Revolutionary War Artillery Grapeshot, recovered at Ogdensburg, NY (SOLD)

Being offered is a Revolutionary War grapeshot with a diameter of 1.10 inches. These exploding shells were used by both sides during the war (see pictures). This ball would be part of a canister shell, which when fired was like a shotgun blast (see pictures). It was recovered many years ago at Ogdensburg, NY.

In 1760 at Ogdensburg, the British occupied a fort and renamed it Fort Oswegatchie. They used Oswegatchie during the Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1783. Captain George Forster led a detachment of the King’s 8th from Fort Oswegatchie and defeated the Americans at the Battle of the Cedars in 1776.  On June 10, 1779, Fort Oswegatchie was attacked by an American detachment from Fort Stanwix, a retaliatory attack on Fort Stanwix took 29 prisoners and three scalps.

In June 1782, Capt. Robertson, the Fort Commandant since May 1779, led a destructive attack on Ellice’s Mill at Little Falls. Wheat, flour and a quantity of Indian corn belonging to Congress, and approximately the same amount owned by local inhabitants, plus a quantity of salt pork and beef were destroyed. This raid is mentioned in the novel “Drums Along The Mohawk”.

After the cessation of hostilities, the British refused to give up Fort Oswegatchie to the victorious Americans. It is one of the five forts along the frontier they retained. Jay’s Treaty signed November 19, 1794, contains the provision that the British evacuate the frontier posts by June 1, 1796. This ball still has the old tag on it and comes in the acrylic display case pictured.

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 price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in sales.