Incredible Civil War Collection Hidden 50 Years in Secret Room Behind Steel Doors, REVEALED!

[@lostbear53]

I am 70 and I haven't been this excited since last year when I got to ride a horse for the 1st time in 50 yrs... Thank you for posting. Can't wait for more

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

That makes me super-happy bear! We'll try not to disappoint!

[@davidallison2112]

I'm thrilled that the gentleman who built this collection had the great wisdom to see that it was passed on to wonderful new caretakers who will ensure its continued preservation so that future generations will be able to learn from it. There's a lesson there for all of us - we are temporary caretakers of the relics we find and must ensure they will be preserved to that future Americans can learn from them.

[@thurin84]

so very true.

[@RelicDog]

Had this been donated to a museum, we’d never see 90% of this, and all the time he invested in this great hobby would never be appreciated. Thank you for being the kind of man that this collector felt would do his collection honor. And thank you for sharing this first look with all of us! Incredible!! Thank you!!

[@KB-ke3fi]

Hopefully they will understand the real truth instead of the revisionist lie in history books about the useless war.

[@sosteve9113]

Most interesting museums are the private ones

[@tomwhite716]

Is there a Geraldo Rivera alert coming?

[@oooolah]

You can tell how much this guy loved his collection just by how much care each item was placed in the case with. Amazing!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

No doubt Eric. Appreciate that insight . . .

[@michelegrice4938]

What a fabulous collection, he certainly loved what he collected and took care of it. Lifelong passion that's not going to be forgotten, and he certainly handed it on to the right person. Enjoy your new collection it's beautiful.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Mich, but it's not either of us. The new owner just wanted the world to SEE it, without the world knowing where it would be kept, if you get my drift . . .

[@andrewkrzykowski3489]

Obsession, compulsion, passion. Thank goodness for people who want to get their hands on history like this guy. Hope this collection will be properly displayed to the public one day, not just for the sake of the artefacts, but as a record of this man’s work. Great video. Andy.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Andy. There aren't many collection like this that weren't purchased but (mostly) dug!

[@ruckus7554]

I grew up around Northern Va and we would go into the woods in Manassas in the early 80s and find a lot of the buttons and buckles all over the place. Found a bunch of rifle parts too. It's good to see some of this preserved and loved.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Man, you are KILLING me! I tried hunting in Chantilly ONCE. Red clay EVERYWHERE I stuck a shovel . . .

[@pamtnman1515]

I started my career in DC in 1991, and many of my co workers and neighbors had been searching the woods and fields for decades. They had incredible collections, including a lot of rare firearms and edged weapons. Some private collections took up entire living rooms

[@richardharris7572]

What a honor and opportunity that you have to just be able to see that collection! It was awesome to see so much stuff from one collector. That is truly a museum worthy collection!!! I can’t wait to see more. And I am not even a metal detector guy😂. But a huge Civil War fan. Thank you!!!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Love that Richard. You would be in heaven locked in that room, then!

[@isaiahpetersen]

Incredible. These relics need to be properly preserved and cataloged in a museum. Heck, start your own museum!

[@diggernash1]

Only if the museum pays for them. These are private property.

[@G53X0Y0Z0]

I have mixed feelings about museums. Some essentially confiscate items they get their hands on, so unless you intend to give them the items you have to be careful about letting them take possession without valid paperwork that protects your interests.

[@mattedwards4533]

@@G53X0Y0Z0 You are correct! I let a museum use some of my artifacts. Cannon balls buckles and shells. I even let them use my GG Granfathers bibles on both sides of my family. Now I wasn't able to get them back? I had a lawyer friend that was there when I loaned my relics to the museum and am hoping ,with his help to get my things. You advice should be heeded!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

@@mattedwards4533 Whoa. How sad . . . and WRONG!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I believe the new owner MAY start a museum of some kind - right now, he's just trying to wrap his head around his new responsibility!

[@Dee-743]

I thoroughly enjoyed this. We live near a battlefield and my dad was a Civil War buff. He knew all about it. Relic hunting was his hobby. He too had so many of these items. It reminds me of my sweet dad who is no longer with us. My brother inherited his relics.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I am SO glad this brought back sweet memories for you Chooge!

[@AndrexT]

An absolutely amazing collection. We see people like Aquachigger finding a 'box plate' or an 'eagle rosette', but to actually see what a cartridge box looks like inside, with the plate on the outside is just so informative. All this stuff would make a wonderful museum exhibit, and a lasting legacy to its original owner. I subscribed, I look forward to seeing it all in detail. Thank you.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Andrex, I hope we don't disappoint you! And I agree, context is everything!

