Following the American Revolution, the newly created Massachusetts Constitution asserted the need for a state militia. The Gloucester Artillery was organized in 1788 and held yearly "general training" sessions. These sessions involved great pomp and circumstance in which militiamen paraded through streets, visited neighboring towns, conducted public arms exercises, and enjoyed food and entertainment. The Gloucester Artillery disbanded in 1849, reformed in 1852, and eventually was renamed the American Guard in 1855.

In the nineteenth century, Lynn, Massachusetts, supported three militia companies: the Lynn Artillery, the Lynn Light Infantry, and the Lynn Mechanic's Rifle Company. As a result of partisan tensions, the local Republican Party formed the Lynn Artillery in 1808.