Militaria

Colonial Williamsburg's collection of militaria was built to compliment the Foundation’s comprehensive holdings of martial firearms and edged weapons. Since complete uniforms do not survive, items like drums, cartridge boxes, powder horns, regimental buttons and buckles are necessary to tell the stories of the men who fought in America during the 18th century.

Highlights of the militaria collection include two American-made silver belt plates of the Revolutionary War, a Massachusetts Officer’s uniform button worn at the Siege of Yorktown, and a Germanic brass drum purportedly captured from the Hessians at the Battle of Trenton in 1776.

Other items relating to the military history of early America are found in other categories of Colonial Williamsburg’s collection. This diverse array includes portraits, costume items, prints, maps, silver, and a regimental “King’s Colour” flag of the French and Indian War period.