Plans for cannons move forward

From the Cannon Beach Gazette
March 6, 2008  page 15

     What the future will hold for two historic cannons, removed from the beaches of Arch Cape Feb. 19, is closer to being determined as a committee of regional and local experts is formed to consider the options.
     The Department of State Lands Agency, who technically own the pair of cannons, and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department have agreed the next step is to form a team with local, state and federal representatives. The team formation is expected to happen very soon.
     "The team will suggest the way forward to conserve and ultimately exhibit the cannons locally," Chris Havel, the Oregon Parks Department, said. "We can't make those decisions about something this important without a broad team".
     The 800-1,000 pound cannons are thought to be from the U.S.S. Shark, a survey ship that wrecked off the Columbia River Bar in 1846. They were discovered partially buried on the beach during Presidents Day weekend.
     For now the cannons are being stored in water tanks at Nehalem Bay State Park. The fresh water baths draw salt from the artifacts while preventing further corrosion. The vats of water are changed out weekly under advice from artifact professionals.