Historical information

The cannon was left on Churchill Island after the last private resident left and the Island was purchased by the Victorian State Government. During the time of ownership by Samuel Amess, the cannon was positioned in the front garden facing the bay. In 1982, the Victorian Conservation Trust sought to identify the manufacture and provenance of the cannon. Images held within the Churchill Island Museum and Archive demonstrate the annual use of the cannon by the Amess family, in particular the firing of the cannon on New Years Eve of each year.

Significance

The cannon provides important interpretation of both the family and social history of Samuel Amess during his lifetime and his occupation as private resident of Churchill Island.

Physical description

Six pounder cast iron smooth bore cannon on white painted wooden carriage with wheels.

Inscriptions & markings

860
FRECK