The Introduction:
The following material has been presented to give a brief history of the Royal Artillery Regiment and of the Artillery Company that we have chosen to portray. This material has also been compiled to help us to portray this persona as accurately as possible. It has also been presented to enhance our knowledge of this time period.
The material is also being provided so that our members are aware of all the things that we as Royal Artillerist would have encountered. Some of this material also contains knowledge that we as artillerist would be aware of. Many of these items are artillery specific, while others are Regiment specific.
One major point to keep in mind with some of the Regiment specific items is when they became official. Many of the traditions, customs and practices were in use long before they became officially sanctioned by Royal decree. These are included to give a since of nostalgia, comradeship and Regimental honor.
The Origins:
In the early days of the British Empire, the artillery used by the Army in the time of war, and was manned by men employed by the Board of Ordnance, instead of soldiers. The artillery was stored in the Tower of London as had all weapons and military stores since 1455. Charles II carefully organized the Board of Ordnance. There were up to 100 gunners on the permanent staff, but the Master of Ordnance would take on men to move and fire the artillery when war broke out and disband them when hostilities ceased.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery:
By Royal Warrant of King George I, two companies of Artillery were formed at Woolwich on May 26, 1716. These two companies would be known as the Regiment of Artillery. The title "Royal Artillery" (RA) was first used in 1720. Woolwich would be the home of the Royal Regiment of Artillery for many years to come.
Each company consisted of 5 officers, 9 NCOs, 30 gunners and 50 matross. A matross was to assist the gunners in traversing, sponging, loading and firing the guns.
In April of 1722 the Regiment was enlarged by the addition of the independent Artillery companies in Gibraltar and the island of Minorca. The regiment expanded very rapidly. A cadet company was formed in 1741 and during 1748 the presidential artilleries of Bengal, Madras and Bombay were formed. In 1756 the Royal Irish Regiment of Artillery was created. The Regiment would continue to grow and detachments would be deployed throughout the Empire. These places would be Newfoundland, Annapolis and at Halifax. By 1757, the Regiment consisted of 24 Companies and would eventually be divided into 2 Battalions. By 1771 there were 32 companies in four battalions, as well as two "invalid companies" comprising of older and unfit men employed in garrison duties.
The Regiment would distinguish itself throughout the conflicts of the 1700’s. They would see service in the War of the Quadruple Alliance 1718 - 1720, which included the Spanish led Jacobite uprising at the Battle of Glen Shiel 1719, the War of the Austrian Succession 1740 - 1748 and the Jacobite Uprising of 1746.
The Regiment would continue to serve in the many campaigns of the Seven Years War, 1756 – 1763. This would actually be a world war. The conflict would involve actions in Europe, India, The Philippines, the West Indies, South America, Africa and North America
The following material has been presented to give a brief history of the Royal Artillery Regiment and of the Artillery Company that we have chosen to portray. This material has also been compiled to help us to portray this persona as accurately as possible. It has also been presented to enhance our knowledge of this time period.
The material is also being provided so that our members are aware of all the things that we as Royal Artillerist would have encountered. Some of this material also contains knowledge that we as artillerist would be aware of. Many of these items are artillery specific, while others are Regiment specific.
One major point to keep in mind with some of the Regiment specific items is when they became official. Many of the traditions, customs and practices were in use long before they became officially sanctioned by Royal decree. These are included to give a since of nostalgia, comradeship and Regimental honor.
The Origins:
In the early days of the British Empire, the artillery used by the Army in the time of war, and was manned by men employed by the Board of Ordnance, instead of soldiers. The artillery was stored in the Tower of London as had all weapons and military stores since 1455. Charles II carefully organized the Board of Ordnance. There were up to 100 gunners on the permanent staff, but the Master of Ordnance would take on men to move and fire the artillery when war broke out and disband them when hostilities ceased.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery:
By Royal Warrant of King George I, two companies of Artillery were formed at Woolwich on May 26, 1716. These two companies would be known as the Regiment of Artillery. The title "Royal Artillery" (RA) was first used in 1720. Woolwich would be the home of the Royal Regiment of Artillery for many years to come.
Each company consisted of 5 officers, 9 NCOs, 30 gunners and 50 matross. A matross was to assist the gunners in traversing, sponging, loading and firing the guns.
In April of 1722 the Regiment was enlarged by the addition of the independent Artillery companies in Gibraltar and the island of Minorca. The regiment expanded very rapidly. A cadet company was formed in 1741 and during 1748 the presidential artilleries of Bengal, Madras and Bombay were formed. In 1756 the Royal Irish Regiment of Artillery was created. The Regiment would continue to grow and detachments would be deployed throughout the Empire. These places would be Newfoundland, Annapolis and at Halifax. By 1757, the Regiment consisted of 24 Companies and would eventually be divided into 2 Battalions. By 1771 there were 32 companies in four battalions, as well as two "invalid companies" comprising of older and unfit men employed in garrison duties.
The Regiment would distinguish itself throughout the conflicts of the 1700’s. They would see service in the War of the Quadruple Alliance 1718 - 1720, which included the Spanish led Jacobite uprising at the Battle of Glen Shiel 1719, the War of the Austrian Succession 1740 - 1748 and the Jacobite Uprising of 1746.
The Regiment would continue to serve in the many campaigns of the Seven Years War, 1756 – 1763. This would actually be a world war. The conflict would involve actions in Europe, India, The Philippines, the West Indies, South America, Africa and North America
This painting by Morier is in the Royal collection and shows the Artillery in Holland. The officer standing in the middle of the mounted officers has an arm missing. This identifies him as Lieutenant-General Albert Borgard, the first Colonel-Commandant of the Royal Artillery. He lost his arm at the Siege of Cuidad Rodrigo in 1706. The officers have red waistcoats and breeches while the other ranks have blue.
The Siege of Havana 1762
The 2nd Battalion, Royal Regiment of Artillery:
On August 1, 1757 the Regiment of Royal Artillery was divided into 2 Battalions by his grace the Duke of Marlborough, having been commanded to by King George II. Each Battalion would be comprised of 12 companies. Each Battalion would also have their own Field Officers as well.
The Staff of the 2nd Battalion consisted of Col. Borgard Michaelson, Lt. Col. George Williamson, Major Thomas Flight, Adjutant Duncan Drummond and Quartermaster John Pomroy.
The 2nd Battalion would be comprised of Ord’s, Skeddy’s, Godwin’s, Maitland’s, Hislop’s, Farrington’s, Tovey’s, Northal’s, Strachey’s, Martin’s and Smith’s Companies of Royal Artillery. Ord’s, Godwin’s and Strachey’s Companies were on campaign in North America. Each Battalion would also contain a Cadet Company.
Thomas Ord’s Company:
In February 1755 Major-General Braddock arrived in America with a detachment of 50 men from the Royal Regiment of Artillery, the 44th Regiment and the 48th Regiment of Foot. Captain-Lieutenant Robert Hind commanded the detachment which was comprised of 2 Lieutenants, 3 Fireworkers and 1 Cadet. There was also 5 Engineers and Practitioner Engineers. There were 21 conductors and artificers attached as well. There were also 10 servants and 6 necessary women.
The cannon that were sent with this detachment were all light Brass pieces. There were 4 x 12-pounders and 6 x 6-pounders.
