The Derby Ram 1899

The ram was the mascot of the 95th Foot from 1858 onwards when the regiment acquired him in India during the Mutiny. It seems that he was pitted against other rams in staged fights, winning 33 matches without any losses. He accompanied the 95th on campaign, attending 6 battles and marching 3,000 miles.
The first ram was given a medal for the campaign and a replica has been worn by his successors ever since. There is still a ram mascot paraded with the present day regiment, one of five mascots recognised by the establishment.
The ram is traditionally called Private Derby. The one shown here, in 1899, has a jacket which is in the white facings colour with a red edge, green laurels and gold battle honours on red backing. The soldier on the left seems to be his carer. Later this task would be taken on by a bandsman. The drum-major stands on the right in his white sash and rather plain tunic. His collar has a slim gold lace edge and he has gold laced red wings on his shoulder. His waist-belt is dark in colour which seems odd as everyone else has a white belt.

Regimental Mascots | Regimental details