“I Powder With My Brother Ball;” Analyzing Powder Horns From Colonial New England

Abstract

This paper analyzes the engravings of powder horns in 18th century New England, primarily from the Seven Years War and the American Revolution. These horns offer unique insights into the lives of the largely anonymous men who fought in these wars. The horns are first evaluated from a cultural perspective, looking at references to religion, love, and death. Secondly, the horns are analyzed from a political perspecitve, focusing on the shifting loyalties of New Englanders away from the British King and toward a new nation.