Saturday, May 31, 2025
Times: The Village is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
Cost: Included with standard daytime admission or Village membership. Standard daytime admission is $30 for adults, $28 for seniors (55+), $15 for youth (4-17), $15 for college students (with a valid college ID), and free for children 3 and under.
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Due to the forecasted rain, the Spring Muster Day program schedule will be adapted from what was originally posted. Thank you for your understanding!
To supplement the meager armed forces, most early 19th-century farmers and craftsmen were required by law to serve in local militia units – the forerunner of today’s National Guard. Twice a year, these citizen-soldiers were “called to muster” for a day of training in their town. Old Sturbridge Village re-creates a typical Muster Day and celebrates our local military history. Demonstrations will include marching, musket and cannon firing (weather dependent), target practice, sewing a flag, painting militia knapsacks, and more. Fife and drum music performances will also take place throughout the day, including a special performance by the Old Sturbridge Academy Fife and Drum Corps at noon. Be sure to stop by the Miner Grant Store to purchase some soft gingerbread – a traditional Muster Day treat! There will be activities for visitors of all ages!
Please note that the schedule and activites may be adapted due to weather.
PLUS: Shop in-store this weekend, May 31st – June 1st, and receive a FREE reusable OSV tote bag on purchase of $60 or more! Offer valid at the Miner Grant Store or Ox & Yoke Mercantile. Quantities are limited, not applicable on prior purchases.
Did you know?
- The 1792 Militia Act stated required nearly all white men from 18-45 to serve in the militia as part of their civic obligation to their communities. Indigenous Peoples and people of color were explicitly barred from serving in the militia, ensuring the primacy of white manhood as an important element of citizenship.
- All men liable for service in early 19th-century New England had to provide their own equipment: a musket and bayonet, a cartridge box containing 24 rounds of ammunition and two flints, and a knapsack.
- While commonly associated with Christmas today, gingerbread was a favorite treat enjoyed during early 19th century muster days.