Malta Fencible Artillery, Gunner 1815

Head Dress,

The shako worn at this period by the Malta Artillery was the second pattern stove pipe introduced in October 1806. The shako had a black felt body and a black lacquered top. It was 7 in. high, the diameter of the black lacquered leather top being 61/2 in. The peak was also of black lacquered leather. The badge appears to have been a plate, surmounted by a crown and possibly the words 'Malta Fencible Artillery' below the Royal cipher, and a cannon and cannonballs as on the plates of the Royal Artillery and Royal Marine Artillery. A white plume was worn in the top front of the shako.

 

 

Uniform,

The coat was blue with red collar, cuffs and turnbacks. The skirts were lined in red. The coat was double-breasted and, as shown, had brass buttons in 2 rows up the front. The collar and cuffs were plain, although the collar appears to have had a tape-button loop and button, or a small grenade, at each side. The backs of the skirts had pocket flaps and buttons on both sides, and the skirts were held back with a grenade motif. The epaulettes were yellow worsted cords. The strap and crescent were of red cloth. The breeches were white cloth, buttoned at the knee, and were worn with black gaiters, buttoned on the outside and reaching to the knee.
 

 

Accoutrements.

A white buff crossbelt was worn over the right shoulder with a brass rectangular regimental-pattern belt plate. This held a small hanger on the left hip in a frog. In full marching order 2 crossbelts were worn with bayonet and ammunition pouch.

 

To 1828 >