U.S. J. Bishop Model 1812 Flintlock Militia Musket

This musket has a U.S.-surcharged replacement barrel from a later period.

J. Bishop (U.S.) Flint-lock Militia Musket (single-shot/ muzzle-loading/ black powder/ ball ammunition) This gun was made in 1832 by J. Bishop for Philadelphia's militia. The militia consists of all individuals who are not members of regular armed forces, but who can be called to military service in an emergency. This constitutional idea has been the basis of military drafts since the Revolution. Although the concept of militia has remained constant in the United States since its founding, militia arms do vary. Essentially, the musket displayed here resembles a British Brown Bess," not a U.S. Musket as prescribed by contemporary Federal law. Theis dissemblance was a reflection of provincial disdain for the Federal Government and its small standing army." --Dr. William L. Roberts, THE AMERICAN LIBERTY COLLECTION; #40