Fine Civil War Battle Rattle Naval Alarm Authentic Wood Signaling Device Antique
Civil War Battle Rattle Naval Alarm Authentic Wood Signaling Device. There are no markings on this rattle. The item is in era-used condition. This means flaws are present including but not limited to scuffs, stains, scratches, etc. It has been tested and does still work. Be aware, it is incredibly loud! This rattle is well constructed and features a peg handle to assist in rotation. It's truly a piece of history and would make a wonderful piece for collectors of US Military and Civil War Memorabilia/Antiques. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT BATTLE RATTLES. These rare noise makers duplicate the sound of the firing of numerous muskets and were also used to sound a general alarm.
They were mostly used by smaller Navy vessels to alert sailors of a boarding attempt or other emergency. Battle Rattles were made of oak or other hardwoods and when turned or spun on the handle, made a loud repetitive machine-gun-like sound which was a call to General Quarters for all members of the crew. There were two models or types of battle rattle, a large two-handled one affixed to and located on the main deck and smaller ones used by individual sailors designated to sound the alarm (such as this one).
Battle Rattles were used by most of the world's navies but predominantly today are ones found that were used by the British and American navies during the 19th century. Most all battle rattles were made with a combination of screws and wooden pegs or dowels holding everything in place, and to be easily disassembled to make repairs when needed. As you can imagine no matter how well made these battle rattles would only last so long due to the impact made by the cogged wheel being drawn over and hit by the stiff wooden flapper.
(Generalized Information provided by "The Union Drummer Boy"). ITEMS BEING DONATED DAILY IN PREPARATION FOR STORE RE-BRANDING.GET IT BEFORE IT'S GONE!