Upon this detachments arrival,Thomas Ord, being the Captain of the Company in Newfoundland, was ordered by the Duke of Cumberland to take command of this detachment.
This was the first detachment sent to America as reinforcements for mthe new conflict that was brewing in the Ohio Valley region. There was already some Royal Artillery Companies that was stationed throughout North America. In June, 1743 we find that 1 Company was stationed at the fishing post in New Foundland (Cleveland 229). Captain Charles Brome Company is listed in 1755 (Cleveland ) as being assigned to Nova Scotia. This was divided between the Fort at Annapolis and the Citadel at Halifax.
On July 8th, most of this detachment was cut to pieces on the Monongahela near Fort Duquesne. General Braddock, 20 officers and 200 men were killed. 1 total of 27 officers and 400 men were injured. One of the injured officers was Col Williamson’s son who was there serving as an Captain of Engineers. They also lost all ten of the Brass pieces, which were captured whole.
Ord would survive and his Company of Artillery would serve throughout America until they would be joined by Lt. Col. George Williamson, along with Godwin’s and Strachy’s Company’s of Royal Artillery . Col. Williamson arrived at Halifax with 370 able bodied artillerists ready to participate in the invasion of Louisburg. This group would join the 30 other artillerists already there.
It was during this assignment that the Officers of the Royal Artillery serving in the field, would receive for the first time bat-money. Captain Ord, ordered each officer to be paid in cash, a sum equal to what was allowed by the Board of Ordnance for the contracting of horses and carriages. This was based off the allowances used in the War in Flanders. A Captain was allowed 1 wagon and 4 horses to transport his baggage. 1 wagon and 4 horses were allowed for two junior officers.
On August 1, 1757 the Regiment of Royal Artillery was divided into 2 Battalions by his grace the Duke of Marlborough, having been commanded to by King George II. Each Battalion would be comprised of 12 companies. Each Battalion would also have their own Field Officers as well.
The Staff of the 2nd Battalion consisted of Col. Borgard Michaelson, Lt. Col. George Williamson, Major Thomas Flight, Adjutant Duncan Drummond and Quartermaster John Pomroy.
The 2nd Battalion would be comprised of Ord’s, Skeddy’s, Godwin’s, Maitland’s, Hislop’s, Farrington’s, Tovey’s, Northal’s, Strachey’s, Martin’s and Smith’s Companies of Royal Artillery. Ord’s, Godwin’s and Strachey’s Companies were on campaign in North America. Each Battalion would also contain a Cadet Company.
Thomas Ord’s Company:
In February 1755 Major-General Braddock arrived in America with a detachment of 50 men from the Royal Regiment of Artillery, the 44th Regiment and the 48th Regiment of Foot. Captain-Lieutenant Robert Hind commanded the detachment which was comprised of 2 Lieutenants, 3 Fireworkers and 1 Cadet. There was also 5 Engineers and Practitioner Engineers. There were 21 conductors and artificers attached as well. There were also 10 servants and 6 necessary women.
The cannon that were sent with this detachment were all light Brass pieces. There were 4 x 12-pounders and 6 x 6-pounders.
Upon this detachments arrival,Thomas Ord, being the Captain of the Company in Newfoundland, was ordered by the Duke of Cumberland to take command of this detachment.
This was the first detachment sent to America as reinforcements for mthe new conflict that was brewing in the Ohio Valley region. There was already some Royal Artillery Companies that was stationed throughout North America. In June, 1743 we find that 1 Company was stationed at the fishing post in New Foundland (Cleveland 229). Captain Charles Brome Company is listed in 1755 (Cleveland ) as being assigned to Nova Scotia. This was divided between the Fort at Annapolis and the Citadel at Halifax.
On July 8th, most of this detachment was cut to pieces on the Monongahela near Fort Duquesne. General Braddock, 20 officers and 200 men were killed. 1 total of 27 officers and 400 men were injured. One of the injured officers was Col Williamson’s son who was there serving as an Captain of Engineers. They also lost all ten of the Brass pieces, which were captured whole.
Ord would survive and his Company of Artillery would serve throughout America until they would be joined by Lt. Col. George Williamson, along with Godwin’s and Strachy’s Company’s of Royal Artillery . Col. Williamson arrived at Halifax with 370 able bodied artillerists ready to participate in the invasion of Louisburg. This group would join the 30 other artillerists already there.
It was during this assignment that the Officers of the Royal Artillery serving in the field, would receive for the first time bat-money. Captain Ord, ordered each officer to be paid in cash, a sum equal to what was allowed by the Board of Ordnance for the contracting of horses and carriages. This was based off the allowances used in the War in Flanders. A Captain was allowed 1 wagon and 4 horses to transport his baggage. 1 wagon and 4 horses were allowed for two junior officers.
Captain Brome’s Co. The Siege of Louisbourg 1758, David Rowland
Bomb Vessels and the Royal Artillery:
Since the early 1700’s the use of a special ship known as a Bomb Vessels were commonly used in sieges. These vessels were specially designed craft that carried large siege mortars within the decks of the ships. These mortars could rotate and were capable of hurdling large shells onto its targets. Even though this type ship was a Royal Navy vessel, the mortars were manned by Bombardiers from the Royal Regiment of Artillery.
The men that manned the Bomb Vessels in the Mediterranean and the West Indies were provided for from the 2 Companies garrisoned at Woolwich.
This Type ship as used in the Sieges of Louisburg, Manila, Rochefort and the various raids along the French Coast. This Bomb vessel played an important role in our Nations National Anthem. The “Bombs Bursting in Air” was the in result the mortars of the Bomb vessels employed against Fort McHenry.
Since the early 1700’s the use of a special ship known as a Bomb Vessels were commonly used in sieges. These vessels were specially designed craft that carried large siege mortars within the decks of the ships. These mortars could rotate and were capable of hurdling large shells onto its targets. Even though this type ship was a Royal Navy vessel, the mortars were manned by Bombardiers from the Royal Regiment of Artillery.
The men that manned the Bomb Vessels in the Mediterranean and the West Indies were provided for from the 2 Companies garrisoned at Woolwich.
This Type ship as used in the Sieges of Louisburg, Manila, Rochefort and the various raids along the French Coast. This Bomb vessel played an important role in our Nations National Anthem. The “Bombs Bursting in Air” was the in result the mortars of the Bomb vessels employed against Fort McHenry.
Bomb ketches or Bomb vessels were usually named after Volcanoes. There were 3 types. One was purpose built, the second Type was converted. The Third Type was captured-converted. The Purpose Built Type had hulls made thick, to resist the recoil from the mortars. They were usually outfitted as Ketches. Because of their durability the purpose built were used as exploration Vessels. After the SYW, some were used in expeditions to the Arctic. They were also used in Voyages to the west coast in search of the Northwest Passage. They played an important role in discovering Vancouver Island. Some were also used for Prison and Hospital Ships.
The HMS Infernal a purposed built type, was an 8-gun bomb vessel of the Royal Navy, constructed in 1757 and in service until 1763. Designed by Thomas Slade, she was the prototype for six subsequent Infernal Class Bomb Vessels, which saw service in the Mediterranean and the West Indies during the Seven Years' War. In 1760 she was refitted as a sloop and returned to active service in the Caribbean. She was paid off at the conclusion of the War in 1763, and sold out of Navy service in 1774.
