A unique Civil War relic located on the grounds of Athens City Hall, this is the only one of its kind in the world. Designed in 1863 by John Gilleland, the cannon was meant to fire two balls connected by a chain to "mow down the enemy like a scythe." It failed spectacularly during testing when the balls fired at different times, creating unpredictable trajectories. Today, it's a beloved landmark pointing north as a symbolic warning to potential invaders.
Historic Locations
Double-Barreled Cannon.
A unique Civil War relic located on the grounds of Athens City Hall, this is the only one of its kind in the world. Designed in 1863 by John Gilleland, the cannon was meant to fire two balls connected by a chain to "mow down the enemy like a scythe." It failed spectacularly during testing when the balls fired at different times, creating unpredictable trajectories. Today, it's a beloved landmark pointing north as a symbolic warning to potential invaders.
- City Hall, 301 College Ave, Athens, GA 30601
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