The Fascinating History of Thunder Mugs: How Signal Cannons Shaped Celebrations at Sea

At Thunder Boom, we love connecting our products to the deep history of celebration and communication. Thunder Mugs, also known as signal cannons or salute cannons, have roots going back centuries. Let’s take a closer look at three iconic ships that carried these booming symbols of patriotism and naval tradition.

⚓ USS Constitution – America’s Oldest Commissioned Ship

Launched in 1797, the USS Constitution—affectionately known as “Old Ironsides”—is the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat. She played a vital role in the War of 1812, sailing with power and pride under the American flag.

The USS Constitution was equipped with a range of cannons, including smaller signal cannons (what we now call Thunder Mugs). These cannons served to mark important events, signal nearby vessels, and honor distinguished guests with ceremonial salutes. This rich tradition of booming celebration lives on in the spirit of our Thunder Mugs today!

⚓ HNLMS Buffel – A Dutch Ironclad Ram Ship

Crossing the Atlantic to the Netherlands, we find the HNLMS Buffel, a 19th-century ironclad ram ship of the Royal Netherlands Navy. Commissioned in 1868, she carried a mix of weaponry, including smaller cannons used to signal and communicate during peacetime operations.

Today, the Buffel is preserved as a museum in Hellevoetsluis, Netherlands—a floating testament to naval craftsmanship and the legacy of signal cannons that carried messages of peace and camaraderie across the seas.

⚓ Clipper Ship Hereward – A Bronze Signal Cannon at Sea

The British clipper Hereward, built in Scotland in 1877, sailed the globe as a fast cargo ship. Like other great sailing vessels of her time, the Hereward carried a bronze signal cannon—used to alert nearby vessels and mark festive occasions while in port.

Though she met her fate on the shores of Maroubra Beach, Australia, in 1898, a bronze signal cannon from her wreck remains preserved as a historical artifact. It’s a beautiful reminder that even small cannons like Thunder Mugs have a proud role in maritime heritage.

Honoring the Boom Today

At Thunder Boom, we’re proud to bring that tradition of celebration and maritime history into your hands. Every Thunder Mug is a modern nod to these historic salute cannons—crafted to create the same excitement and thunderous memories that once echoed across the decks of legendary ships.

Ready to join the tradition? Explore our Thunder Mugs and make your next celebration truly memorable!

👉 Shop Thunder Mugs Now