The Granado was a converted Type vessel, being converted from a sloop. She was designed by the naval architect Thomas Slade, who also designed the H.M.S. Victory. Granado was launched June 20, 1742. She began her career as intelligence gathering and intercepting smugglers and privateers. Afrer fearing another major war with France,, the Admiralty converted her to a bomb vessel in 1755. As a bomb vessel she performed her duties admirably and ended her career with the close of the Seven Years' War in 1763. The Racehorse was an 18-gun ship-rigged (i.e. three-masted) sloop of the Royal Navy, later refitted as a survey vessel. She was originally the 18-gun French privateer Marquis de Vaudreuil, captured from the French in 1757 during the Seven Years' War and purchased for the British Navy on 28 April 1757. As she was a three-masted vessel, she was described as a 'frigate', but as she mounted just 18 guns, she was actually registered as a sloop.
In this role, she served her first commission (from June 1757 to 1758) under Commander Francis Burslem in home waters. She was reclassed and refitted as a fireship (re-armed with just eight 6-pounders), and then as a bomb vessel and was recommissioned under Commander Francis Richards for service in North American waters. By 1760 she was re-armed as a 'frigate' again, with 16 guns, under Commander James Harmood and later under Commander John Macartney until paid off in 1763.
The HMS Infernal a purposed built type, was an 8-gun bomb vessel of the Royal Navy, constructed in 1757 and in service until 1763. Designed by Thomas Slade, she was the prototype for six subsequent Infernal Class Bomb Vessels, which saw service in the Mediterranean and the West Indies during the Seven Years' War. In 1760 she was refitted as a sloop and returned to active service in the Caribbean. She was paid off at the conclusion of the War in 1763, and sold out of Navy service in 1774.
The Granado was a converted Type vessel, being converted from a sloop. She was designed by the naval architect Thomas Slade, who also designed the H.M.S. Victory. Granado was launched June 20, 1742. She began her career as intelligence gathering and intercepting smugglers and privateers. Afrer fearing another major war with France,, the Admiralty converted her to a bomb vessel in 1755. As a bomb vessel she performed her duties admirably and ended her career with the close of the Seven Years' War in 1763. The Racehorse was an 18-gun ship-rigged (i.e. three-masted) sloop of the Royal Navy, later refitted as a survey vessel. She was originally the 18-gun French privateer Marquis de Vaudreuil, captured from the French in 1757 during the Seven Years' War and purchased for the British Navy on 28 April 1757. As she was a three-masted vessel, she was described as a 'frigate', but as she mounted just 18 guns, she was actually registered as a sloop.
In this role, she served her first commission (from June 1757 to 1758) under Commander Francis Burslem in home waters. She was reclassed and refitted as a fireship (re-armed with just eight 6-pounders), and then as a bomb vessel and was recommissioned under Commander Francis Richards for service in North American waters. By 1760 she was re-armed as a 'frigate' again, with 16 guns, under Commander James Harmood and later under Commander John Macartney until paid off in 1763.
The Bomb Vessels, although they carried mortars, also carried other armaments, This was to protect them while en-route to their appointed task. The Racehorse carried 1 x 13 in mortar, 1 x 10 in mortar, 8 x 6-pounder and 12 x ½ -pounders . The Grenado had 1 × 13in mortar, 1 × 10in mortar, 14 x 6-pounders and 12 x ½-pound swivels. The Infernal carried 1 × 13in mortar, 1 × 10in mortar, 8 × 6 –pounders and 12 × ½ pound swivels.
This type vessel would be used well up to the 20th century when they were replaced by the ships of the WW I era, which had long range capabilities. These were great for sieges and bombardments.
The Regimental Colors:
During the Seven Years War time period, the Royal Artillery Regiment did not have Regimental Colors as the British Infantry Regiments had. The Colors of the Royal Regiment of Artillery are its guns. When on parade or ceremonial occasions, these weapons are accorded the same compliments as the Standards, Guidons and Colors of the Household Cavalry and Infantry.
The guns became the Colors of the Regiment through the practice in its early history of carrying the equivalent of today's Queen's Color on the largest piece in an artillery train, which was designated the 'Flag Gun'. The Flag Gun was used until the end of the 18th century, and after this period the guns themselves came to be regarded as the Colors of the Artillery.
This type vessel would be used well up to the 20th century when they were replaced by the ships of the WW I era, which had long range capabilities. These were great for sieges and bombardments.
The Regimental Colors:
During the Seven Years War time period, the Royal Artillery Regiment did not have Regimental Colors as the British Infantry Regiments had. The Colors of the Royal Regiment of Artillery are its guns. When on parade or ceremonial occasions, these weapons are accorded the same compliments as the Standards, Guidons and Colors of the Household Cavalry and Infantry.
The guns became the Colors of the Regiment through the practice in its early history of carrying the equivalent of today's Queen's Color on the largest piece in an artillery train, which was designated the 'Flag Gun'. The Flag Gun was used until the end of the 18th century, and after this period the guns themselves came to be regarded as the Colors of the Artillery.
From David Morier’s Painting
The “Flag Gun”, according to Cleveland carried the Royal Standard and indicated the Headquarters of the Army. In Mueller’s treatise of Artillery, we find an Ordnance Stores list dated 1747. This list was compiled for a campaign during the war of the Austrian Succession. On page 185, we find mentioned that 2 Union and 1 Red flag were included. The warrants of 1747 call for a flag measurement of 74 X 78, on a pike with spear point 9 ft. 10 inches in length.
In Duncan’s book on the History of the Royal Artillery, we find that in camp at “Viller’s”, August 7th, 1746 that the Court Martial was to be held at the “Flag Gun”. At the camp at Montagny. August 17th, 1746 that the the gunner assigned to the Flag Gun, marches with a lighted match. Also in Duncan’s we see that a General Stringer Lawrence in India, said that his post could be found by the English Colors carried on his Flag Gun.
It is believed with this data that a Union Flag was carried on the Flag Gun.
How the gun was carried is another point of confusion. In a wood cut dated 1722, shows that a Union flag is carried on the gun carriage by being attached to the barrel. In another print it shows the flag attached to the gun carriage itself.
We also see that the Flag gun Lawson’s Vol. 2, page 189) , as well as wafons with flags attached show particular sections of the Train of Artillery. The Flag gun indicated wherte in the procession the guns were located. A red Flag indicates where the wagons were. A white flag indicated where the pontoons were to be found (Records, W.O. 55/352). In the inventory list of the displacement of the Train in 1756, we see (Duncans page 249) we see this as well, without the description of the type or color of the flag.
In Duncan’s book on the History of the Royal Artillery, we find that in camp at “Viller’s”, August 7th, 1746 that the Court Martial was to be held at the “Flag Gun”. At the camp at Montagny. August 17th, 1746 that the the gunner assigned to the Flag Gun, marches with a lighted match. Also in Duncan’s we see that a General Stringer Lawrence in India, said that his post could be found by the English Colors carried on his Flag Gun.
It is believed with this data that a Union Flag was carried on the Flag Gun.
How the gun was carried is another point of confusion. In a wood cut dated 1722, shows that a Union flag is carried on the gun carriage by being attached to the barrel. In another print it shows the flag attached to the gun carriage itself.
