THE DONEGAL TOWNSHIP RIFLEMEN

Riflemen were among the Lancaster Militia. They are separate from the regular Militias as they fought in an entirely different manner than the traditional combat. Traditional combat of the time were linear formations and volleys of musket fire. Riflemen were hidden and shot with precision with smaller caliber and long barrel rifles. These hardy men from the frontier used their rifles to bring in food and provide defense against Indians. In 1775, Dr. James Thacher described the riflemen as "remarkably stout and hardy men, many of them exceeding six feet in height. They are dressed in white frocks, or rifle-shirts, and round hats. These men are remarkable for the accuracy of their aim, striking a mark with great certainty at two hundred yards distance." As they were organized, they became an indispensable part of the militia.