``The custom of paying tribute in this unique way, mirroring the long ago past, has annually drawn serious lovers of American history to this spot,'' said association president Anne Dolan.

The militiamen are part of the Howard's Company from Fort Western. At the command ``fire'' the men raise their muskets to the sky and a great booming salute resounds in the forest cemetery next to the 1761 court house.

The cemetery is the final resting place for soldiers of the Revolutionary War, along with veterans and families of old Dresden. When the smoke of the final salute clears, children come forward to lay bouquets of wildflowers on the soldiers' graves. Prayers are read by Rev. Alexander, representing the historic St. John's Church in Dresden Mills, and the party marches back to the parade ground.

Beside the court house a young visitor will raise the flag, and the militiamen fire another salute and march slowly away. Some of the visitors then walk the nature trail by the Kennebec River while others enjoy a picnic lunch on the expansive front lawn.

All are welcome, at no charge, to experience the traditional observances at the Pownalborough Court House on Route 128 in Dresden, about 2 1/2 miles from Route 27.