Corporal, November 1854


This is how the Coldstream Guards looked at the Battle of Inkerman. The wearing of the bearskin helped the combatants recognise the Guards in the fog and darkness, since the Russians wore flat forage caps. The greatcoat gave them some warmth but they were of poor quality compared with the thick material of the Russian coats. In fact the British soldiers were advised to use their bayonets on the Russians' faces as they would not be able to penetrate the coat material. Belts and equipment were worn over the coat for easy access. He has a thin strap over his right shoulder for his waterbottle. The Minie rifle he is holding is a percussion, muzzle-loader capable of firing two rounds a minute. The small white pouch on the front of his pouchbelt is for percussion caps.


Uniforms | Regimental Details


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by Stephen Luscombe