He was involved in controversial issuance of currency.[4] A northerner, he took part in fusionist tax protests after his time in office.[5]
Musgrove was appointed to be the Secretary of State of Mississippi by Mississippi's "Special Order No. 195" on September 10, 1869, succeeding Alexander Warner.[1][6] He resigned from the position in December 1869 and became the State Auditor.[1][7]
He died after a long illness August 1, 1879 in Chicago.[3] At the time of his death he has been working as a banker and was a significant property owner.[3]