As with many Northeastern U.S. towns, Deep River, CT is no different in that they are home to a fife and drum corps. In fact, the Deep River’s Ancient Fife and Drum Corps hosts one of the Nation's largest fife and drum musters; an event that showcases the musical talents of fife and drum units from around the country.  Continuing on our 50th Anniversary Muster Tour, the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps participated in this popular Connecticut event, reconnecting with others in the genre that keep this important part of Americana alive.

It is notable to point out that Deep River’s Ancient Fife and Drum Muster is an important event in the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps’ history.  In July 1960, at only five months old, the Army’s newly formed Fife and Drum Corps participated in the event, showcasing the Army’s commitment to keeping their traditions alive. This was the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps’ first public fife and drum event.

This year approximately 70 fife and drum corps participated in the event, battling extreme temperatures nearing 100 degrees! Despite the heat, all participants had a great time, sharing their love of music and dedication to a part of America. The Soldiers of The Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps would like to extend our thanks for a wonderfully warm reception and chance to share a part of our special heritage with the citizens of Deep River and the other fife and drum corps in attendance.

We would also like to thank the Fifes and Drums of Colonial Williamsburg for including us in the special tribute to Mr. George Carroll; a gentleman who was integral in the development of both units.  

The next stop on our 50th Anniversary Muster Tour will be the Westbrook Fife and Drum Muster in Westbrook, CT on August 28, 2010. Information on remaining 50th Anniversary events can be found on our website at www.army.mil/fifeanddrum/50th.html or by checking the latest updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fifeanddrum.