[@aliasfred]

I also started hunting in 1960, only have a handful of Minnies from Miller's cornfield near Spring Hill Farm. We, as a group were the last people legally in the cornfield before they turned it into state protected property. I am 73 now and because of back issues, I don't get out much anymore. I live in Michigan. And I have collected different kinds of relics.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Wow! To be the LAST ones before they left the rest to rot . . . Thank you Fred, for saving what you could!!!

[@jayjones6904]

Blown away by amount of csa stuff better than big museums thank God he saved and preserved artifacts ty again guys for honor of seeing this collection

[@garymozingo3383]

Unbelievable collection and to think of all the holes that were dug and the machines that ran across them. Long gone are the endless relics being released from mother earth, but he had the foresight to preserve them for future generations to enjoy. Every relic has a story and this room speaks volumes. Cant think of a better person to put it in order. I can hear nothing but total passion in your voice when you speak civil war, my kind of guy. Looking forward to your upcoming videos Walker...what a treasure and testament to a real relic hunter...

[@VincentBeauvais-n3y]

Believe it or not, the stuff is coming out of the ground in my state, which is Taxachusetts, most every state has specific places in them to detect that I have found. I have not detected anywhere else out of state because of so many places around my area that are fully loaded with artifacts.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

@@VincentBeauvais-n3y Wow. That's good to hear . . .

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Gary. I really appreciate your many kind words.

[@michaelplybon5738]

I've been reenacting for over 35 years, I have found a few pieces and acquired a few by purchasing at reenactments acs relic shops. But, I have never seen such a fine collection as this gentleman's. I can only imagine finding something as exquisite as something in his collection. Thank you sirs for sharing, and I look forward to seeing more.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Appreciate that Michael!

[@michaelwalker6121]

I was 10 years old in 1964 and a friend and I went to the Park Forest, IL library to see a private collection of Civil War weapons, uniforms and other pieces. The owner was a very nice man and even allowed us to pick up the weapons and put some of the hats on. I can still picture my buddy in the Hardee hat. We were in absolute heaven !

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Dang, Michael! I can picture two little 10 year old boys with wide eyes . . . what a great experience!! Hardee Hat Heaven!

[@johnhearn4372]

What an awesome time to be alive, this hobby never gets old, the history and relics were fantastic

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Agreed, John!

[@ericmuncy7757]

Awesome collection ,it would be nice to see a picture of the man that passed. You can tell he put alot of work into his collection. 👍

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

The guy who inherited, is nervous about people knowing where these relics might be. The original hunter . . . then who were his friends . . . etc. HOWEVER I have asked the "receiver" if I can post a pic of the guy with his face blurred. We're trying to figure if any early digging pictures exist. Stay tuned . . .

[@dsbmwhacker]

My Great Grandfather was in the 26th. Ill Infantry (wounded at the Siege of Corinth) and re-enlisted in the 5th Ill Cavalry upon recovery. Three other relatives were in other Illinois units and two in Iowa Infantry/Cavalry units. Seeing such relics is awesome!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Whacker, how cool that you know about your ancestory!!!!!!!

[@Rick.1904]

I can't remember pausing a video more than this one. Mind boggling collection, one man's passion, so much history... Thanks for sharing. RIP to the man responsible for this unbelievable collection. I salute you sir.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Me too, Rick. And your kind words are appreciated.

[@mindyarnold5718]

Almost speechless.. WOW! SOOOO much history in there. Just finding a few pieces like those would be a dream come true!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Its crazy Mindy. Don't quit now . . . more of his collection airing the first week in August.

[@dnay65]

We just last week came back from Gettysburg where it was the 160 th Anniversary of Gettysburg Address and Bike Week! We did 4 days of battlefield tours and pure history before that began. I was in awe! This collection pushes my interest in war history even further down the rabbit hole! Thanks Walker! Can’t wait to see more!!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Dnay! It's addicting for sure!

[@johnsader8811]

7:25 when you removed 'the last supper' I expected to see THE grail! So happy to see such a reverent respect for one man's lifetime hobby & passion.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

John, you might just have posted the best reply! YES!!

[@mjlederman853]

All I can say is WOW!!!! My heart was beating so fast just watching y’all walk through there. I can only imagine what it felt like to be there In person.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

MJ, you have accurately described what it was like for us too! I just cant imagine how many miles he walked, and how many holes he dug!

[@gary4645]

This was unreal. To think that something like this existed and had gone unknown. Just remember in the hands of a great admirer of such relics these were passed to other great admirers and wont wind up piece parted out at a relic show.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Gary, we think alike! Thanks man.

