Training in the use of 18th century flintlock muskets

Twenty-five lucky Historic City News readers could be selected to participate in a Spring Musket School being presented by the National Park Service on Saturday May 19, 2012.

The focus of the 8-hour course is to improve the participant’s understanding of the safe handling of 18th Century flintlock muskets during interpretive demonstrations performed at the Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas National Monument.

The National Park Service has informed local reporters that those who wish to attend must contact Chris Leverett by calling (904) 471-0116 before the close of business on Friday May 18th.

Weapon safety is of paramount concern for the students, instructor and National Park Service employees; therefore, all participants have to be at least 16 years of age and must pre-register for the class.

Although a small collection of flintlock muskets is available at the park headquarters, participants are welcome to provide their own. If you want to use your own musket, it must be inspected by park personnel.

The training class begins at 8:30 a.m. in the National Park Service headquarters building on the north grounds of the Castillo de San Marcos, across the street from the Visitor Information Center.

A $20 tuition fee is required at the door. Space is limited. More information will follow for those who register.