The Value of Militia Records
During colonial days, it was required to join the local militia in your area. The enlistment age was 16 and 50 years. Thus, you can generalize the age of your ancestor by locating his date of enlistment. Local militia records usually included the Names of soldiers in company’s and regiments. Usually, the officers were listed first. This information helps the genealogist to zero in on where the ancestor resided for certain time periods. Then, go to the area (county records) and search there. Do not forget to search the wills, estates, marriages,
tax digests and deed records!