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CAVALRY REGIMENTS (1) POSTCARDS
Captain, Review Order, 17th Lancers
The illustration shows a Captain of the 17th Lancers (Duke of Cambridge's
Own) dressed in review order. The distinctive headdress worn by the
Lancers was adopted from the Polish schapka, or flat-topped cap, with a
feather plume.
The 17th Lancers wear a white swan's feather plume which is 14 inches high
at the front. Gold gimp and orris cord encircle the cap once then drop
down the back, come over the right shoulder and loop across to the left
breast.
Their original function being to save the expensive cap if it should be
knocked off during battle or on manoeuvres. The blue cloth double breasted
tunic has white front, collar and cuffs.
White leather gauntlets are worn. The 'Death's head badge can be seen
clearly on the saddle cloth on the horse. At the date of the photograph,
1896, there were six captains serving in the regiment.
The scull and crossbones, which formed part of the badge resulted in the
regiment being known as 'Death of Glory Boys'
This text was kindly researched and prepared by Alan
Harfield (FR Hist S)
Copyright © 1989 Published by Geoff White Ltd.
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