This 19th century gun was used to frighten, maim or kill poachers. The point was forced into a tree and a trip wire set up for the poacher to trip on and set off the gun.
It was found in 1998, buried under the floor of the Blacksmith's shop, which is now the Old Smithy in my village.
Living in a rural community this object shows how methods used to deter poachers have changed even though poaching probably still does go on!
Charlotte
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