Cast-iron anchor used to tether a hot air balloon to the ground.  The anchor has a cylindrical shank, a curved arm at its base, and a movable balance rod inserted at the upper end of the shank. The curved arm originally had a pointed fluke at each end; one is now broken off.  A movable iron ring is attached to the top of the shank.  An oval-shaped hole and lip are centered on the balance rod.   Made in the 1850s and used in St. Paul,  Minnesota.

For details, view the anchor in our online collections database.