Private in Marching Order c1776


Gerry Embleton's illustration of a 42nd Highlander is dressed for campaigning in America c1776. The kilt has been put aside and replaced by makeshift trousers sewn together from white canvas. The broadsword that had been carried by the Highlanders since the raising of the regiment, was found to be too cumbersome in the forests, and other weapons like bayonets or the small axe were used instead. The short red coat has blue facings with white lace that has the regimental pattern of a red line along one side. The button loops are bastion shaped as stipulated in the 1768 Warrant. His waistcoat is white, following the orders of the same Warrant. An inspection return of June 1784 wrote this;

'Halifax, Nova Scotia. The 42nd could not appear in their full uniform for want of plaids, etc., which the CO thought proper annually to dispose of during the late war, to purchase a more commodious dress for the American service, with the approbation of the Commander-in-Chief. The regiment appeared remarkably clean dressed - the men had on white strong ticken trousers with short black gaiters.'


Regimental Details | Uniforms


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