...knowledge and notice. Prior to and during the Civil War many vessels carried an armament, for protection in foreign seas and against Confederate cruisers. One of these was the Swallow, owned by Thatcher Magoun of Medford, which had two brass cannon (six pounders), mounted on low wooden carriages after the usual manner of ships' guns. Mr. Magoun, in a letter to the selectmen, signified his desire to pre...