Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

There are no restrictions.

Use Restrictions

Use microfilm (West Reading Room)

Preferred Citation

Virginia. Militia. Muster and payrolls, 1812-1815. Accession 36881. State government records collection, The Library of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia.

Acquisition Information

Acquired prior to 1905.

Historical Information

During the War of 1812, the Virginia Militia was organized by county with each county producing one or more regiments. These regiments were in turn organized into 21 brigades and the brigades into 4 divisions. In addition to other duties, the Adjutant General was responsible for organizing the militia in the event it was called out by the Governor. At the outbreak of the War of 1812, President Madison used his authority to call up the state militia with each state satisfying a particular quota.

Scope and Content Information

Consists of muster rolls and payrolls of Virginia Militia during the War of 1812. The muster rolls and payrolls are divided into three groups: General, Independent Companies, and Field & Staff Officers. Both the General and Field & Staff Officer records are organized numerically by regiment. The Independent Company records are arranged alphabetically by the captain of the regiment. Payrolls contain the name and rank of the soldier or officer, time of service in months and days, and remarks such as "discharged," "sub for," "transferred," "furloughed," etc. Muster rolls include similar information as the payrolls including name, rank, commencement of service, expiration of service, and remarks.

Arrangement

Muster and payrolls are arranged separately and are organized by General companies, Independent Companies, and Field & Staff Officers (See Scope & Content Note).