Resting on the square in Russellville for years, the cannon once used in the War with Mexico in 1846, will be given a more sturdy resting place soon as a new carriage is being built to hold the 700-pound relic.

As long as most around here can remember, the cannon has been a part of the Carrico Square for decades.

The 6 PDR field cannon model 1842 used to lay on a cradle of concrete before local jeweler and businessman, Marion Humphries built a carriage to hold it. The project was completed on Sept. 3, 1994. All labor, material, and money were donated by many area citizens.

If you haven't noticed the cannon is usually pointed down which signifies peacetime.

"The current carriage built almost 25 years ago has been infested by carpenter ants," said Russellville Mayor Mark Stratton. "The tongue broke off recently and the carriage is really a safety concern now."

A Russellville employee who is skilled in carpentry will be making the actual carriage, while the city will be contracting the making of the wheels.

"We removed the cannon temporarily to protect anyone who is visiting the square. We don't want the cannon to fall on anyone. It should be back in its place by the Tobacco Festival," said the mayor.