Ep 1. Civil War Sabotage?

History Detectives season 12 episode 1 is titled "Civil War Sabotage?" and delves into the possibility of sabotage during the American Civil War. This episode examines the story of one of the Civil War's most recognizable symbols: the cannon. In particular, Civil War Sabotage? follows the story of a damaged Confederate cannon that was repaired and put back on the battlefield by Union soldiers.

The episode begins with the introduction of Wes Cowan, the lead detective for this episode, and his team of experts. Cowan sets the stage for the mystery at hand by providing historical context about the importance of cannons during the Civil War. These weapons were used on a massive scale and were critical to victory on the battlefield. They were also difficult to produce and transport, making them valuable assets for both Union and Confederate armies.

The detective team's investigation begins with a visit to the battlefield at Antietam, Maryland. Here, they meet with expert battlefield archaeologist Scott Tucker. Together, they explore the remnants of the battlefield, looking for clues that could answer their questions about the damaged cannon. Tucker explains that soldiers on both sides would often harm cannons to keep them from falling into enemy hands. However, the damage to this particular cannon seemed intentional and targeted.

Next, Cowan and his team head to West Point Military Academy to analyze the physical characteristics of the cannon. Here, they work alongside expert metallurgist Dr. Larry Hanke. They examine the cannon's markings, dents, and the area where the damage occurred. Hanke determines that the damage was likely caused by a small explosive charge designed to render the cannon useless.

The team then travels to a foundry in Pennsylvania to learn more about the process of repairing cannons during the Civil War. They observe a working foundry and speak with expert master gunsmith Earl Robinson to understand more about how cannons were produced and repaired. Robinson explains that repairing a cannon in the field was difficult and relied heavily on the skill of the gunsmith.

Finally, the team examines letters and diaries from soldiers who were present at the scene of the damaged cannon. They read accounts of the incident and learn that the Union soldiers who repaired the cannon were suspicious of the Confederates and believed that they had intentionally sabotaged the weapon. However, the evidence they gathered was not conclusive.

In the end, the detectives conclude that it is possible that the damaged cannon was sabotaged by Confederate soldiers. They suggest that the damage was targeted and deliberate, rather than a result of battlefield damage. However, they acknowledge that they do not have enough conclusive evidence to confirm their theory with certainty.

Civil War Sabotage? is a fascinating look at one of the many mysteries of the American Civil War. Cowan and his team expertly work to piece together clues and examine evidence to try to solve the mystery of the damaged cannon. The episode is engaging and informative, providing a deeper understanding of the role of cannons in the Civil War and the challenges of repairing them in the field.