In 1730, Britain adopted a new pattern musket called the “Long Land” pattern, later known as the “Brown Bess”.  This was a smooth-bore musket with a 46 in. barrel taking a .75 caliber round ball.  In 1740, the “Short Land” pattern was produced, identical to the “Long Land” pattern with the exception of a 42 in. barrel.  The Brown Bess was the standard musket used against American forces during the Revolution. 

     Our specimen is a “Short Land” Brown Bess.  The lock plate in front of the lock is marked “GR” with a crown.  The rear of the lock plate is marked “WATKIN” “1746” “)(“ in three lines.  The top of the barrel near the tang is marked “T-Y 11676” and “GR” with a crown.  The butt plate is marked “T-Y 11676”.  The bayonet is stamped “JOHN ROCK”.