Three cannons were mounted at Oglethorpe Battery Park in Davis Shores this morning, and former mayor, George Gardner, was on hand to share the excitement as Sunday’s dedication ceremony grows closer.
With the frames in place around each cannon, concrete can be poured in place to safely support the replica weapons for permanent display.
“City workers have taken on a unique task of prepping and sealing the 18th century replica cannons,” the former mayor told Historic City News. “Although the materials being used are concrete, they are of a wood design and colored to emulate wooden gun carriages of the period, adding to the authentic look.”
Ceremonies to dedicate the cannons will be held Sunday, June 30, at 10:30 am, with active duty admirals representing the US and British Royal Navy among the speakers.
The 1,120 pound replica cannons were cast at Hern Iron Works in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Each cannon costs $2,245 with shipping estimated at $1,500. The 450th Military Commemoration Committee raised some $13,000 through donations for the project.
The setting is the site of Georgia General James Oglethorpe’s battery during a 38-day bombardment of the town and Castillo de San Marcos June 13 – July 20, 1740.
The City of St Augustine, the North Davis Shores Neighborhood Association, and 450th Military Committee, have partnered to produce this project. The St. Augustine British Club has funded a flagpole for a British colonial flag.
Enhancement of the Oglethorpe Battery, which has had an obelisk marking the site since 1938, is one of many envisioned historic military sites in and around St. Augustine which the 450th Military Committee hopes to enhance.
Its vision is to establish St Augustine as the premier destination for learning about the vital role of the military — as demonstrated by 450 years of continuous protection of our city, our state, and our nation.
Photo credits: © 2013 Historic City News contributed photograph by George Gardner
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