1st Battalion Regimental Colour 1881-1899

Up until 1881 the Regimental Colours of the Northumberland Fusiliers were gosling green to match their facings, but in 1881 all the English non-royal regiments were ordered to wear white facings and carry regimental Colours with the red cross of St George. This should have suited the regiment since they had St George as their ancient badge, but they lobbied for the return of their gosling green facings and their wish was granted in 1899.
The battle honours are placed, four in each quarter, making 16 which means that the last honour is AFGHANISTAN 1879-80. The next honour to go on the Colours was KHARTOUM which was gained after 1898. The device in the corners, of the red and white slipped rose, would seem to match the red and white plume worn on the head-dress but it is in fact a badge granted in 1751 to the six Holland Regiments that served under the Prince of Orange from 1674 to 1685. Only two of the original six regiments survived, the 5th and 6th Foot. The rose is called 'slipped' meaning the inclusion of the stem and leaves.

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