So what is it? Aprox. 2.5 - 3 inches long. Copper with a square stick in it. The stick has maybe a canvas material wrapped around it. Found at a Union Artillery site. I personally don't think the wood in it is that(CW) old. Any Ideas are welcome.
Maybe the end of a tent pole?
Possibly a wick holder for a lamp pot. Look that up. Like the round ones the RR used to use.
Ed/ODF
Good detective work Medic. I think you got it right. Scratched my head for a long time before I gave up.
Just glad I could help you out. It's a long winter, and I enjoy a little detective work.
Thank you all for your Detector Detective work.