Drum-Major c1870

At this time the Corps of Drums was dressed in similar fashion to the rest of the regiment while the musicians had distinctive wings on their shoulders. The drum-major was equal to a staff sergeant even though he had four chevrons, and a drum badge. His collar is not edged in gold lace like the RSM but the collar badges show clearly. The most striking aspect of his uniform is the drum-major's belt worn over the left shoulder. It is made of the facing colour, yellow, and shows up in this photo as pale while his yellow collar appears dark. The edges are unusual in having gold lace in the form of tight waves. The badge is a fine piece of embroidery surmounted by a crown. Below the badge are two miniature drumsticks, ebony with silver mounts. His white leather waist-belt supports a sword and is fastened with a brass clasp having 34 in the middle.

Regimental Band | Regimental details