The majority of the militia are designated as Musketmen
and carry reproductions of either the English 2nd Model Brown Bess or the French
1768 Charleville flintlock muskets. Whether firing on the march during parades
and musters, demonstrating the manual of arms at encampments or
"fighting" in a re-enactment, the Rangers fire black powder blanks.
However, as members of the Rhode Island Militia, each year we participate in
live fire qualification and competition at Camp Fogarty. Despite firing smooth
bore flintlocks which were and still are notoriously inaccurate, the Rangers are
always strong contenders for the Governors Cup. In our scarlet coats we add
color wherever we go, our muskets bang and belch smoke & fire to the delight
of all those watching.
Contact us if you are interested in having the Pawtuxet
Rangers serve as honor guards, fire a ceremonial salute, or demonstrate this
unique piece of American history.