We also see that the Flag gun Lawson’s Vol. 2, page 189) , as well as wafons with flags attached show particular sections of the Train of Artillery. The Flag gun indicated wherte in the procession the guns were located. A red Flag indicates where the wagons were. A white flag indicated where the pontoons were to be found (Records, W.O. 55/352). In the inventory list of the displacement of the Train in 1756, we see (Duncans page 249) we see this as well, without the description of the type or color of the flag.
We see in several pictures, paintings and descriptions the use of flags. We also see the use of of flags and pendants. We however are unsure as to the purpose for some. In a Inventory list as early as 1715 (Lawson’s Vol. 2) we see this. “Quarter Colors on staves shod with iron, Ensign 8 yards fly and 8 Breadth woth 4 unions in one quarter, White Pendant, 15 yds. Gly 1 yd . broad at the head with three black balls, Jack flags and Union flags.” We see and read about flags being used by work parties from the Royal Artillery. We see a Sandby drawing in the 1740’s where in Scotland a survey party is using a flag other than rgw inw used by the surveyors. Its being deployed as if to identify their presence. Also In Scotland another party is marking roads being shown with a flag in much the same way.
Camp Colors:
In both the Clothing Warrants of 1747 and 1768, we find that Camp Colors of 18 inches square on a staff of 7 feet and 6 inches in length. The exception to this would be the rear and quarter guard who are to have theirs be 9 feet long. Also, the warrants call for the color of camp colors to be that of the facing of the uniform with the numeral of the regiment upon them.
In Mueller’s Treatise of Artillery, the 1747 Ordnance list, we find on page 184 that 40 quarter colors with staves were required. Quarter colors are also referred to as Camp colors. In the 1754 Ordnance list found in Fairfax Downey’s book Carronade, we find the list to contain Camp Colors. On page 336 we find that they mention 12 Camp colors. On page 339, in the Engineers equipment, we find 12 Camp Colors to be white in color, without cyphers and staves.
Camp Colors:
In both the Clothing Warrants of 1747 and 1768, we find that Camp Colors of 18 inches square on a staff of 7 feet and 6 inches in length. The exception to this would be the rear and quarter guard who are to have theirs be 9 feet long. Also, the warrants call for the color of camp colors to be that of the facing of the uniform with the numeral of the regiment upon them.
In Mueller’s Treatise of Artillery, the 1747 Ordnance list, we find on page 184 that 40 quarter colors with staves were required. Quarter colors are also referred to as Camp colors. In the 1754 Ordnance list found in Fairfax Downey’s book Carronade, we find the list to contain Camp Colors. On page 336 we find that they mention 12 Camp colors. On page 339, in the Engineers equipment, we find 12 Camp Colors to be white in color, without cyphers and staves.
It is assumed at this time, based upon the previous material that the GR II cipher was used on the Camp flags. The view of the trail of one of the guns in Morier’s painting of the Lowlands, we see the Cipher on the trail. The color of this flag should be blue, based upon the facing of the regiment, which was the practice of the period.
Music:
In pre-regimental days, when Trains of Artillery were raised as need demanded we find a drummer and a trumpeter at 1s. - 2s. (s. is the abbreviation for shilling) for per diem respectively in the train embodied for the Palatinate in 1620. But in the train of James II in 1685, a drummer only appears at 1s, although three years later two were allowed at 1s 2d. (d. is the abbreviation for pence) Yet when the Royal Regiment of Artillery was formed in 1716 there were drummers borne on the strength of the companies. It was not until 1720 that drummers per company at 1s. were granted. One of the first of the latter to be enlisted being Joseph Brome, who died as Lieut.-General in 1796. These drummers enjoyed the privilege of Royal Regiments of wearing red coats with blue facings.
During 1746-48 the fife, as a complement to the side drum, was revived in the British service. The Artillery fifers "being taught by John Ulrich, a Hanoverian fifer brought from Flanders by Colonel Belford, when the Allied Army separated in 1748.” Thus came into existence a body known as the "Corps of Drummers and Fifers," doing excellent service in its day. The fifers were not, at first, provided for on the establishment, but ways and means were found to add one fifer per company to the two drummers that were officially allowed. Later a fictitious name was entered on the muster-roll of each company to support the fifer.
A drum-major at 1s 4d a day had been borne on the strength of the Cadet company of the regiment since 1744. But in 1748 a fife-major was added, by which we see that the pay of both ranks was 11s 1 1/4d; whilst the 21 drummers (and fifers) had 9-1/2d. These rates continued until 1797, when the former received 2s 01/4d. It was increased to 2s. 2d in 1806; whilst the two latter were paid 1s. 3-1/4d. The proportion of fifers to drummers continued as it began at 1 to 2, as we see at a review of the regiment in Green Park in 1753 when one drum-major, ten drummers, and six fifers were present.
For some inexplicable reason we find that in the mid-century there were two drum-majors ~ John Hollingshead (appointed 1746) and Knowles Webster (appointed 1756) and two fife-majors ~ John Ulrich (appointed 1748) and John Beckert (appointed 1758). But in the year 1759 it was ordered that in future there be only one of each.
Regimental Music:
At this time we know of only one tune that is listed as used by the artillery. This is known as “The Train of Artillery Grenadiers March”. This can be found in the “Complete Tutor for the Fife”, by Rutherford, dated 1756. As more material becomes available, we will make the appropriate changes.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery’s Place in line:
The right of the line on parade has always been considered a post of honor allotted to the regiment or corps taking precedence over all others present.
Throughout the 18th century the guns came into action on the right of the infantry battalions they were to support. Probably for this reason, and also because the prestige of the artillery had grown enormously from the beginning of the century, the Gunners claimed the right of the line on parades.
Their claim went unchallenged until on a parade in 1756. A dispute arose between the Officer Commanding the artillery and Commanding Officer the Queen's Dragoon Guards over who should take the right. As neither officer would yield, the matter was referred to the Commander-in-Chief, the Duke of Cumberland, who confirmed that the artillery '...take the right of all foot on all parades, and likewise of dragoons when dismounted.' The Royal Artillery still take the same position.
Motto’s & Coat of Arms:
The official Motto & Coat of Arms were not granted by Royalty until 1832. The official documents mention that the Motto’s and Coat of Arms were to replace what was being used at the time. At this time we cannot find what these items replaced.
1st Motto – “Ubique”, which means “Everywhere” (granted by King William IV 1832);
2nd motto - “Quo Fas et Gloria Ducunt”, which means “Where Right and Glory lead”.
The Coat of Arms - is the Royal Arms and Supporters over a gun with the mottoes Ubique and Quo Fas ET Gloria Ducunt on scrolls above and below the gun (granted July 1832 by His Majesty King William IV). The original gun on the Coat of Arms was a 9 pound smooth bore with a wooden Carriage. This was replaced by a metal carriage in the 1870’s. The one shown above is the latter one because no earlier versions can be found.
Royal Artillery Holidays:
One of the things that I have noticed in all the things that I have read is the fact that the British celebrated various holidays. These holidays were in addition to the normal Christmas or Thanksgiving holidays of today.
