Scrimshaw powderhorn

In the early 1800s, horn, bone, and antler were commonly used to make a variety of containers, tools, utensils, and weapon handles. This horn was used to carry black gunpowder. The writing on the horn is scrimshaw, the name given to scrollwork, engravings, and carvings done in bone or ivory. This powderhorn carries the name "Maximiano Enebral", its presumed owner. 

It is also marked "San Jacinto 21 April 1836," a reference to the decisive battle that ended the Texas Revolution. On April 21, 1836, from their position on the San Jacinto River, the Texas Army caught the Mexican Army in a surprise attack. The battle lasted only 18 minutes, ending in a resounding victory for the Texans. While the inscription was added to the horn at a later date, it is likely that the powderhorn was either carried by the owner at San Jacinto or found after the battle.