Preserving the Sound of Independence

Support the 2026 Deep River Ancient Muster — The National Muster for America’s 250th

Anniversary

In 2026, the United States marks a milestone unlike any other: the 250th Anniversary of the signing of

the Declaration of Independence. This semiquincentennial is a moment to reflect on the ideals that

formed our nation—and on the traditions that carried those ideals across battlefields, town greens, and

generations.

It is with great pride that the Deep River Ancient Muster has been designated the National Muster of The

Company of Fifers & Drummers for this historic year. In collaboration with the Town of Deep River, we

are preparing to host one of the largest and most significant musters in modern history, honoring

America’s founding through the music that helped define it.

The Music of the American Revolution

During the Revolutionary War, fife and drum music was the voice of the army calling soldiers to

assemble, signaling commands, and lifting spirits in moments of uncertainty. Long before radios or

written orders, these instruments carried the rhythm of independence.

The earliest recorded gathering of fife and drummers in Deep River dates to May 13, 1879, when

musicians assembled for a field day to honor the history of fife and drum music in the American

Revolution. That spirit of remembrance and celebration laid the foundation for what would become the

world’s most renowned muster.

The Granddaddy of All Musters

The first gathering officially known as the Deep River Ancient Muster took place on September 5, 1953,

when 15 corps gathered in Connecticut to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Deep River Drum Corps.

Since that day, the muster has grown into the largest gathering of ancient fife and drum musicians in the

world.

In 1976, during America’s Bicentennial, the Deep River Ancient Muster set a record that was recognized

by the Guinness Book of World Records, cementing its reputation as the “granddaddy of all

musters.” Every year since 1953, corps from across the United States and around the world have traveled

to Deep River to take part in this living history.

A Living Tradition, Handed Down Through Generations

This tradition has been enthusiastically passed from generation to generation, ensuring that the music of

America’s founding era continues to be played, taught, and shared.

Every third Saturday in July, the piercing call of wooden fifes and the thunderous beat of rope-tension

snare and bass drums echo through the town of Deep River.

The weekend begins Friday evening with a ceremonial Tattoo, hosted by the Deep River Junior Ancient

Fife and Drum Corps, featuring five performing Corps, followed by a Circle of Friendship and a Jam

session.

On Saturday, thousands of spectators line Main Street seated on blankets and chairs as traditionally

dressed men, women, and children march past—representing corps from across the nation and the world.

These are civilian musicians, preserving the skills and music that once rallied Revolutionary soldiers.

Have you ever seen the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, part of the United States Army’s Presidential

Escort Division? In certain years they, too march down Main Street in Deep River, standing shoulder to

shoulder with civilian corps in a remarkable tribute to our shared military and civilian heritage.

After the parade, the celebration continues at Devitt Field, where the atmosphere feels like a colonial

Woodstock. Corps perform on stand, showcasing distinct musical styles rooted in history along with a

few examples demonstrating modern influences. Spectators reconnect with old friends, make new ones,

and experience the music up close. Many even take a moment to try their own hand at fife or drum,

ensuring the tradition continues.

Who Hosts the Muster

The Deep River Ancient Muster is organized by the Deep River Ancient Muster Committee, part of Deep

River Ancient Muster Incorporated. It is not sponsored by any single corps.

Our committee is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers from across the country including

Connecticut, Michigan, Florida, Indiana, and beyond who work year-round to bring this extraordinary

event to life.

Why We Need Your Support

Hosting the National Muster during America’s 250th Anniversary is a tremendous honor and a substantial

responsibility. The costs to produce an event of this scale include:

• Field rental and weekend-long maintenance

• Permits

• Muster meals for participating corps

• Honorary Plaques

• Ribbons for all attending corps

• Porta-potties and hand sanitization stations

• Line painting and fire safety markings

• Dumpster rentals and waste management

• Numerous essential supplies, down to garbage bags for bins

Every donation helps ensure that this historic celebration remains free, accessible, and authentic, honoring

the legacy of the music that helped give birth to our nation.

Help Us Keep the Sound of Independence Alive