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Captain Peter Perit used this horn at the Siege of Boston in 1775. The decorations on it include the lion and unicorn from the British Royal Coat of Arms. The horn also bears the motto “Success to America” and a pine tree, a symbol of New England. In 1775, Americans fought for their liberty but still considered themselves loyal subjects of the British Crown.  

Object Details

  • Powder Horn
    Attributed to Jacob Gay
    Temple Farm, Massachusetts
    December 20, 1775
    Horn (cow), Wood (pine), Iron, Ink
    Museum of the American Revolution
    2015.21.0001

Image 092220 16x9 Philadelphia Powder Horn Collection Item Philadelphiapowderhorn 0
 

Philadelphia Powder Horn

This decoratively engraved powder horn includes a view of Philadelphia’s busy waterfront on the eve of the American Revolution.
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Image 091120 Samuel Dudley Powder Horn Collection Samueldudleyspowderhorn
 

Samuel Dudley's Powder Horn

This charming powder horn was decorated for a New England soldier Samuel Dudley serving in Warwick, Rhode Island, in December 1777.
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Image 091120 William Waller Powder Horn Collection 1775 Wallerpowderhorn
 

William Waller's Powder Horn

This powder horn was carried by Virginia rifleman William Waller and is etched with the slogan "LIBERTY or DEATH."
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