1832 Dated New England Militia Musket

1832 Dated New England Militia Musket, is typical to many of arms purchased privately by independent militia companies. Although many muskets were made in America, or assembled here using imported British parts, this musket appears to have been purchased directly from England and then inspected here according to Massachusetts proof law of 1808. On the left side of the barrel breech are the stamps, “P” (in round sunken cartouche), over “L.M.” (Luke Harrington, Inspector), & “M”(for Massachusetts), over date “1832.”

The 5 3/16 inches lock is marked “LONDON / WARRENTED,” and made by a number of arms makers surrounding the Birmingham, England area. Common style engraving is found on the lock, and on the prominent brass furniture. A small oval silver escutcheon is mounted on the wrist. The trigger is made in brass, and not commonly seen in this metal.

Overall the .69 caliber musket is 57.5 inches long, with a smooth bore barrel of 42 inches.  The bayonet stud is mounted on the top of the barrel, and likely was purchased with a fusil style bayonet with a socket of 3 1/4 inches (muzzle to brass nose cap). Stock in walnut, and barrel held in place by the use of 3 wedge pins, with decorative brass oval plates. The ramrod is original to the musket, and is threaded for cleaning jag, or worm. The trumped shaped end is incised with spiral lines mimicking the shape of a twisted wire brush. Mechanics are fine, and general condition overall is very good- fine, with original untouched patina.

Although the State of Massachusetts began purchasing 1808 contract muskets from various makers, so did independent companies with the funds enough to purchase these arms from the same makers. The state also purchased other foreign arms, to fill their armories. The New England Militia Musket remained a popular arm, due to cost, and it’s use as an occasional sporting arm, with usage that went into the 1840s.

A great example.