The military, as found in Knox’s journals, we find that they celebrated the Kings Birthday and coronation day. The Saint’s days were also celebrated by specific regiments. The Royal Artillery would celebrate St. Barbara’s Day. The list as known at this time is:
Royal Artillery Day – The Royal Artillery birthday May 26, 1716
St. Barbara’s Day - December 4th
King George II Birthday - November 10, 1683
King George II Coronation day - October 11, 1727
Uniforms and Accouterments Orders:
This material is aimed at complimenting the earlier work on the uniforms and equipment of the Royal Artillery Regiment. The following will add to and fill in the gaps. The section on tents though it meant to be the rules by which we will abide by as The Royal Artillery regiment, 2nd Battalion, Ord’s Company.
Necessities list:
Music:
In pre-regimental days, when Trains of Artillery were raised as need demanded we find a drummer and a trumpeter at 1s. - 2s. (s. is the abbreviation for shilling) for per diem respectively in the train embodied for the Palatinate in 1620. But in the train of James II in 1685, a drummer only appears at 1s, although three years later two were allowed at 1s 2d. (d. is the abbreviation for pence) Yet when the Royal Regiment of Artillery was formed in 1716 there were drummers borne on the strength of the companies. It was not until 1720 that drummers per company at 1s. were granted. One of the first of the latter to be enlisted being Joseph Brome, who died as Lieut.-General in 1796. These drummers enjoyed the privilege of Royal Regiments of wearing red coats with blue facings.
During 1746-48 the fife, as a complement to the side drum, was revived in the British service. The Artillery fifers "being taught by John Ulrich, a Hanoverian fifer brought from Flanders by Colonel Belford, when the Allied Army separated in 1748.” Thus came into existence a body known as the "Corps of Drummers and Fifers," doing excellent service in its day. The fifers were not, at first, provided for on the establishment, but ways and means were found to add one fifer per company to the two drummers that were officially allowed. Later a fictitious name was entered on the muster-roll of each company to support the fifer.
A drum-major at 1s 4d a day had been borne on the strength of the Cadet company of the regiment since 1744. But in 1748 a fife-major was added, by which we see that the pay of both ranks was 11s 1 1/4d; whilst the 21 drummers (and fifers) had 9-1/2d. These rates continued until 1797, when the former received 2s 01/4d. It was increased to 2s. 2d in 1806; whilst the two latter were paid 1s. 3-1/4d. The proportion of fifers to drummers continued as it began at 1 to 2, as we see at a review of the regiment in Green Park in 1753 when one drum-major, ten drummers, and six fifers were present.
For some inexplicable reason we find that in the mid-century there were two drum-majors ~ John Hollingshead (appointed 1746) and Knowles Webster (appointed 1756) and two fife-majors ~ John Ulrich (appointed 1748) and John Beckert (appointed 1758). But in the year 1759 it was ordered that in future there be only one of each.
Regimental Music:
At this time we know of only one tune that is listed as used by the artillery. This is known as “The Train of Artillery Grenadiers March”. This can be found in the “Complete Tutor for the Fife”, by Rutherford, dated 1756. As more material becomes available, we will make the appropriate changes.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery’s Place in line:
The right of the line on parade has always been considered a post of honor allotted to the regiment or corps taking precedence over all others present.
Throughout the 18th century the guns came into action on the right of the infantry battalions they were to support. Probably for this reason, and also because the prestige of the artillery had grown enormously from the beginning of the century, the Gunners claimed the right of the line on parades.
Their claim went unchallenged until on a parade in 1756. A dispute arose between the Officer Commanding the artillery and Commanding Officer the Queen's Dragoon Guards over who should take the right. As neither officer would yield, the matter was referred to the Commander-in-Chief, the Duke of Cumberland, who confirmed that the artillery '...take the right of all foot on all parades, and likewise of dragoons when dismounted.' The Royal Artillery still take the same position.
Motto’s & Coat of Arms:
The official Motto & Coat of Arms were not granted by Royalty until 1832. The official documents mention that the Motto’s and Coat of Arms were to replace what was being used at the time. At this time we cannot find what these items replaced.
1st Motto – “Ubique”, which means “Everywhere” (granted by King William IV 1832);
2nd motto - “Quo Fas et Gloria Ducunt”, which means “Where Right and Glory lead”.
The Coat of Arms - is the Royal Arms and Supporters over a gun with the mottoes Ubique and Quo Fas ET Gloria Ducunt on scrolls above and below the gun (granted July 1832 by His Majesty King William IV). The original gun on the Coat of Arms was a 9 pound smooth bore with a wooden Carriage. This was replaced by a metal carriage in the 1870’s. The one shown above is the latter one because no earlier versions can be found.
Royal Artillery Holidays:
One of the things that I have noticed in all the things that I have read is the fact that the British celebrated various holidays. These holidays were in addition to the normal Christmas or Thanksgiving holidays of today.
The military, as found in Knox’s journals, we find that they celebrated the Kings Birthday and coronation day. The Saint’s days were also celebrated by specific regiments. The Royal Artillery would celebrate St. Barbara’s Day. The list as known at this time is:
Royal Artillery Day – The Royal Artillery birthday May 26, 1716
St. Barbara’s Day - December 4th
King George II Birthday - November 10, 1683
King George II Coronation day - October 11, 1727
Uniforms and Accouterments Orders:
This material is aimed at complimenting the earlier work on the uniforms and equipment of the Royal Artillery Regiment. The following will add to and fill in the gaps. The section on tents though it meant to be the rules by which we will abide by as The Royal Artillery regiment, 2nd Battalion, Ord’s Company.
Necessities list:
4 good shirts, February19th, 1753 (Duncan’s page 147)
4 stocks, February 19th, 1753r (Duncan’s page 147)
2 pair of white and 1 pair of black spatter dashes, February 19th, 1753
(Duncan’s page 147)
2 pair of shoes, February 19, 1753 (Duncan’s page 147)
4 pair of white stockings, February 19th, 1753 (Duncan’s page 147)
1 Haversack each man, February 13, 1756 (Duncan’s page 149)
1 Knapsack each man, February 13, 1756 (Duncan’s page 149)
4 stocks, February 19th, 1753r (Duncan’s page 147)
2 pair of white and 1 pair of black spatter dashes, February 19th, 1753
(Duncan’s page 147)
2 pair of shoes, February 19, 1753 (Duncan’s page 147)
4 pair of white stockings, February 19th, 1753 (Duncan’s page 147)
1 Haversack each man, February 13, 1756 (Duncan’s page 149)
1 Knapsack each man, February 13, 1756 (Duncan’s page 149)
Tents:
The information on the actual tent used by the Royal Artillery Regiment is very limited. The only information that we have thus far is the 2 Ordnance lists that have been earlier mentioned. In 1747, on page 189, we see officers’ tents, Horsemen’s tents and Frenchmen’s tents. We also see that 13 Bells of arms and 2 laboratory tents are also mentioned. In 1754, page 339, we find that Officers tents, Horsemen’s tents and Foot tents are issued. Again we also find that 1 bell and 1 laboratory are also included.
We believe, based on the numbers of tents issued, the type of tent issued, the number of men being taken care of, the number of canteens and haversacks issued, that the Horsemen’s tents were for the sergeants and the French and Foot tents were for the rank and file.
In Duncan’s books, The History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, volume 1 to the Peace of 1783, and volume 2 to 1815, we see again that Horsemen’s tents and infantry soldier’s tents are issued to the artillery. In Volume II, page 111, we see that in 1800 the Artillery is being sent “common soldiers tents” and “Horsemen’s tents”. From reading the text on page 111, you get the sense that the Ordnance Board has a history of failing to take care of the camp equipment needs for the Artillery regiment.
