It is indeed a thumbscrew. It is made of white metal, which like a pewter mix. It probably postdates 1860 and predates 1900.

Pat Garrow


-----Original Message-----
>From: "Jamie C. Brandon" <[log in to unmask]>
>Sent: May 11, 2010 2:27 PM
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Re: Funerary Artifact ID Question
>
>Kevin:
>
>Looks like a thumb screw to me...not uncommon at all on 19th c. cemeteries.
>
>Jamie
>
>---
>I am [log in to unmask] or [log in to unmask]
>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!
> please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
>
>
>
>
>-----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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