Physical Description
Early colonial matchlock musket, .75 caliber. This musket was made in Massachusetts during the first half of the 17th century. The stock has "Newtowne" burned into both sides.
Specific History
This musket was most likely one of the muskets used to arm the militia. The stock is branded "Newtowne" for its place of origin, Newtowne, Massachusetts, which was established as an outpost of Boston in 1631.
General History
In September 1634, the court ordered that "all muskets, bandoleros, and rests shall be equally divided between the plantations and towns to have arms in readiness for an attack at all times."