The final factors in the determining the tents and sizes that we as Ord’s company are going to use, we look at Humphrey Bland’s and various paintings of military camps.
The information on the actual tent used by the Royal Artillery Regiment is very limited. The only information that we have thus far is the 2 Ordnance lists that have been earlier mentioned. In 1747, on page 189, we see officers’ tents, Horsemen’s tents and Frenchmen’s tents. We also see that 13 Bells of arms and 2 laboratory tents are also mentioned. In 1754, page 339, we find that Officers tents, Horsemen’s tents and Foot tents are issued. Again we also find that 1 bell and 1 laboratory are also included.
We believe, based on the numbers of tents issued, the type of tent issued, the number of men being taken care of, the number of canteens and haversacks issued, that the Horsemen’s tents were for the sergeants and the French and Foot tents were for the rank and file.
In Duncan’s books, The History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, volume 1 to the Peace of 1783, and volume 2 to 1815, we see again that Horsemen’s tents and infantry soldier’s tents are issued to the artillery. In Volume II, page 111, we see that in 1800 the Artillery is being sent “common soldiers tents” and “Horsemen’s tents”. From reading the text on page 111, you get the sense that the Ordnance Board has a history of failing to take care of the camp equipment needs for the Artillery regiment.
The final factors in the determining the tents and sizes that we as Ord’s company are going to use, we look at Humphrey Bland’s and various paintings of military camps.
2nd West Yorkshire Light Infantry Militia Camp circa 1780 by S.H. Grimm
Morier’s of the Lowlands, circa 1748
Perspective view of an encampment by Bowles & Carver circa 1780
From Bland’s, we see that the space allowed for private soldiers tents is 3 yards by 3 yards. The text refers that the width of 9 feet (3 yards) includes the intervals between tents. When we take this into consideration we have made the following tent decisions:
Sergeants Tents – wall tent 9 x 12 feet
Privates Tents – wedge tent 7 x 9 feet, maximum
Sergeants Tents – wall tent 9 x 12 feet
Privates Tents – wedge tent 7 x 9 feet, maximum
Sergeants Tent 1748, by Thomas Sandby
Board of Ordnance:
Now to totally confuse you, I will now introduce you to the Board of Ordnance. This board was responsible for the design, testing and production of armaments and munitions for the British Army. It was also responsible for the supply of munitions and armaments, and providing artillery trains for armies, and maintaining coastal fortresses.
The Board began in 1544 as the Office of Ordnance. It became the Board of Ordnance in 1597. This Board would consist of The Master-General of the Ordnance (head of the board), Lieutenant-General of the Ordnance, Surveyor-General of the Ordnance, Clerk of the Ordnance, Storekeeper of the Ordnance and the Clerk of the Deliveries of the Ordnance. In 1683 it became a civil Department of the State. The office and main arsenal were located in the White Tower of the Tower of London.
As mentioned earlier, this board was responsible for dealing with the needs of the Navy (until 1830) and the army. When the Board started, there was no standing army, so their primary duties were to supply guns, ammunition, stores and equipment to the King's Navy. In 1716, from their creation, The Royal Artillery and The Royal Engineers would answer directly to the Board of Ordnance instead of the War Office. This of course would change in 1855 by act of Parliament when it was incorporated into the War Office. Until 1751, all Commissions for the Artillery and Engineers came through the Board. After that they would be granted by the Sovereign.
Now to totally confuse you, I will now introduce you to the Board of Ordnance. This board was responsible for the design, testing and production of armaments and munitions for the British Army. It was also responsible for the supply of munitions and armaments, and providing artillery trains for armies, and maintaining coastal fortresses.
The Board began in 1544 as the Office of Ordnance. It became the Board of Ordnance in 1597. This Board would consist of The Master-General of the Ordnance (head of the board), Lieutenant-General of the Ordnance, Surveyor-General of the Ordnance, Clerk of the Ordnance, Storekeeper of the Ordnance and the Clerk of the Deliveries of the Ordnance. In 1683 it became a civil Department of the State. The office and main arsenal were located in the White Tower of the Tower of London.
As mentioned earlier, this board was responsible for dealing with the needs of the Navy (until 1830) and the army. When the Board started, there was no standing army, so their primary duties were to supply guns, ammunition, stores and equipment to the King's Navy. In 1716, from their creation, The Royal Artillery and The Royal Engineers would answer directly to the Board of Ordnance instead of the War Office. This of course would change in 1855 by act of Parliament when it was incorporated into the War Office. Until 1751, all Commissions for the Artillery and Engineers came through the Board. After that they would be granted by the Sovereign.
The seals of the Board of Ordnance
During the mid-eighteenth century the British government was alarmed by French excursions into western settlements of the American colonies in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. In 1754, the French and Indian War broke out in America. This led to the Seven Years War in Europe (1756-1763). The British prepared for war and started to replace depleted military stores, particularly because it was decided to try to regain land from the French in the American colonies. English ports such as Plymouth, Portsmouth, and Chatham were vital to British forces because they supplied, refitted, and inventoried military arms which were conveyed by ship to the West Indies, the American colonies, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Located at the prominent port on the west coast of England, the Plymouth Office of Ordnance managed military arms. The Citadel of Plymouth, with a magazine for gunpowder and an arsenal, was repaired along with other outer line defenses at the outset of the Seven Years War. When ships came to port at Plymouth, the Office of Ordnance issued orders for the artillery and small arms to be removed to the arsenal for inventory. Further orders conveyed that any necessary painting was to be done to maintain ships. Gunpowder was to be accounted for and then removed to the magazine while the ships were to be refitted.
To sum things up, the Royal Artillery as well the Royal Engineers would view The Board of Ordnance as their boss, not the British Army. In the family plan, the Army was a cousin and the Board was papa for the Royal Artillery.
Chain of Command:
The King or Queen: The War Office: The Army
The King or Queen: The Board of Ordnance: The Royal Artillery
Located at the prominent port on the west coast of England, the Plymouth Office of Ordnance managed military arms. The Citadel of Plymouth, with a magazine for gunpowder and an arsenal, was repaired along with other outer line defenses at the outset of the Seven Years War. When ships came to port at Plymouth, the Office of Ordnance issued orders for the artillery and small arms to be removed to the arsenal for inventory. Further orders conveyed that any necessary painting was to be done to maintain ships. Gunpowder was to be accounted for and then removed to the magazine while the ships were to be refitted.
To sum things up, the Royal Artillery as well the Royal Engineers would view The Board of Ordnance as their boss, not the British Army. In the family plan, the Army was a cousin and the Board was papa for the Royal Artillery.
Chain of Command:
The King or Queen: The War Office: The Army
The King or Queen: The Board of Ordnance: The Royal Artillery
The Meeting of the Board of Ordinance 1749, by Paul Sandby
Woolwich:
Now that we have established the chain of command, its time to show where home was. The place is called Woolwich. Woolwich is located in South East London. Since the Royal Artillery is what we have chosen, we must be aware of Woolwich and its importance. Woolwich would be the Headquarters for the Royal Artillery and the Engineers for well over 2 hundred and 90 years. It wasn’t until 2008 that they moved to Larkhill.
