West Point Cadet’s – Supplement To The Manual Of Arms 1844

Description

“Head Quarters Of The  Army, Adjutant General’s Office, Washington, Oct. 30, 1844.  General Orders No. 44.” The first pages acts as an introduction by the Assistant Adjutant General and signed by then Brevet Major Lorenzo Thomas. The purpose of this manual, which was a supplement to the Manual Arms then used in the army, was to introduce the changes in weaponry, as the army was beginning to issue percussion lock muskets, and bayonets with clasps.

It is likely that this manual was signed by Thomas in the 1844 period, obtained and used by Murray as of 1859. Newer manuals would have been issued to the army beginning with the 1842, but apparently not all regular army troops had received new percussion arms, and still using converted flintlock arms to percussion.

This copy was used by West Point “Cadet Corpl Murray, Co. “B,” 1859.”  Albert M. Murray, from New York, Class of 1862, was assigned to the 5th U.S. Artillery, and later to the 2nd U.S. Artillery on Oct. of 1862.  He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in 1864. Breveted captain in 1862  for gallant and meritorious service at the battle of Antietam, Major in 1864 for gallant and meritorious service before Atlanta, Ga.  He died 12 August, 1864 in Confederate Prison.

Without covers (never had any), 10 pages, in pocket sized format.

I would think a scarce manual, in excellent condition with some good historical interest added.