Civil War Fort in the Burbs

[NolanTheExplorer]

On Sunday I had the privilege of metal detecting in and around an old civil war fort that is now all but gone. The area, along a valley that was once vast with fields and dotted with mills is now just another neighborhood in the suburb of Washington DC. The home, which I detected, sits directly center of where the fort once stood. The only remains of the earthen and wood fortification is the large brick powder room. This powder room is a treat to be able to visit and spend time in. It felt like I was on hallowed ground when I began walking down the steps into the underground. Names of Soldiers and their units are still visible on the plastered brick walls. The columns and craftsmanship is a true marvel. I’ll let the pictures do the talking. All finds come from Saturday and Sunday and were found both inside the fort and outside (which consisted of seeking permission from 3 different homeowners). The legwork was months in the making but it was nice to finally get out there and dig..both days of the week! On Saturday I was outside the fort walls with IFoundIt (link to Saturday post here). That hunt was great as IFoundIt found a few J Hooks. Although I was solo on Sunday, hopefully we can both get back there another day soon and unearth some nice CW relics soon…

I would love some help on the iron piece. It measures about 17 inches. Could it be a rusted out bayonet? It was within the forts perimeter. Has anyone seen a naval/merchant button like that? Thoughts on the horse would be of interest as well.

Best of luck to all.

 

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[Wldbil]

Very cool area and finds... Congrats

 

[ynpto804]

Wow I had no idea Elvis fought in the war between the states! Nice finds it looks like you have a good spot. I dont believe you piece of iron is a bayonet it seems too big Keep at it I'm sure there is more.

 

[Gunrunner61]

Cool finds and Great pictures Don't think you have a bayonet keep up the good work.

 

[NolanTheExplorer]

Forgot to post these finds which were from the Sunday hunt.
What is the tag that reads "PH" thats a little smaller than a dime. I've seen them on here before but forget what they are exactly.
I recall some people are into collecting them.
DHD

 

[Ifoundit69]

Congratulations on the fine relics man , the lead P.H item is a bail seal . And that powder room looks like a place ghost hunters should investigate spooky looking but cool !

 

[NolanTheExplorer]

When I was leavin the owner asked if I detected in the powder room. I said no. He said next time give it a try. He went onto day as long as I put the bricks back, he's got no problem with it.

 

[Papa Bear]

Thanks for posting photos of the powder room. Kudos to the owner for saving it and not paving it over. Some real history there. Well done!!

 

[RiverRat3]

Very nice recoveries. I am sure there is plenty more waiting to be found.

 

[CASPER-2]

Nice assortment of finds

 

[Dig Daddy]

Holy-Coin-oly, Jealous and drooling. GREAT finds, congrats...