is the first gun known to be associated with the Coronado expedition and is the oldest firearm ever found within the continental USA, and perhaps the oldest cannon currently known on the continent.” This remarkable find sheds light on the tools and technology of the era.
The expedition aimed to uncover the riches rumored to be located in the mythical cities, but instead of treasure, Coronado encountered indigenous settlements, including landmarks like the Grand Canyon, as noted by Britannica.
Details of the Artifact
The firearm measures approximately 42 inches in length and weighs around 40 pounds. It was discovered on the site of San Geronimo III, specifically laying on the floor of a stone-and-adobe building. To accurately date the artifact, researchers employed a combination of radiocarbon dating and optically stimulated luminescence techniques, confirming its origin during the Coronado expedition period.
Experts believe the cannon was likely manufactured in Mexico or the Caribbean, inferred from its straightforward design. It was intended to be mounted on a wooden tripod to fortify defenses, capable of launching lead balls over 700 yards.
Abandonment and Historical Context
Remarkably, the wall gun was discovered unloaded, with no signs of having been fired. It appears the firearm was abandoned and left in the settlement for centuries. Research suggests that the town may have faced an attack, leading to its rapid desertion. “This final blow seems to be the precipitating event that led to the abandonment of the wall gun, where it remained snugly encased in an eroded Spanish adobe-and-rock-walled structure [ruin] for 480 years,” the study asserts.
Additional artifacts were also uncovered during the excavation, including remnants of swords, daggers, and everyday items such as fishhooks and clothing fasteners, offering further insight into the life and struggles of those who once occupied the area.
As further analysis is set to occur, researchers hope to extract more information about the wall gun and the other artifacts retrieved from the site, contributing to a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in American history.
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