1863 Antique Ship Plaque from Naval Shipyards in Annapolis, Md

By smoky, 13 February, 2014
Description

This ship plaque came from my grandfather who was a certified welder in the very late 1800's and early 1900s.  I believe this military plaque came from a warship (Monitor or Merrimac perhaps?).  The inscription on the plaque is still quite easy to read in certain light and it says:

English Iron

Received Apr 4, 1863

ROM j. Killpatrick

 

This plaque is extremely  heavy (maybe 50 lbs) and measures approximately 8 inches high by 10 inches wide and approximately 2 inches thick with two "handles" with holes in them whereby it was screwed into something (likely a ship?).

 

Category
Militaria
Medium
Cast Iron ?
Distinguishing marks
ROM j. Killpatrick
Condition
Good
Size and dimensions of this item
8" X 10" X 2"
Date Period
1863
Weight
not sure but approximately 50 lbs
History
Inherited this item from my grandfather who was a master ship welder. I am not sure but I think the story associated with this item is that it was removed from the MONITOR or MERRIMAC when discovered on the shores of the Eastern coastline. My grandfather was the master welder at the Naval shipyards in Annapolis, Maryland.
Price Paid (If known)
Inherited it
For Sale?
Yes
Photos