[@nathanhatcher7096]

What a amazing collection that was found and owned by one individual! Sadly but understandable it seems that this person would not or didn't trust everyone else with his collection. I have recently taken an interest in civil war and Indian artifacts, and very much appreciate the time these guys have taken to bring to light such artifacts and would hope to see more of this collection very soon!! Thanks Nate

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Yes Nate. he lived alone and I guess he knew lots of people have been killed for a lot less! We have at least 2 more (and maybe 3) videos to shoot, edit and publish. We'll try not to disappoint!

[@johnnytungsong8719]

An absolutely amazing collection of artefacts, made even more amazing that they were collected by just one man! One thing I’m curious about and that is…when the gentleman found these items, where they found all in one specific area or State of the US, or found randomly around the US? Plus, were they found on the sites of battles…and if so, did he also find the remains of the soldiers who died in the battles?

[@333Hogwarts]

This is an amazing collection ! One that is a time capsule of a past long gone. The days of going hunting and having to make two or three trip back to the truck with all the stuff. I miss those times. Who would have ever thought that it would end ? Thank you both for sharing this collection and its history. You could have easily squirreled it away forever and we would have never know its past and future. Thank you again .

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks 333! We had a ball. And we have a lot more to come. This isn't the best stuff.

[@1americanrecon]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841e you selling the Asian porcelain and how to buy them?..if it’s a yes.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

@@1americanrecon Not my stuff, and I'll pass along your interest to the owner!

[@donniecanby9681]

The Battlefield Walker, Thanks for sharing this collection with us to see. Looking forward in seeing many more videos to come. I'm happy this collection was dug individually and history has been preserved. Donnie- Martinsburg, W.V. 🇺🇸

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Donnie, I really appreciate these comments. We think alike!

[@PiperX1X]

Absolutely amazing collection I was glued to the screen and didn’t dare fast forward in case I missed anything. The history that all this collection can teach others is immense and will continue to do so for generations and generations.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Jonathan.I sure hope so!

[@hegilliam]

This was a great show and tell. Thanks for taking the time. What a remarkable collection.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Appreciate your kind words, Gilliam!

[@BrendaPenepent]

What a wonderful legacy this man has left behind. He knew that his friend would cherish every item as he had done himself. Decade after decade he searched and compiled this collection of memories from history. The awe and reverence you both show as you uncover the pieces of the past is truly inspiring. This is a museum. Just Wow! ❤

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Bren, we so appreciate your kind words! We do indeed have MUCH respect for the collection, the original collector and the inheritor!

[@BrendaPenepent]

I’m so excited for you! I hope you are able to set this up as its own museum, perhaps close to one of the battlefields. I don’t trust museums to do the right thing. Good luck and best wishes! 🍀🍀🍀Bren

[@randyburdette2192]

I was completely astonished at the treasure trove of history gathered in that room. I started my Civil War addiction, as a 6 year old boy, living in Urbana, MD, 6 miles south of the Monocacy Battlefield. Visiting nearby Antietam, Harpers Ferry and of course, Gettysburg in the early 1960's. An awesome collection to see unveiled, thank you!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thank you Randy - we're cut from the same cloth!

[@thelakeman5207]

This is priceless! The entire collection belongs in a museum.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I hear you!

[@CarmineGambino-wc3vf]

Museums have enough they don't need anymore......

[@johnmacdonald2212]

No indiana jones...it is privately owned. Find your own crap and put it in a museum

[@scottjunge5992]

The last thing you want to do is donate them to museum. They won't show them and most likely destroy them, 😢

[@swlc5555]

If this entire collection was given to a museum literally 99.99% of these items would be put in boxes and placed in permanent storage. Nobody would ever see them except the museum curator. It wouldn't be surprising if the museum eventually deaccessioned the items and sold them to the public. Many have done that. Almost every Civil War museum already has a full collection of ordnance, bullets, belt buckles, etc. The only thing of interest to them would be the most rare items, and only if it can be attributed to the battle the museum represents.

[@johns4584]

That's just amazing, and to think it was all owned and collected by one man. Your collection really needs to be in a museum somewhere, where it could be displayed and examined by all...........

[@Jellybellycat]

Until the government decides to throw it out for political correctness.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

@@Jellybellycat Sadly . . . YES!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I get it! The owner DOES want it to be seen. he's figuring out how to safely accomplish that now.

[@rickross804able]

very cool! thanks for sharing and look forward to seeing the other videos

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks so much Rick. Two left. One hits August 4 (Muskets and swords of the collection) and the last is August 11. Buttons, buckles and plates.

