Ashanti War 1874


For the fighting in West Africa the Black Watch were issued with more suitable campaign uniform than previously. They put aside their red doublets, kilts and bonnets and were given khaki tunics, pale breeches and gaiters. The khaki-covered tropical helmets had a red hackle on the left side. The men in this painting by Orlando Norie are carrying water-bottles and haversacks, with a brown leather ammunition pouch attached to the front of their white leather waist-belt. They are armed with the Snider rifle which was a single-loader with brass cartridges.


Regimental Details


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by Stephen Luscombe