Spanish-American Cannon 'A'
N 27° 36.912 W 082° 44.131
17R E 328742 N 3055779
One of two cannons from the Spanish-American War on display at Ft De Soto.
Waymark Code: WM1W8H
Location: Florida, United States
Date Posted: 07/19/2007
Views: 78
Spanish-American War Cannons from Egmont Key
This 6-inch rapid fire rifle was purchased from England in 1898, because the United States did not have the capability to produce a small, rapid fire weapon for the defense of its principal harbors. The advent of the Spanish-American War taught about the need for such weapons in this area due to the close proximity of Cuba to Florida.
Funding for these guns was included in the appropriation for the "National Defense Act" of March 9, 1898. The installation was completed as a part of the armamaent of Fort Dade on Egmont Key, on December 19, 1898. (Approximately 2 miles southwest of where you are now.) The guns were placed under the command of an artillery detachment sent from St Francis Barracks in St Augustine. Only a limited number of these particular weapons were purchased by our government and these two rifles are believed to be the only remaining models still in existence.
These weapons, weighing 17 tons each, were breech-loaded, utilizing shell cases that were refillable with 13 1/4 pounds of powder. The projectiles weighed 100 pounds and had a maximum range of 10,000 yards (5.68 miles) reaching such a target in 18.12 seconds.
Fort Dade was deactivated in 1921 and these guns, which were intended to defend the southwest pass into Tampa Bay, were left to the mercy of the elements.
On April 12, 1980, Pinellas County recovered these cannons from Egmont Key. After two years of refurbishing, they were installed here on March 19, 1982.
What type of artillery is this?: Cannon
Where is this artillery located?: Military Grounds
What military of the world used this device?: United States
Date artillery was in use: 12/19/1898
Date artillery was placed on display: 03/19/1982
Cost?: 1.00 (listed in local currency)
Still may work: yes
Parking location to view this Waymark: Not Listed
Artillery is no longer operational: Not Listed
Are there any geocaches at this location?: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
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