Archaeologists have uncovered a cannonball possibly fired during the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. This discovery occurred shortly after a similar find just three months prior. The discovery was made on June 2, with an announcement from the Alamo Trust on June 16. The trust is responsible for managing the Alamo Mission site.
Recent Discoveries
It was found outside the northeast corner of the Alamo Church in an adjacent excavation unit, where another intact cannonball was unearthed in March.
Images show significant rust on the newly discovered iron cannonball, giving it an orange-brown appearance. Given its proximity to the first cannonball and its depth in the ground, experts believe it remained untouched for nearly 190 years.
“So whenever they were dropped, the very first time — possibly in 1836 — they haven’t been touched since,” remarked Tiffany Lindley, the director of archaeology at the Alamo.
“And that’s what makes them extra special.”
The Battle’s Historical Context
The Battle of the Alamo holds a pivotal place in Texas history, occurring from February 23 to March 6, 1836. The Texian forces, including notable figures like Davy Crockett and William B. Travis, were besieged by a much larger Mexican army. Although the defenders ultimately fell, their effort became a key turning point and rallying cry in the Texas Revolution.
Current Research Efforts
The finding of a second cannonball surprised researchers. Despite extensive historical usage of the site, including periods of military and commercial activity, the scientists continue to unearth significant artifacts.
“We find what gets left behind, and often that means broken and discarded items,” Lindley explained.
This newly found cannonball has not preserved as well as the bronze cannonball. The iron material contributed to its deterioration.
“However, it’s still in pretty good condition,” stated Lindley. The team plans to send both artifacts for conservation efforts.
Further Archaeological Work
The ongoing excavations yield numerous historical artifacts daily. These include both exciting finds, like cannonballs, and more mundane items, such as nails and bricks.
“We are finding dozens of exciting historic artifacts every day,” Lindley shared. “Along with hundreds of maybe not so exciting artifacts.”
While the cannonballs hold historical significance, Lindley emphasizes they are only part of a broader archaeological venture. “After excavations end, analysis of the data will provide valuable insight into the daily lives of the inhabitants of the site,” she concluded.