Anvil firing

A torus or washer, often made from a playing card, is placed over the hole, with a space for a fuse or powder trail.

A fuse is made to project out, then lit, and the resulting deflagration sends the projectile anvil several feet into the air.

[5] Although its practice has lessened in recent years[citation needed], enthusiasts still participate in anvil launching events and competitions.

This was in response to a report of two suspected Confederate guerrillas at a residence in the neighborhood where they had demanded money and food and had terrorized the occupants, a Mr. and Mrs. Gore.

On February 23, 1861, Texas Ranger and prominent Union supporter Thomas Lopton Campbell Jr. was held captive and forced to "fire the anvils" in the streets of Austin.