Anthropology, Department of
Date of this Version
2002
Abstract
Two minié ball bullets, each with a different caliber and similar longitudinal lines were recovered at Pea Ridge National Military Park during the fieldwork conducted there in March 2001. Thefunction of these lines was unknown. Several hypotheses were advanced to explain the Irfarkings. However, through detailed mathematic and microscope analysis, it has been determined that the lines were made by the same process and machine and may have served as a point of attachment for an experimental cartridge made of either metal, cloth, or paper. The bullets may have been part of a pre-Civil War experiment and found action in the hands of either the Federals or the Confederates, once hostilities broke out.
Comments
Published in Nebraska Anthropologist Vol. 17 (2001-2002). Copyright © Don Arp, Jr.; published by The University of Nebraska-Lincoln AnthroGroup.