Woolrich, besides being the headquarters, was also where the Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich Common, The Royal Arsenal, The Royal Military Academy, Woolwich Dockyard and a military hospital were located.
The Royal Artillery Barracks has been the "home" of the Royal Artillery since 1716 with the creation of the first 2 companies. The buildings that housed these men have longed since disappeared. During 1782, the regiment moved to the current
Now that we have established the chain of command, its time to show where home was. The place is called Woolwich. Woolwich is located in South East London. Since the Royal Artillery is what we have chosen, we must be aware of Woolwich and its importance. Woolwich would be the Headquarters for the Royal Artillery and the Engineers for well over 2 hundred and 90 years. It wasn’t until 2008 that they moved to Larkhill.
Woolrich, besides being the headquarters, was also where the Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich Common, The Royal Arsenal, The Royal Military Academy, Woolwich Dockyard and a military hospital were located.
The Royal Artillery Barracks has been the "home" of the Royal Artillery since 1716 with the creation of the first 2 companies. The buildings that housed these men have longed since disappeared. During 1782, the regiment moved to the current
Royal Artillery Barracks of 1782
Royal Artillery Barracks (front parade) on Woolwich Common. It is famous for having the longest continuous building facade in England, as well as for having the largest parade square of any British barracks. The building was started in 1776 and really wasn’t finished until 1802. The Royal Artillery would vacate the building in July of 2007.
Woolwich Common is an area of military land located to the south of the town centre of Woolwich in South East London England. It is bounded on the south side by the Shooter's Hill Road, and on the east by Academy Road that the Royal Military Academy fronts. The nearby Royal Artillery Barracks is situated at the northern edge of the Common. The Common was used extensively by the Royal Artillery as a training area, as the Common is also close to the former gun foundries in the Royal Arsenal.
Woolwich Common is an area of military land located to the south of the town centre of Woolwich in South East London England. It is bounded on the south side by the Shooter's Hill Road, and on the east by Academy Road that the Royal Military Academy fronts. The nearby Royal Artillery Barracks is situated at the northern edge of the Common. The Common was used extensively by the Royal Artillery as a training area, as the Common is also close to the former gun foundries in the Royal Arsenal.
The Royal Military Academy, 1741
The Royal Military Academy was a British Army military academy for the training of commissioned officers of the Royal Artillery and Royal Engineers. Later it also trained officers of the Royal Corps of Signals and other technical corps. The Royal Military Academy was founded in 1741. It was intended to provide an education and produce “good officers of Artillery and perfect Engineers". The academy was commonly known as "The Shop" because its first building was a converted workshop of the Woolwich Arsenal. Notable Teachers at Woolwich included Frederick Augustus Abel, Peter Barlow, Samuel Hunter Christie, Adair Crawford, George Greenhill, Percy MacMahon, Paul Sandby and James Joseph Sylvester. The Corps of Royal Engineers, originally an all-officer corps, was not formally separated from the Royal Regiment of Artillery until 1787.
Artillery and engineer officers could not purchase commissions or promotions. All had to pass out from the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich, and then advanced by seniority. The Academy closed at the start of the Second World War in 1939. The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst replaced it in 1947. As of 2008, the Woolwich buildings are being converted and extended into 334 houses and apartments, including 150 for a housing association.
The Royal Arsenal, originally known as the Woolwich Warren, carried out armaments manufacture, ammunition proofing and explosives research for the British armed forces. It was sited on the south bank of the River Thames in Woolwich in south-east London, England. It was formally established as an Ordnance Storage Depot in 1671 on a 31 acre (125,000 m²) site, the Warren in Tower Place. An ammunition laboratory (the Royal Laboratory) was added in 1695, and a gun foundry (the Royal Brass Foundry) was established in 1717. By 1777 it had expanded to 104 acres (0.4 km²). This would also become home later to The Royal Carriage Department. The Royal Arsenal ceased to be a military establishment in 1994.
Artillery and engineer officers could not purchase commissions or promotions. All had to pass out from the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich, and then advanced by seniority. The Academy closed at the start of the Second World War in 1939. The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst replaced it in 1947. As of 2008, the Woolwich buildings are being converted and extended into 334 houses and apartments, including 150 for a housing association.
The Royal Arsenal, originally known as the Woolwich Warren, carried out armaments manufacture, ammunition proofing and explosives research for the British armed forces. It was sited on the south bank of the River Thames in Woolwich in south-east London, England. It was formally established as an Ordnance Storage Depot in 1671 on a 31 acre (125,000 m²) site, the Warren in Tower Place. An ammunition laboratory (the Royal Laboratory) was added in 1695, and a gun foundry (the Royal Brass Foundry) was established in 1717. By 1777 it had expanded to 104 acres (0.4 km²). This would also become home later to The Royal Carriage Department. The Royal Arsenal ceased to be a military establishment in 1994.
The gatehouse to the Royal Arsenal
Woolwich Dockyard was one of the principal Royal Dockyards during the Tudor and Stuart periods. Although it closed in the late 19th century for Royal Navy use as the Thames was by then too difficult to navigate for the naval vessels of the time.
The Military hospital based at Woolwich closed in the mid 1990s.
Regimental Museum
The Royal Artillery Museum has been open to the public in Woolwich since May 4, 1820, a record we believe to be unrivalled by any other military museum. In May 2001 the collection of artillery was moved to new premises within the gates of the Royal Arsenal and opened under the new name of Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum. The Museum had returned to the original home of the Regiment and indeed of the collection. The collection was founded in 1778 at the Royal Arsenal by Captain (later Lieutenant General Sir) William Congreve. Firepower, the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich tells the powerful and dramatic story of artillery, scientific discoveries made through warfare and human stories of courage and endeavor. The ‘ground shaking' Field of Fire audio-visual show puts you in the midst of battle as shells whiz overhead and guns roar. The Royal Arsenal was one of the most important centers in the world for munitions manufacture and until recently was a well kept secret from the public. Many of the guns and carriages on display were made in the Arsenal, making it a significant part of the local heritage. Together with a world class collection of artillery and associated weapons, uniforms, drawings, displays of diaries and medals bring together some 700 years of world artillery history.
The Gunpowder Mills:
Since we are involved in making the guns go boom, we know what is needed for such a thing. The powder that we would have used during the Seven Years War came from England. We as artillerists would have knowledge of these things.
At the outbreak of the Seven Years War, the British government was buying its supplies from the private sector. The powder was produced in water powdered mills, referred to as Gunpowder Mills. These private Mills were the Waltham Abbey mill, the Home Works and the Oare Works. Some of these mills would later become Royal Gunpowder Mills. There would eventually be 3 of these Royal Mills.
Home Works - in Kent, England the first factories were small, near the town, and alongside the stream, between the London to Dover road and the head of the creek. By the early 18th century these had become a single plant, later to be known as the Home Works. At this time the British government was buying its supplies from the private sector; but the quality was often poor, and in 1759 it decided it needed its own plant. Rather than build a new one, it nationalized the Home Works, upgrading all the machinery. It then became known as the Chart Gunpowder Mill, the oldest of its kind in the world.
