Discovery of 1836 Alamo Cannonballs

Archaeologists have revealed a recent discovery at the historic Alamo site in San Antonio, Texas. A cannonball believed to be from the legendary 1836 Battle of the Alamo was uncovered on June 2, sparking interest in its historical significance. This finding was made public by the Alamo Trust on June 16, continuing the narrative of discoveries at the historical site.

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The cannonball was found just outside the northeast corner of the Alamo Church, unearthed in a nearby excavation unit where another cannonball was discovered in March. Pictures highlight the rust-covered iron cannonball, embracing an orange-brown hue, indicating its age and historical significance.

Director of archaeology at the Alamo, Tiffany Lindley, pointed out the importance of its depth at which both cannonballs were found, suggesting they remained untouched since possibly 1836. This depth contributes to their historical preservation, a rare phenomenon considering the extensive activity the site has undergone over the years.

The Battle of the Alamo marked a pivotal moment in Texas history, lasting from February 23 to March 6, 1836. Texian forces, including figures like Davy Crockett and William B. Travis, faced Mexican forces in a siege that ended with Mexican troops prevailing. Yet, it fueled the spirit of the Texas Revolution.

Despite thorough activity in the area over the decades, including military presence and commercial development, the discovery of the second cannonball is a remarkable achievement. Lindley expressed her surprise over the find, especially with the first cannonball made from solid bronze and the second from solid iron. Though the iron cannonball isn’t as well preserved, both are considered for conservation efforts.

Ongoing excavations continue to yield various artifacts related to the Battle of the Alamo. Lindley noted that the site uncovers numerous historic artifacts regularly, alongside everyday objects like nails and bricks. These remnants offer insights into past lives at the site, adding depth to the understanding of the historic location.

While the cannonball discovery is significant, it merely represents a fraction of the ongoing work. As excavations conclude, the analysis of collected data will enrich the understanding of the site’s historical inhabitants, offering a window into their daily routines and experiences.