Marine Department
A ship of the Somerset's size would have had a detachment of 77 Marines. One Captain, 1 2nd Lieutentent, 2 Serjeants, 2 Corporals, 1 Drummer, and 70 Private Men.
On 4 December 1774, the HMS Asia, Somerset, and Boynes, carrying 460 British Marines under the command of the gallant Major John Pitcairn, arrived upon the shores of the tumultuous city of Boston. A month later, sensing New England's bellicosity, the Admiralty readied additional forces for service in the colonies. In May of 1775, this augmentation, consisting of 2 majors, 10 captains, 27 subalterns, 28 sergeants, 25 corporals, 29 drummers, and 600 privates, joined with the 460 marines already in Boston to form the 1st and 2nd Battalion of Marines.
If you are interested in portraying a Marine, please feel free to contact us with any questions about the uniform and equipment needed for this very important impression.
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