Jeffrey Miller works on a wheellock musket at Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site.
On Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m., the Newcastle Historical Society will host a talk by Jeffrey Miller called “Firearms of Colonial America,” an overview of the various types of firearms used commonly in New England during the Colonial era. The talk will be held in the community room at the Newcastle fire station on River Road. A short business meeting will be held after the presentation.
Miller will bring examples to illustrate some of the styles to be discussed. A blacksmith, gunsmith, and historian, he specializes in 17th, 18th, and early 19th century ironware. Miller has repaired numerous original and Colonial-style muskets and pistols and has also made more than 50 firearms based on original pieces from the late 16th century through the 18th century.
A consultant for museums, historic sites, and archaeology projects, Miller counts among his clients Old Fort Western, Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site, Pownalborough Restoration, Old Berwick Historical Society, Washington’s Crossing Historic Site, Fort at No. 4 Living History Museum, Ganondagan State Historic Site, and Old Sturbridge Village. He has been commissioned by individuals in the U.S. and abroad for his work, both as a blacksmith and a gunsmith.
