Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

Collection is open to research.

Use Restrictions

Permission to publish material from the Gloucester Artillery Journal must be obtained from Special Collections, Virginia Tech.

Preferred Citation

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: Gloucester Artillery Journal, Ms2008-076- Special Collections, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.

Acquisition Information

The Gloucester Artillery Journal was purchased by Special Collections.

Processing Information

The processing and description of the Gloucester Artillery Journal occurred in September, 2008.

Historical Information

Following the American Revolution, the newly created Massachusetts Constitution asserted the need for a state militia. The Gloucester Artillery was organized in 1788 and held yearly "general training" sessions. These sessions involved great pomp and circumstance in which militiamen paraded through streets, visited neighboring towns, conducted public arms exercises, and enjoyed food and entertainment. The Gloucester Artillery disbanded in 1849, reformed in 1852, and eventually was renamed the American Guard in 1855.

In the nineteenth century, Lynn, Massachusetts, supported three militia companies: the Lynn Artillery, the Lynn Light Infantry, and the Lynn Mechanic's Rifle Company. As a result of partisan tensions, the local Republican Party formed the Lynn Artillery in 1808.

Scope and Content

The Gloucester Artillery Journal is a handwritten record of a Massachusetts militia's four‐day tour of camp duty in 1845. Activities documented by assistant clerk Charles P. Presson include, but are not limited to: arms exercises, train rides, concerts, dress parades, and military inspections. Other noted Massachusetts militias are the Lynn Artillery, the Lynn Light Infantry, the Lynn Mechanic's Rifle Company, and the Marblehead Light Infantry. Mentioned geographic locations within Massachusetts consist of Gloucester, Lynn, Beverly, and Ipswich. Noted officers include: General Oliver, Brigadier General Sutton, Sergeant Elwell, Colonel Bowler, Captain Gale, Lieutenant Staten, and Lieutenant Center.