Great Discoveries: Revolutionary War Musket Balls Found in MA – WorthPoint

On April 19, 1775, colonial militia members fired musket balls at British troops at North Bridge in Concord, Massachusetts. Home to the “shot heard round the world,” North Bridge is often considered the starting point of the American Revolutionary War. The fighting at North Bridge lasted only a few seconds. However, the first battle of the Revolutionary War continued across sixteen miles. The battle involved more than 4,000 colonial militia and approximately 1,700 British regulars.

Debates are ongoing about the initial battle at North Bridge and what happened. Recently, artifacts were discovered that could provide additional insights into the battle.

Five musket balls were found near the North Bridge battle site at the Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord, the Associated Press reported. The balls are gray and range in size. Colonial militia members likely fired them at British soldiers during the Revolutionary War’s first battle.

Joel Bohy, an appraiser for Antiques Roadshow, was at the site when the musket balls were discovered. He pointed out that the discovery helps “validate the historical record, as well as the types of arms that the provincial minute and militia companies carried that day.”

Meanwhile, Jarrad Fuoss, a Minute Man park ranger and historic weapons specialist, said the discovery is one that “sends shivers all over your body.” He also noted that it’s “incredible” that the musket balls remained intact nearly 250 years after the North Bridge battle.

Those who want to view musket balls and other Revolutionary War collectibles can see over 9,400 items in the WorthPoint Price Guide.

Dan Kobialka is a self-employed content writer and editor with about a decade of experience. He produces content across a wide range of industries, including antiques, insurance, and real estate. To learn more about Dan, please visit his website. 

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