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Virginia Gazette Advertisement: Teaching
Fifers and Drummers
The American colonies did not have an army when the Revolutionary
War began. There were few trained military professionals. Forming an army required
people who knew how to organize an army. America needed people who could supply
the troops with uniforms, equipment, and food. Men who could teach drill and
the manual of arms were scarce. In Virginia, two men—Thomas Sterling and
Thomas Hookins—offered their services teaching fifers and drummers. These
young musicians were essential for every army. They were the military communications
system, regulating the soldiers' day in camp and providing signals to the troops
on the field of battle.
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Alexandria, June 12, 1775.
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| THE Subscribers would willingly learn any Number of Boys the MILITARY MUSICK of the FIFE and DRUM; and also supply any Persons with Musick for said Instruments. Gentlemen desirous of having Pupils instructed may depend on the greatest Attention being paid to them Our Terms are half a Guinea Entrance, and a Guinea per Month for each Instrument. | |
| THOMAS STERLING. THOMAS HOOKINS. |
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Source: Virginia Gazette (Dixon), June 17, 1775, Supplement.
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