[@kwm123123]

Just shows that nothing really "belongs" to us. We're just caretakers. What an amazing collection! Great video and I can't wait for more. Plus I'm a new subscriber.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Honored to have you KWM! We'll try not to disappoint!

[@jamesf4405]

Thank you for sharing this collection with us. It would be great if some of it could go to a deserving museum, so millions of others could appreciate it too.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

@thebattlefieldwalker2841 0 seconds ago I believe the new owner MAY start a museum of some kind - right now, he's just trying to wrap his head around his new responsibility!

[@dirtywhiteboy4963]

START A MUSEUM DON"T GIVE THAT AWAY! BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT IT WILL BE ....GIVEN AWAY! THANKS!

[@Eastsideguy]

Absolutely incredible collection. So THAT’S where are the relics are that we can’t seem to find lol! Such an amazing collection…thank you for sharing and bringing us along on your journey!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Ha! YES, Eastside! I love revealing this stuff . . .

[@oldmanballer5088]

Ok first video I ever seen on your channel and I’m hooked. Looking forward to doing a little binge watching!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

From one old man to another, I'm glad you are enjoying! Hope it continues . . .

[@1_fishin_magician153]

" Good Gravy Marie !! "....thumbs up from Lake George, NY

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Ha! There ya go, magician! Thumbs up back atcha Lake George!

[@1_fishin_magician153]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 .... thumbs up buddy ... I live in the Revolutionary history belt .. !! * if ya metal detect around here a helicopter shows up and scares you off ;-)

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

DANG man! @@1_fishin_magician153

[@almcgeehan8029]

Even better than the opening of King Tut's tomb! Thanks for taking us along on this journey.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Ha! At least no curses. Yet . . .

[@kevinthompson5827]

That is an amazing collection and I’m looking forward to seeing you guys go completely through it. I would think that the original owner probably would have just walked through the woods and found this stuff laying on top of the ground. Thank you for sharing this with me.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Kevin, agreed! Crazy. We won't go through it piece by piece, but we hope to call attention to some unusual stuff. And you're welcome!

[@JusDirtfishin]

That’s normally something you only see in a museum. Everything in that room is priceless. That is one lucky person to be gifted something like that. Awesome collection

[@mustangsally0928]

That was absolutely amazing. More than I’ve ever seen anywhere from anyone. Thank you very much!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

It was our pleasure and honor to record it Mustang Sally (Great name by the way!)

[@bassmangotdbluz]

New Subscriber. There is some incredible stuff there. I grew up in Manassas, so I too have walked many battlefields.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Honored to have you aboard Bass!

[@mikebaize6971]

I have always loved history and I really enjoy watching people going out and hunting for civil war relics and learning about them. Now with see some of the things you showed just the few really helped me understand what I have been looking at before. Like the cartridge box seeing people find the plate to it was cool but now I can see what it looked like awsome. Thank you for taking us along for the ride. I can't wait for the next videos. God bless you and your family my friend. God bless the man who worked hard to build such a beautiful collection.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Amen to everything you said, Mike. Context makes all the difference!

[@KolbeHoeper]

I'm really jealous of that stuff man because my ancestor was in the Irish volunteer and the very first battle he fought was Battle Of Bull Run. He was in the war from start to finish and survived luckily.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I wish I could trace family history like you have. Just WOW on your ancestor! The WHOLE 9 yards!

[@ProjectPast1565]

I can’t wait to see more videos on this collection. What an incredible gesture to leave it for someone who appreciates this history and educational opportunities this collection offers.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Absolutely Project! Agree 100% on all counts!

[@jimc12]

Thank you for sharing. Amazing stuff. Glad it's not going to be broken up by people who have no idea what they are looking at.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Me too Jim. It will stay together. For at least ONE generation . . .

[@Jenn_B]

First time viewer. This is an amazing video with a literal treasure trove of relics. The knowledge, passion, and respect shown in the video stood out to me the most....also, that this one man dug/discovered enough pieces to fill a museum. This is a historian's dream!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Jenn, you and I are cut from the same cloth! Glad to have you aboard, and since you're a first-timer to the Battlefield Walker, be sure to check out the follow-up videos of this collection. Part 2 deals with ordnance and miscellanea, Parts 3 & 4 are Buckles and Plates, and Swords and Muskets.

[@Jenn_B]

I certainly will be catching up on all videos!

[@davidolien2828]

Your expertise is what makes this special!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks David. But like most people, I know a lot about a very little!

[@jerrydineen2827]

A truly amazing collection of Civil War history and it would be a blessing to be able to catalog it like you're doing!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Jerry, heck yeah! BLESSING!! Thanks for being there along the way and encouraging me.

[@historyhoarder634]

The marked canteen is a CWera canteen that has been recovered in canvas for use during the later 1800’s through the Span Am War. There were so many surplus canteens left over after the war that the government just removed the bottom sling guides, recovered them and issued them out. The recovered ones are much more common than unaltered CW examples but still very cool.

[@sosteve9113]

Interesting I have a canteen from WWI with a canvas cover

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I learned something today History! Thank you.

[@RobbSanderson]

Great video,amazing collection! Have fun moving everything.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

And in the HEAT of summer! I just hoped a trooper wouldn't stop the guy in his truck and discover 75 artillery shells in the bed! (Though perfectly legal to own and transport. Just hard to explain!)

[@artwyoming]

Absolutely amazing! TY for sharing.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

It was honestly our pleasure to do it Art!

[@richardleighton5009]

Amazing collection , I too am a long time detectorist and the one thing i was looking for and did not see was a Civil War Bronze Star and Madallion. I found both here in Western Maine on a dig i was doing last year. Are they rare to find, is my question to you.?

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Richard, I'm afraid that's above my pay grade, but I would venture a guess that they must be pretty rare. I've never heard of one dug around here . . .

[@hercules1073]

Absolutely amazing to see this collection! Glad the title caught my attention! the new owner should definitely start a museum ... properly insured of course ... and let the collection be seen as it continues to grow. I've ran across handfuls of things like this from arms and moulds to other artifacts and have gotten rid of them over the years, but would have much rather donated them to a collection like this and I'm certain there's probably a good many folks out there that has items they'd be willing to add to a collection of this caliber.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

It's a stunning collection, Hercules! Glad you found us, too. More episodes of this thing to come . . .

[@bolinfan1519]

In my view, one of the most important things to look for in this collection are items which can be identified by soldier and/or regiment. Since the vast majority of items were dug, such identifications are no doubt few in number. You said the man who found or acquired these items kept meticulous records. If you can dedicate a video to presenting the records which point to identifications by soldier or regiment, I'd be very much obliged. And if you find anything from the 169th N.Y., which fought in Virginia and South Carolina, among other States, and tell us about it, I'd be supremely grateful!

[@susanpera2131]

Hopefully he documented where each was found so they can be linked with certain battles, etc.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Agree 100% I've seen nothing so far that could be linked to one soldier. Somebody said the canvas canteen cover's "39" was the individual soldier's number. I don't know. No ID tags, or initials so far. But I've had little chance to closely examine. Hoping some of the plates have a name scratched in. If I find out ANYTHING, it will be in a future vid. Promise.

[@bolinfan1519]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 Thanks chief.

[@texasford]

No one particular item caught my attention, yet every piece did. I had many ancestors fight in “The War of Northern Aggression “ and it is like looking back through a window in time. If we don’t learn from history, we’re destined to repeat it. I look forward to more videos from y’all !

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Cool first sentence Texas. You're the only one who's said that. Agree with everything you said! #2 landing on Friday, stay tuned. Is your picture Army Air Corps? Or Air force?

[@Juan_Doooh]

Great video, to have been the curator of such an amazing, historic collection is unthinkable. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thank you so much Juan!

[@shakascloset1700]

Absolutely amazing, thanks for taking us on an awesome tour. Subbed I don't want to miss a thing. 👍

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Wow, thanks Shaka. You won't be disappointed!

[@craigdutton6072]

Speechless at that man’s efforts ❤

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

No lie, Craig. Staggering!

[@craigdutton6072]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 I fully get the attraction to collecting 😎I’m no detector guru lol 😂 fancy myself a bit of a bottle fella 😎but that’s amazing thanks 🙏

[@marcboulanger4300]

As a Civil War buff, this was awesome!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Marc. I was about to soil myself!

[@DBCOOPER982]

I love learning about history and its even more special when you can see items from the past,thank you for doing this video I so much enjoyed it 👍

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Appreciate that Steven!

[@Budgie-d6k]

How lucky are you? I'm a couple of weeks shy of my 70th birthday, live in the UK and have held a deep fascination for ACW since I was a kid. This must have been like walking into Alladins cave! What I wouldn't have given to have been in your shoes for a while. Many thanks for sharing.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Budgie - I was thinking the same thing as I gazed! Kind of cool that quite a few Confederate items were made in the UK and got here on blockade runners! Cheers, and thank you!

[@80stoynostalgia]

I believe all Hotchkiss shells are US. There might be a rare copy or something not sure but the flame groove is fire timed fuses. So the flame from the cannon would ignite it. The ones without were used with percussion fuzes and didn’t need a flame.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Appreciate that Jason! Makes sense . . .

[@cavfan2337new]

The large fragments are from the Dictator 13 inch mortar. Those are nice finds. 1 at conn. Heavy artillery. It only fired at total of 218 rounds.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

You have educated me! Going to include this info in next vid!

[@franklintompkins1619]

As close to heaven as a collector can get!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I feel you Franklin!

[@philipstephan5451]

Thank you so much for showing this rare collection of civil war pieces. It was an honor to just peer through the screen and witness the many years of serching it took to aquire this many priceless artifacts. Once again thank you, take care.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Much more than welcome Philip. It was truly a pleasure to explore all this.

[@donaldrammer8632]

Outstanding, thanks for sharing this slice of history. Mind blowing.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Our pleasure Donald, for sure!

[@kornkraker]

That is one incredible collection. Is it possible those large frag pieces might actually be from exploded cannon barrel/breech?

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

hey Kraker! Hard to see in the vid, but no. Not tubular but round. Some are suggesting a 13" mortar called "The Dictator" . . .

[@stevenpenczu3541]

Yup, a lot of human carnage carried in that lot☹️ Such an amazing collection of a time gone by 🎉

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Yes Steven, Would be terrifying to know it all . . .

[@Stacks5497]

I am a History nut and i really loved this video . Thank you so much for letting us in to your buddies life collection . Amazing stuff .

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Appreciate that so much stacks! I'm just glad I got to be in on it!

[@bradtipton986]

Imagine what might be found if people were allowed to use metal detectors on Civil War and other battlefields. Those who do use them must be trained in how to restore the dig upon recovery of the artifact.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Brad, I'm on your team!

[@AndyUK-Corrival]

Astonishing collection. I’m glad it is being secured for the future. Could take a lifetime to just catalogue this collection. Andy UK

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

No lie, Andy! greetings from across the pond . . .

[@Zappy1210]

When I was 18 I took a summer job for an HVAC company. We were installing HVAC in a plantation home in Maryland complete with slave quarters. The old wooden bunkbeds were still there from the 1800's. The plantation was purchased by a John Walsh, Jacklyn Kennedy's gynecologist. He was only there twice that I remember, otherwise the home had no occupants. We worked for about 3 weeks installing units and ductwork when we reached the 3rd floor. We set our units in the attic and began running duct work to the 3rd floor. We also had line sets to run to the ground for outdoor units. We had opened a section of wall from the 2nd floor to the basement. I had the job of crawling into a kneewall on the 3rd floor to get the lines to the 2nd floor. I crawled in the kneewall with a flashlight and drilled holes down to the 2nd floor. As I finished up I shined my light farther back in the kneewall and saw... something. I crawled back to find several muskets with bayonets a box full of balls and gunpower plus a larger box which was locked. I told the guy I was working with and began to bring it all out. The last thing I drug out was the locked box which was pretty heavy. As I lifted it to get it out of the hole we made to get in the kneewall and just as I started it through I heard a voice. It was Mr. Walsh asking how thing were going and noticed all the guns and me getting the locked box out. He had us take it all downstairs for him and put it all in his car. We were kinda bummed because it was just all so cool and Mr. Walsh had no clue that stuff was there. 3 days later Mr. Walsh came back to the house and gave us each $20.00. The proceeds to tell us the locked box was full of gold coins and hand made silverware pre Civil war... as were all the guns and ammo. Then tells us he sold just the contents of the box for over 100k. He gave us $20.00 each...

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Man, that's a little on the chincy side, I'd say. I mean it was HIS, but he never would have known about it with out you. Wow. Having said that, you got to EXPERIENCE this!! I've heard of some wonderful, weird discoveries, but this one is SUPER! My guess would be that the homeowners hid this stuff when the enemy (US? CS? Never know in Maryland) was closing in. For whatever reason, the person or persons who hid it, never made it back alive. 160 years later YOU stumble upon one of the great lost treasures of our time. Just WOW man. I SO appreciate you telling this story!

[@Zappy1210]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 That is about what we figured too, whoever hid the items didn't make it back alive. That portion of MD fought for the south mostly, but MD was all over the place in the civil war, so who knows for sure. Yeah, it was a pretty awesome experience finding the items. Like finding treasure on a sunken ship lol. We weren't happy about the $20, but it was technically his even though he had no idea any of it was there.

