Massachusetts Militia Flintlock Musket SOLD

Description

The period of this musket is circa 1820, and so typical of Massachusetts Militia muskets made by various contractors throughout the Commonwealth. These are usually referred to as New England militia muskets, but we can most likely narrow this one down to being made in Worcester County, Mass. The common thread in most Worcester Co. guns of this period are the use of the two piece side plates; and oval rear plate and a tear drop for the front.

This musket is cherry stocked, sporting brass furniture and embellished with coin silver escutcheon plate and barrel wedge plates. There was some thin silver wire around the barrel tang, but that is now missing (this can be restored). The lockplate is original flint, and imported to this county from Great Britain and made by “ADAMS.”  The barrel is 42″ long, .69 caliber and was probably made at Springfield Armory.  This may be a “second,” and sold by the armory to area gunsmiths.  Using this barrel with the proof marks, would allow this gunsmith to skip a step, and not have to get it inspected as per the law of 1805 requiring all militia muskets be inspected prior to use by the militia. This is not a replaced barrel, but original to the day it was made.  The bayonet is an 1816 pattern as well.

Condition is fine with an even age patina overall, no significant pitting to speak of; the lock functions well, even the ramrod is original to this musket. The wood on the stock retains nice lines around the lock, free of any cracks or damage other than typical scratches and small dings.

The bayonet has a 16″ blade, and patina and condition match the musket, with some minor rust formations overall that have have been from moisture from being in a leather scabbard at one time.

A collection number has been painted on the trigger guard, and bayonet and are a match.

A excellent example.

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