STE GENEVIEVE —The Ste Genevieve VFW’s Cannon restoration has been delayed by an unexpected surprise.
While sandblasting old layers of paint off the gun it was revealed that there are many bronze and brass parts all around on the gun.
After some Cannon Restoration Committee meetings and much historical research, it was determined that all these bronze & brass parts were originally never meant to be covered with paint.
To restore the cannon back to original, the parts must be left unpainted. A clear-coating of these parts/pieces is being discussed.
In World War I with a 10-man artillery crew assigned to each gun there was plenty of help to keep the cannon clean, painted, polished and in A-1 firing order.
So why did they use so many bronze/brass parts on this artillery piece?
First these bronze/brass parts were easier, quicker, and less expensive to cast than iron or steel.
Most importantly though bronze and brass are non-sparking metals which makes them ideal for use in a possibly flammable area.
Sparks created by striking iron and steel are a dangerous source of ignition when used near flammable materials such as 60 pound artillery shells and eight pound bags of cordite explosive powder charges.
Hopefully, clear-coating will solve any problems.
We at Post 2210 miss the big gun. We are sad that there is an empty spot on the lawn up on top of Memorial Hill.
Hopefully she will soon come home to rest again.
We need and are seeking donations from businesses and individuals to help defray the cost of: transporting, sandblasting, repairing rusted and damaged parts, priming & painting, site improvements, maintenance, and now clear-coating.
Donations may be made by family or friends in the name of all U.S. Veterans.
To donate call: Carl Okenfuss at 573-535-4788 or Paul Brischle at 573-535-1505
Or mail to:
Ste. Genevieve VFW Post 2210
852 Memorial Drive
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
If mailed, please include: “In Memory of” or “In Honor of” Your Veteran. Veterans name, nick name, middle initial, branch of service, your name and your phone number.
Make checks payable to: VFW Post 2210 Ste. Genevieve “the big gun project”.
Thank you in advance for your help.
The following photos show the brass and bronze parts of the gun:
