Ballistics of the Past, Science of the Future: Analyzing Camden’s Munitions

Learn about the munitions recently recovered on the Camden battlefield and the forensic techniques that may reveal who fired them.

Ballistics of the Past, Science of the Future: Analyzing Camden’s Munitions

Dr. Stephen Humphreys will provide an overview of the munitions assemblage from the recent 2025 and 2026 field seasons at Historic Camden. Traditionally, 18th century munitions have been evaluated primarily by their caliber to identify the firearm and army of origin. However, the make-up of the lead in the munition can tell a more complete story. Dr. Douglas D. Scott will discuss current practices in munition analysis. Trace element analysis has long been used in the study of archaeological ceramics and other objects. Relatively new nearly non-destructive and non-invasive sampling techniques now allow us to identify bullet lead sources giving archaeologists a better understanding of the lead trade in the latter part of the 18th and early part of the 19th centuries. The value of Portable X-Ray Fluorescence and Lead Isotope studies will be highlighted in this presentation.

Discover how identifying the origin of a munition can challenge traditional narratives of the battlefield and refine our understanding of 18th-century combat dynamics.

The event will be held at Liberty Hall at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center in Camden.

Registration is free, but donations to the program are always greatly appreciated.