Three cannon-replicas destined for Oglethorpe Park

The first of three cannons to be mounted at Oglethorpe Battery Park in Davis Shores is being set to a frame at the City of St Augustine warehouse on West King Street today, according to an announcement received by local Historic City News reporters.

Oglethorpe Battery Park, located at Arredondo Avenue and Oglethorpe Boulevard, is the site of a 38-day bombardment of the town and Castillo de San Marcos that occurred between June 13 and July 20, 1740, and was led by Georgia General James Oglethorpe.

“The carriages that hold the cannons are being formed in concrete, with wood color and texture, at the city warehouse,” Project Chair Ric Erkelens said. “The remaining two of the three 1,120 pound, 18th century replica cannons, cast at Hern Iron Works in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, are expected to arrive at the warehouse tomorrow.”

Nearly $10,000 has been raised through donations. Each cannon costs $2,245 with shipping estimated at $1,500. The Committee says that they envision other historic military sites, in and around St. Augustine, which the committee hopes they can enhance in support of their vision.

“The 450 Military Committee, North Davis Shores Neighborhood Association, and City of St. Augustine are cooperating to accomplish this installation,” Erkelens reported. “Since 1938, a lone obelisk has stood marking the site of the Oglethorpe Battery.”

The Committee proposed 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.

Ceremonies to dedicate the cannons will be held Sunday, June 30, at 10:30 am at Oglethorpe Battery Park, featuring active duty admirals representing the US and British Royal Navy among the speakers.