The Society of Descendants of Militia Officers

The Militia Researcher is the Society's training program for members and others interested in developing the knowledge and skills to study the organization, units, personnel, and role of the Militia from 1607 to 1861.  It combines appropriate articles on sources from The Assembly, the Society's newsletter, with longer pieces covering core knowledge of the Militia and of research techniques.  This is a growing knowledge hub, updated regularly with new material, and a key component of our educational mission.

RESEARCH PAPERS.  These are academic research papers prepared by members of the Society to contribute to a better understanding of the Militia and its service.

• Paper No. 1.  Manning of Militia Companies of Foot in the War of the Regulation 1771

CORE KNOWLEDGE.  The following articles provide an overview of common elements of the organization, training, personnel practices, and employment of the Militia.

• What Is and What Is Not a Militia Unit
• The Organizational Table
• Ranks of Militia Officers

SOURCES.  The following surveys of sources highlight important online and print references to the history and composition of the militia:

• The Florida Militia and the Seminole Wars
• Massachusetts in King Phillip's War
• New Jersey in the Revolutionary War
• Colonial North Carolina
• North Carolina Militia and the War of 1812

QUICK REFERENCE.  Originally appearing in The Assembly, these articles provide a range of introductory information for terms that may be encountered in Militia research:

• Classes
• Garrisons
• Stations
• Swivel Gun