Kevin:

Looks like a thumb screw to me...not uncommon at all on 19th c. cemeteries.

Jamie

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Dr. Jamie C. Brandon
Arkansas Archeological Survey 
Southern Arkansas University Research Station &
Research Assistant Professor
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
http://www.projectpast.org/jcbrandon/
http://www.saumag.edu/archeology/
GO MULERIDERS!
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-----Original Message-----
From: HISTORICAL ARCHAEOLOGY [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of ACR Consultants, Inc.-Kevin O'Dell
Sent: Tuesday, May 11, 2010 1:06 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Funerary Artifact ID Question

While excavating a mass-burial trench at 19th century military cemetery, we encountered what appears to be a decorative finial.  The artifact is made from a lead alloy and appears to have had an iron screw at the base (most of the screw has deteriorated).  Our initial thoughts were that the artifact may be part of badge, medal, or other decorative object affiliated with a fraternal organization.  Has anyone else encountered a similar object?  A detail photo of the artifact can be found at the following link:

http://i852.photobucket.com/albums/ab86/acrc-com/Cemetary%20Finial%20-09/Finial/CemeteryFinial.jpg

Thanks in advance.

Kevin O'Dell
Principal Investigator & President
ACR Consultants, Inc.
1423 O'Dell Court
Sheridan, WY 82801
T: 307-673-5966
F: 307-673-4908
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