Double Barrel Cannon | Athens City

The Double Barrel Cannon is a historical artillery piece located in Athens, Georgia, USA.

This unique cannon is a significant artifact of Civil War-era military technology.

Visual Characteristics

The Double Barrel Cannon is a cast-iron muzzle-loading cannon. It features two parallel barrels of approximately 3.75 inches (95 mm) bore diameter, mounted on a standard Civil War-era field carriage. The overall length of the cannon, including the carriage, is approximately 10 feet (3 meters). The iron is weathered and shows signs of age.

Location & Access Logistics

The Double Barrel Cannon is situated in Athens, Georgia, within the grounds of the Athens-Clarke County Heritage Room, located at 254 West Washington Street. It is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) west of the downtown Athens core. Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Public transport options are limited to local bus routes serving Washington Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

This cannon was designed and patented by Captain John G. Butler of the U.S. Army Ordnance Department in 1862. Its intended purpose was to provide increased firepower by firing two shots simultaneously. While several prototypes were built, the design proved impractical for battlefield use due to its weight and recoil issues. This specific example is a historical artifact from the American Civil War period.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the cannon's unique dual-barrel design is the primary activity. Visitors can examine the construction and understand its historical context. Interpretive signage provides details on its development and limited military application.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The cannon is located outdoors. Restrooms are available within the Athens-Clarke County Heritage Room building. Shade is minimal. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in this area. No food vendors are located directly at the site; options are available in nearby downtown Athens.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during daylight hours, with morning light offering softer illumination on the cannon's surface. Any time of year is suitable for visiting, as the cannon is an outdoor exhibit. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable fact is that despite its innovative concept, the Double Barrel Cannon was never officially adopted by the Union Army for widespread deployment. Its complexity and weight made it less effective than conventional single-barreled cannons in field conditions.

Nearby Landmarks

• Athens-Clarke County Heritage Room (0.0km West)
• Founders Memorial Garden (0.8km East)
• State Botanical Garden of Georgia (2.5km Southwest)
• Morton Theatre (1.2km East)
• Georgia Museum of Art (1.8km Northeast)