Drum used by the 8th Division of the Rostock Burghers

The citizens are responsible for defending the city and maintaining public order. They are organised in Fahnen (divisions formed according to districts) and are required to provide some of their own equipment. The council issues other items. The infantry drum bearing the city's crest is part of the equipment belonging to the 8th Division. It is used by the drummer to sound the alarm and during parades.

The burgher divisions store and manage their own equipment. The council demands the return of municipally owned items and drums in 1758 in response to irregularities. Some of the divisions do not return any – or only defective – equipment, which is typical of the problems associated with this form of military constitution.