1768 Charleville

[Bob Womack]

Two notes:

1. A formation of soldiers of the period was arrayed as to be an overwhelming psychological presence. They would advance with drums thundering, steps thundering, holding their muskets upright at shoulder arms ("Shoulder Firelock") with gleaming bayonets mounted at the top. In that position the soldier and his weapon reached about seven feet in height. Imagine a seven-foot high bristling thicket of gleaming bayonets swaying with every marching step, each one representing at best a quick death from a pierced heart and at worst a slow death from sepsis. No man wanted to die; few wanted to die of musket fire; fewer still wanted to die from the bayonet.

The Charleville was the American Colonies' tool adopted to oppose the British Brown Bess musket, a volley-fire weapon.

Good score!

2. For those of you unable to afford a musket and who either live in the area or considering a visit Colonial Williamsburg, VA, the historical Colonial Capital of the Colonies, has just opened a new attraction that offers you the ability to fire muskets. The cost is $119 including ammunition, targets, safety equipment, etc.

More HERE.




Bob