Revolutionary War mess kit on display at the Harlin Museum

The Harlin Museum invites visitors to view a remarkable artifact from the American Revolution on display in its military exhibit.

 

The mess kit was carried by Joshua Wayland, a fifer and drummer in Captain John Gillison's Company, 10th Virginia Regiment during the Revolutionary War. Wayland endured the harsh winter encampment at Valley Forge and later played the fife at the execution of Major John André, the British officer whose capture exposed Benedict Arnold's treason against the Continental Army.

 

The artifact was presented to the Harlin Museum by Wayland Ford, the great-great-grandson of Joshua Wayland, preserving an important piece of Revolutionary War history for future generations.

 

This simple mess kit offers a tangible connection to the daily life of a Continental soldier who witnessed pivotal moments in America's fight for independence. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Harlin Museum and see this extraordinary artifact as part of the museum's military exhibit.