Manufactured from 1844 to 1855, the 1842 Musket was a primary infantry arm for both Union and Confederate forces in the opening years of the Civil War. Blade front sight, with "V/P/eagle head" on the upper left side of the chamber, and "SPRING/FIELD/1851" on the lock. Smooth stock, with "FRANK" and "EATON" carved on either side of the trigger guard, "FE" on the right buttstock, a starburst on the left, and a "US" buttplate. Included with the musket is a large collection of records photocopied by the National Archives related to Private Frank Eaton of the 68th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Mustering in January 1862 for a 3-year term, Eaton suffered a wound (described as either a shell or gunshot wound) to his right leg during the first day of the Battle of Shiloh, aka Battle of Pittsburgh Landing.