From time to time an artifact is discovered at Johnson's Island that I can't identify. Most times I can figure it out without too much difficulty, but once in a while the identity alludes me. I decided to share some of those finds with you, hoping that someone would know what these objects belonged to or how they were used.

The ideas posted to the bulletin board have now been listed here, thanks to all who participated!

The first artifact (FS 4097) is something that has been discovered several times at Johnson's Island. It is made of copper, quite thin, and has been discovered in a couple of different sizes. It has a bit of a spring to it as well.

• a spring from a rifle's fire-control mechanism?
• a jews harp?
• a spring for a drawer slide?
• arch support for a boot?
• a leather working tool?
• a trigger guard?
• a pen clip?

The second piece is hollow and made of bone (FS 3902). It appears to have been a small cap over something. Of course, I am not sure what it may have covered. We have found three or four of these at the site.

• the cap to a gun powder flask, can, or horn?
• a piece for a chess set?
• a needlecase top?

The third object appears to be porcelain. All but the bottom is covered with a clear glaze. This is the only one of these that we have recovered from the site.

• water or feed dish for a bird cage?
• medical or sanitation item?
• detachable pot handle?