[@Zappy1210]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 I haven't really given a ton of thought to my experience in many years. The find was in the summer of 1988, before I started college. But now you got my mind wondering just what was in that locked box again lol. The guy I was working with at the time of the find and I assumed there was perhaps jewelry in the box along with the silver and gold to get 100k back in 1988. I mean the box weighed approx. 80-ish lbs. It was pretty ornate looking too. I remember thin steel or iron hinges that just looked so old and hand made, the lock was one of those skeleton key locks and was fairly hefty. Approx. size of the box was about 18X18X30. The man's name I remember clear as day, John Walsh, he was pretty proud of the fact he was Jakie O's gynecologist. The plantation estate was in Tunis Mills MD. and I can't for the life of me remember the name of it... Just wondering, in your experience, any way to find out what he did sell in that find?

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Man, you need to let this one go, brother. I think that ship has sailed! But I share your curiosity! I guess the only way would be to contact a surviving spouse or child, and hope they (A) know something and (B) are willing to reveal it. Both of which I sadly doubt. But if you ever find out, my mind is spinng to. Please reveal! Cheers to you my friend. @@Zappy1210

[@JohnSmithyy365]

Incredible collection. Thank you for preserving this 👏

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

I'll pass that along to the guy preserving it John, and thank YOU for watching. I just documented it . . .

[@truenaturestormers2525]

Wow, Amazing stuff there.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Can't disagree, True!

[@breeyoung8777]

WOW Just stumbled on this channel . All i can say is that it blows my mind that one guy, within my own lifetime, could go walking and find so many artefacts in and on the ground. It feels like a fantasy. No doubt never to be repeated.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

No argument from me Bree!

[@patrickbarrett5650]

From the UK. Well done buddy, genuine articles and genuine enthusiasm. This will be a treat to follow.👏🏻

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thank you for the kind words, Patrick! Cheers from across the pond . . .

[@kenmilne2379]

What an amazing collection ! Lucky boys ! Love to see an Indian Elder go over their relics and tell his story ! Awesme!! Thnk u ! ❤❤❤❤

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

YES Ken!

[@PhD777]

Thank you for sharing this incredible collection of historical artifacts with us! God bless and keep ya'll!👍🏻🎅👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Trust me, this was our pleasure to be a part of this story, 777!

[@neilhart9924]

Hey guy! Thanks for sharing this awesome collection. Being from central VA and working in Petersburg for 10yrs makes this video extra special. That big fragment that you compared your hand to thats labeled Petersburg Va looks big enough to be part of the dictator! Good stuff my friend!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Neil, I agree about the possible dictator frag. Much of this man's hunting was done around Petersburg in the 1960s.

[@patricktheplumber5482]

I have very little knowledge of civil war artifacts I’m a military buff and love history this is by far the most civil war items I’ve ever seen at one time and by far in the best condition amazing honestly !

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Patrick! It is rare, for sure. Hey, if you're really a plumber, keep your eyes peeled in those attics, closets, basements and crawl spaces . . . I'm sure you already do!

[@patricktheplumber5482]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 I’m a real plumber and I do come across old finds on occasion but nothing from the civil war and nothing as nice as those leather pouches etc amazing what good condition they are in !

[@jasonduggan2903]

Amazing! And that was just a quick glance! I can not wait for ya’ll to start rootin around there and seeing what’s up Yo! You know me and I loved all the points but I want to see the coins! Seeing you and Mud Duck’s faces getting lost in the room was classic, specially Mud Duck’s face when he first entered! Giddy for the next videos to come. Keep walking and digging Yo!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

You've been there from the START Beachwalker! Love ya, bro.

[@scottnyc6572]

First time viewer and now subscriber. I’m speechless watching this!! The spots where all this was found must’ve been prime spots where battles took place.Where is the family of the deceased?Just incredible!!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Scott, no argument from me, and honored to have you as a subscriber! As for family, I'm trying to learn a little backstory, but I know very little. SO much easier to get permission to hunt and lots of prime battleground still in private hands in the 60s and 70s. Welcome aboard!

[@eugenebrooks4035]

Wow this is truely a treasure . What an amazing collection . Thank you for sharing this beautiful collection .

[@hoganshero19]

Watching this today takes me back to when I was a kid, a friend of the family had his own little museum built off the side of his house. All four walls were covered from top to bottom and all the way across each one with swords and sabres, show cases of anything and everything from just the civil war period. Rifles and pistols gallore. I miss being able to go see what new pieces he might have found, with out a doubt he has probably passed away by now. I miss the fun days like that.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

You are one of a disappearing breed Hero. Back then, those magnificent collectors like your friend, loved sharing their collections. More and more, they hide them. For fear of theft, and even seizure. Thank you for your comment!

