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Wilton Militia Description

Background

Local militias were the first, and often the only, line of defense in Colonial America. Our community, Wilton, CT, established a local militia in 1727 and men from the Wilton Militia served in several wars: King George’s War (1744-48), French & Indian War (1756-63), the American Revolution and the War of 1812. A number of these militia men gave their lives in this service. It is important for the Town of Wilton to know and appreciate the significance of the Wilton Militia in our local history.

Organization

In 2003 the Wilton Historical Society decided to raise the awareness of the early militia’s role. A contemporary Wilton Militia was formed, as part of the Historical Society, to bring this segment of Wilton’s history to life and to provide an opportunity for individuals to experience first hand a number of the responsibilities and functions of the early Wilton Militia. Wilton Militia members have a keen interest in safeguarding the rich heritage handed down from the early Wilton Militia, and others like it.

Goals

Extend local knowledge of the early Wilton Militia, including its organization, functions, and the important role it played in the history of Wilton and the lives of the Wilton citizens.
Provide an opportunity for interested persons to learn more about a community militia in colonial and early American times by participating in drills, battle reenactments, and firing exercises.
Raise the public’s awareness and appreciation for the early Militia’s historical significance through public events, including musket and cannon firings.
Increase the community’s knowledge and interest in the resources and contributions of The Wilton Historical Society.

Activities

To achieve these goals, the Wilton Militia participates in many different public events. The members wear authentic 18th century uniforms and carry firearms similar to the early militiamen.

Perhaps the highlight of the Militia's activities is the Annual Wilton Historical Society Family Day . There are many hand-on activities for people of all ages, but especially children. These include rope making, butter churning and flax spinning. The Militia demonstrates drilling and entertains the visitors with musket firing. Children are given the opportunity to drill as well, carrying non-firing muskets. Throughout the day Militia members talk with the visitors about the significance of the early militias in American History.

The Militia participates in early American battle reenactments around the area. These are always exciting and dramatize the fact that the struggle for independence was fought here, in the same towns where we now live. The Wilton Militia is also part of a larger organization, the 5th Connecticut Regiment. Members of both organizations are often together at various events.

Other Militia activities include participation in the Wilton Historical Society events such as the Antique and Craft shows, marching in the Memorial Day parade, and various children’s programs put on by the Wilton Historical Society.

Click here to view our current event calendar.

Membership

Being a member of the Wilton Militia is fun! Membership is open to anyone with a interest in preserving the heritage of the prior Wilton militia and learning about early America. We request that all Militiamen become members of the Wilton Historical Society.

Click here for contact information.