NAM.1974-10-141-45

‘Poplar & Blackwall Volunteer’, ‘Prime & Load (last motion)’, 1798. Aquatint by and after Thomas Rowlandson, 21 September 1798. From a volume of 86 aquatints entitled, ‘Loyal Volunteers of London & Environs’, published by R Ackermann, 101 Strand, London, 1798-1799. Plate ‘No. 45’ of the Infantry section. A member of the Poplar and Blackwall Volunteer demonstrates the prime and load, last motion. Inscribed drill instruction, ‘When the Cartridge is rammed down the ramrod is quickly return'd, the left hand raises the firelock 2 Inches from the ground, & the muzzle is brought close to the shoulder by the right hand, holding the ramrod between the forefinger/ & thumb. At the motion the right hand quits after slightly striking the top of the muzzle, the left flings the piece/ upwards & catches it firmly by the heel.’ Associated with Wars of the French Revolution, Home Defence (1793-1802).

Wars of the French Revolution, Home Defence (1793-1802)