[@susanpera2131]

This is absolutely amazing! I’m not sure where this collection is going but I hope it goes to a museum so it can be seen. I think this history is so important! This is the first time I’ve seen your channel and I hope to see more.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thank you so much Susan. Vid #2 coming Friday. I anticipate three or four at least.

[@stevestrohacker8436]

WOW, What more can or even needs to be said. To be able to find all these pieces, display them for 50+ years, and then for you to be able to touch and inventory these just blows my mind. Will they be put on public display or going into a private museum? I'd be honored just to see them in person.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Steve, that's the question of the hour isn't it? New owner is still reeling from the responsibility (and windfall!) If something public happens, you'll hear about it here first!

[@danacarter4793]

I love History ,but didn't imagine id run onto this channel,so glad i did because i love civil war history, thanks 💯

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Well Dana, that means you and I are cut from the same cloth! I have enough videos of relic hunting civil war battlefields and campsites to keep you busy for a while. And I appreciate your kind words!

[@danacarter4793]

Tysm ,can't wait to watch more on your channel

[@MidwesternFC]

A true caretaker of history. I love seeing the meticulous care taken in collecting and documenting these historical relics. Thanks for sharing this.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

You're so right, Midwestern!

[@lizmbrad]

Just stumbled across your channel and I'm loving it! Totally binge watching all your videos. That room with all of that history.... Just WOW!!! I bet you had cold chills looking at and holding some of those items. I know I did.... The Native American artifacts were stunning. All of those spurs and bits, bullets, muskets and that sword!!! Geez it was incredible. I love the set up of your videos, the way you sit in an old looking room with relics for your conclusions. You have it nailed all the way around. Keep em coming 💪 Best regards from GA.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Wow, thank you so much for the kind words! Honored to have you aboard . . .

[@lizmbrad]

GA has a lot of Civil War history as well. Do you travel outside of VA to hunt?

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

@@lizmbrad I would in a heartbeat if I knew somebody with land that had Civil War potential! I knew a girl in Rome Georgia one time, but thats it!

[@jaytiarks2592]

He found all this stuff, so amazing that the leather is still in shape let alone the cloth items wow! I am always interested in "barn finds" but this is on another level. Your responsibility in conserving and somehow assisting in interpretation and eventual display of collection is mind boggling. 😮

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Jay. No pressure just being a consultant!

[@kathleenwyatt3818]

Absolutely stunning - I was just mesmerized. Thank you

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

That makes us happy Kathleen!

[@s.l.brewer2025]

I’m 8 months late finding these videos but I really do love and appreciate our American history, love these kind of videos.

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Appreciate your kind words, Brewer! Took him 150 years to find the relics. Your 8 months seems quite reasonable!

[@johnwalsh5762]

Speechless,,, hopefully the public will be able to enjoy this in the future,,,ty for sharing!!!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

You're welcome John. Our pleasure.

[@novelynflippo5890]

I was never interested in this kind of thing, but seeing what was collected and preserved made me excited. I dont think I have seen a better collection in a museum! I did notice some plates and pots and other dishes. Please be sure to showcase these as well as I am sure they have a story to tell as well. For some reason this video popped up and I just thought might as well watch it. Glad I did! What a fantastic collection!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thank you for the kind words, Novel!

[@Canuck13]

Hello from Canada. I’ve always been fascinated with the American Civil War. This is a museum. Fantastic. Would have loved some uniforms in this collection

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Agreed Canuck. Uniforms would have been cool. I think this collector was more of an opportunist, than someone trying to assemble a collection. Whatever he could dig up, and whatever crossed his path otherwise, he tried to secure it. Thank you for your kind words, Northern Neighbor! I only recently learned that a few Confederate officers and politicians fled to your country at the close of the war.

[@weedfreer]

Wow, what a collection. Sitting here watching this across the pond just as impressed as you are. Subscribed to see the rest of it...looks like you have at least 6-8 months worth of footage in that lot!

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

So cool to know that Weed! I love the collection has reached so far from home. Many of those buttons, Enfield bullets, etc were made in London and brought to the south by blockade runners . . .

[@weedfreer]

@@thebattlefieldwalker2841 wow! Never knew that. I see a few come out the ground while watching UK based metal Detectorist on KZbin. Thing is, it's appears more seem to come out the ground on the US Detectorist channels though. Really strange. That said, I think the UK Detectorists do have their fair share of Roman, Gallic middle age and iron age finds to make up for it though ☺️

[@joshcleaver2894]

This is so amazing this is one of the best lifetime collections ive ever seen thankyou so much for sharing

[@thebattlefieldwalker2841]

Thanks Josh I was amazed, too!