Unknown button

[Digger]

This is the second button of this type I have found at the site of Fort Atkinson, and I'd like to see if anyone can identify it. Fort Atkinson dates from 1850-1854, but the site could have also been the location of an earlier fort called Fort Mann(1845-1848). It was first manned by the Dragoons. The button is about the size of a standard cuff button of the time.

I'm looking for a possible time line and use(Military/Civilian)

Here it is with a musket ball found near it.

 

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[DCMatt]

Digger,

My buddy dug a similar style button at a house site in northern Virginia (DC suburbs). We believe our site dates from the 1830s - 40s.

DCMatt

 

[crazyjarhead]

Nice find and good luck getting it identified. Someone will be able too

 

[BioProfessor]

Digger! A musketball for a size reference?

Daryl

 

[Montana Jim]

Digger! A musketball for a size reference?

Daryl

Which obviously begs the next question... what caliber is the musketball?

 

[Digger]

Hehe Oops

 

[Montana Jim]

I have no idea about it's military or civilian use, but expect that it's civilian based on face design. 19th centurty military uniforms all had specific button designs until the confederates used civilian buttons out of necessity. Either way - it's individual history is forever lost.

Based on what I see I'd say it's late 18th through mid 19th century.

It's pretty basic... no markings, one piece dome button with a basic design and a common metal loop shank.

 

[BuckleBoy]

I'm with Jim on this--it's old. And it certainly predates your fort--brought in on someone's clothing, or kept for a while, but made a good bit earlier.

I also believe it is civilian most likely. If it was military, there'd be no way to prove it. If it were, it was probably just a temporary replacement button.


Best wishes,



Buckles