Oare Works - was started by Huguenot asylum-seekers in the 1680s alongside another stream about 2 km west of Kent. This had its own access to the sea via Oare Creek and is why it became known as the Oare Works, though it was wholly in the parish of Davington. It became a leading supplier to the East India Company, and it could be argued that without its product English would not have become the language spoken in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Waltham Abbey - began as a fulling mill for cloth production; originally set up by the monks of the Abbey on the Millhead Stream, an engineered water course tapping the waters of the River Lea. Mills were adaptable, and in the early 17th century it was converted to an 'Oyle Mill', i.e. for producing vegetable oils. The oil mill was converted to gunpowder production in 1665, when it was acquired by Ralph Hudson. He used saltpeter made in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. The Hudson family sold out to William Walton at the end of the 17th century. The enterprise was successful under the Walton's tenure and the Mills expanded up the Millhead Stream as additional production facilities were added. The material progressing from one building to another as it passed through the various processes. The Waltham Abbey Mills were one of the first examples in the 18th century of an industrialized factory system, though not often recognized. In 1735 they were described by Thomas Fuller, a local historian, as 'the largest and compleatest works in Great Britain'. In October 1787, the Crown purchased the Mills from John Walton for £10,000.
Powder Crisis:
During the course of the Seven Years War, the supply of gunpowder was greatly limited due to the amount of time it took to be manufactured. In addition, unconventional war tactics were used for combat in colonial America, and a great deal of powder was expended against the French and Native Americans during the course of the war. The Royal Navy was ordered not to fire salutes in response to growing gunpowder shortages as early as the beginning of the war.
The Military hospital based at Woolwich closed in the mid 1990s.
Regimental Museum
The Royal Artillery Museum has been open to the public in Woolwich since May 4, 1820, a record we believe to be unrivalled by any other military museum. In May 2001 the collection of artillery was moved to new premises within the gates of the Royal Arsenal and opened under the new name of Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum. The Museum had returned to the original home of the Regiment and indeed of the collection. The collection was founded in 1778 at the Royal Arsenal by Captain (later Lieutenant General Sir) William Congreve. Firepower, the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich tells the powerful and dramatic story of artillery, scientific discoveries made through warfare and human stories of courage and endeavor. The ‘ground shaking' Field of Fire audio-visual show puts you in the midst of battle as shells whiz overhead and guns roar. The Royal Arsenal was one of the most important centers in the world for munitions manufacture and until recently was a well kept secret from the public. Many of the guns and carriages on display were made in the Arsenal, making it a significant part of the local heritage. Together with a world class collection of artillery and associated weapons, uniforms, drawings, displays of diaries and medals bring together some 700 years of world artillery history.
The Gunpowder Mills:
Since we are involved in making the guns go boom, we know what is needed for such a thing. The powder that we would have used during the Seven Years War came from England. We as artillerists would have knowledge of these things.
At the outbreak of the Seven Years War, the British government was buying its supplies from the private sector. The powder was produced in water powdered mills, referred to as Gunpowder Mills. These private Mills were the Waltham Abbey mill, the Home Works and the Oare Works. Some of these mills would later become Royal Gunpowder Mills. There would eventually be 3 of these Royal Mills.
Home Works - in Kent, England the first factories were small, near the town, and alongside the stream, between the London to Dover road and the head of the creek. By the early 18th century these had become a single plant, later to be known as the Home Works. At this time the British government was buying its supplies from the private sector; but the quality was often poor, and in 1759 it decided it needed its own plant. Rather than build a new one, it nationalized the Home Works, upgrading all the machinery. It then became known as the Chart Gunpowder Mill, the oldest of its kind in the world.
Oare Works - was started by Huguenot asylum-seekers in the 1680s alongside another stream about 2 km west of Kent. This had its own access to the sea via Oare Creek and is why it became known as the Oare Works, though it was wholly in the parish of Davington. It became a leading supplier to the East India Company, and it could be argued that without its product English would not have become the language spoken in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Waltham Abbey - began as a fulling mill for cloth production; originally set up by the monks of the Abbey on the Millhead Stream, an engineered water course tapping the waters of the River Lea. Mills were adaptable, and in the early 17th century it was converted to an 'Oyle Mill', i.e. for producing vegetable oils. The oil mill was converted to gunpowder production in 1665, when it was acquired by Ralph Hudson. He used saltpeter made in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. The Hudson family sold out to William Walton at the end of the 17th century. The enterprise was successful under the Walton's tenure and the Mills expanded up the Millhead Stream as additional production facilities were added. The material progressing from one building to another as it passed through the various processes. The Waltham Abbey Mills were one of the first examples in the 18th century of an industrialized factory system, though not often recognized. In 1735 they were described by Thomas Fuller, a local historian, as 'the largest and compleatest works in Great Britain'. In October 1787, the Crown purchased the Mills from John Walton for £10,000.
Powder Crisis:
During the course of the Seven Years War, the supply of gunpowder was greatly limited due to the amount of time it took to be manufactured. In addition, unconventional war tactics were used for combat in colonial America, and a great deal of powder was expended against the French and Native Americans during the course of the war. The Royal Navy was ordered not to fire salutes in response to growing gunpowder shortages as early as the beginning of the war.
Captain Macleod’s Co. The Plains of Abraham, by David Rowland
Captain Macbean’s Co. 1st Batt. RA Battle of Minden1759 by David Rowlands
Reading List:
The History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery vol. 1 to the Peace of 1783, vol. 2 to 1815 by Capt F Duncan (John Murray 1872/3)
History of the Dress of the Royal Regiment of Artillery by R J Macdonald (London 1899)
History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery by Gen Sir Martin Farndale (Royal Artillery Institution 1986)
Dress of the Royal Artillery by D A Campbell (London 1971)
A Treatise of Artillery 1757 by John Muller
A Treatise of Artillery 1780 by John Muller
Cannonade, by Fairfax Downey
A treatise of Artillery by M. Le Blonde
History of Uniforms of the British Army Volume 1 by Cecil C. P. Lawson
History of Uniforms of the British Army Volume 2 by Cecil C. P. Lawson
The Light 6-pdr Battalion Gun of 1776 by Adrian Caruana
The Exercise of the Big Guns by unknown
The More Complete Cannoneer by M.C. Switlik
Gunner at Large, The diary of James Wood R.A. 1746-1765 edited by Rex Whitworth
Round Shot and Rammers by Harold Petersen
Prepared by Brian E Wilson Sr.
3rd Edition October 25th , 2015
The History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery vol. 1 to the Peace of 1783, vol. 2 to 1815 by Capt F Duncan (John Murray 1872/3)
History of the Dress of the Royal Regiment of Artillery by R J Macdonald (London 1899)
History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery by Gen Sir Martin Farndale (Royal Artillery Institution 1986)
Dress of the Royal Artillery by D A Campbell (London 1971)
A Treatise of Artillery 1757 by John Muller
A Treatise of Artillery 1780 by John Muller
Cannonade, by Fairfax Downey
A treatise of Artillery by M. Le Blonde
History of Uniforms of the British Army Volume 1 by Cecil C. P. Lawson
History of Uniforms of the British Army Volume 2 by Cecil C. P. Lawson
The Light 6-pdr Battalion Gun of 1776 by Adrian Caruana
The Exercise of the Big Guns by unknown
The More Complete Cannoneer by M.C. Switlik
Gunner at Large, The diary of James Wood R.A. 1746-1765 edited by Rex Whitworth
Round Shot and Rammers by Harold Petersen
Prepared by Brian E Wilson Sr.
3rd Edition October 25th , 2015
