George, the original Woodruff gun, returns to Fort D Historict Site
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Fort D Historic Site hosted a reception celebrating the return of George, the original Woodruff gun.
It was held Monday afternoon at Fort D Historic Site is located at 920 Fort Street in Cape Girardeau.
“George” was in Cape Girardeau for more than 80 years and was exhibited at Fort D for several years. He is a survivor of the Civil War, including the Battle of Pilot Knob, and was brought back to The Cape by the local 56th Enrolled Missouri Militia under the command of Colonel George C. Thilenius.
Years ago, the cannon tube disappeared but was relocated in Indiana in 2023. The original wooden carriage also disappeared many years ago, but a new authentic replica carriage has been funded by local supporters and is being constructed in the East.
George and his new carriage back will be on exhibit as the pride of Cape Girardeau, in honor of the local men who brought him back from the war.
Fort D Historic Site is located at 920 Fort Street in Cape Girardeau.
