CIVIL WAR GRAPE SHOT FROM THE BATTLE OF ATLANTA

Iron, about 1” diameter. Purchased from Schindler’s Antiques, King Street, Charleston, SC in the 1980s. Grape shot or canister shot (indistinguishable after firing) was used both on land and at sea to decimate closely grouped enemies. When used against cavalry, the greatest casualties were inflicted against the horses. These are from the Battle of Atlanta, July 22, 1864. Lincoln’s reelection is credited in large measure to the success of that battle.