Mervyn Mitton

jf - you are posing some difficult questions - I hope our headgear experts are 'scurrying' around looking for answers. I have a pre1900 history of British Regts. and will also have a look to see if they give any history. However, why I am really dropping a line is that Brian and myself have been very appreciative of your knowledge and for your posts. We have also had several good comments from members. However, we don't seem to know a lot about you - if it is not too private, perhaps you would share a little about your interests and collection ? Mervyn

Greg - I wish some of your photos would appear on the Photo Comp. - I'm sure they would do well. Also, the mushrooms (more likely Toadstools) could be very photogenic ? Please IM your address - I've got a copy of the Certificate to send - this shows the logo very well. Keep blogging - I enjoy your exploits. Mervyn

There is a question under our Guests Valuation Forum asking for help with an Imperial Russian airforce tunic. I would be grateful if one of your members could assist. Many thanks. Mervyn

Timo - the dissolution of Ireland happened in 1922 when Southern Ireland became Eire - and Northern Ireland remained part of Britain. This makes your instruction book interesting for several reasons. Firstly it refers to Northern Ireland - but was printed in Dublin. Secondly - the man's title is Garda - who were the independent Eire police. The title actually indicates it is a ref. book for both forces. Either way your Garda would have been one of the first appointed - look how low his number is ? I think you should keep-it - if you wish to sell one of our members - go back on this Forum - specifically collects old Irish police material and may be interested ? What was the other book ? Mervyn

Benny - thanks to Mike you have a date period. I checked a book on British Regt. and the only Hon.Colonel I could find for the Royal Scots was the Czar of Russia in 1894. He was appointed their Commander in Chief. This is obviously too late and with the title of the book I think it was just a flight of imagination. Nice print Stuart - they haven't made it over the top. Yours has only one dead Zulu - usually they have them in heaps !

OK - I've dallied enough - time to get on with part 4 ! I expect most of you are familiar with Blogs - I'm not, and I find it very strange typing these old memories into space - and having no real idea if anyone is reading them - or, more importantly - finding them of the slightest interest ? I don't expect comments, but , it would be nice if there was a counter. I would like to just say, that I have found a few Google pictures of things I am referring to - I will post where appropriate. I can't find my early photo albums - which is a pity. Please remember, that I am writing this from the viewpoint of a small child - there was history being made all around me that I was not aware of at that time. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LIFE ON THE HOME FRONT. So,what was the terrible surprise my Grandmother made for me ? A small uniform of an aircraftsman in the RAF. It had a tunic, trousers and the sidecap - and the trousers were held up with tape in a bow at the front. More of that later. All small boys in Britain were put into these type of uniform - it showed our support for the troops. Why the RAF - they were the ones fighting on a daily basis to defend Britain and were the heroes of the hour. This is what you musn't overlook - whilst it was the 'phony' war in Europe, England was being bombed on a daily basis. These were daylight raids and this was the Battle of Britain. Basically, they were aiming for the docks and industrial areas and we were not too badly affected - although many houses were hit when they missed - or, just dropped their bombs without caring. We were always kept close to home - and of course, at this time I was not at school. There were virtually no cars on the roads - mainly military vehicles. My Father had obtained a bicycle and it had a child's seat on the back - I remember sitting behind when he took me for a haircut. Aircraft overhead were common and I often saw aerial dog-fights - we would all cheer for ours and I remember seeing one shot-down - to a small boy that was a dose of reality. EMERGENCY RATIONS Britain was just so short of everything - every park had it's railings cut down to be melted. Didn't matter - no-one went out at night. I remember my Mother's Grandmother being ill and we had to catch a bus. Total darkness - torches had to have a cover with the tiniest of slits - buses had a tiny light inside and the headlamps also, had tiny slits. We made it, but my Mother stayed the night, I was too frightened to go back in the dark. I was only about 3 1/2. I was not to see street lamps or, cars with headlights until after VDAY in 1945. Aluminium was the sought after metal - we needed it for aircraft. People would come to the door asking for old saucepans - in the end my Mother had to say no, and hung onto what we had. Because we lived just outside of Central London no-one - as far as I remember - had air raid shelters. We had practise of going into the cupboard under the stairs - which the ARP Wardens said was safest (Air Raid Precautions). Apart from these incidents, life went on as normal for a small child. This was to shortly change. One point I would like to make - Britain had double summertime during the War - this meant that the clocks were put back 2 hours to take advantage of daylight. That meant it was light at 4 a.m. and in summer dark at 8p.m. However, in Winter it meant we were in total darkness by 2-3p.m. in the afternoon. SELF SUFFICIENCY Normal regulations were suspended to allow the keeping of poultry - also, people were encouraged to support the War Effort and grow their own vegetables. We had a small flock of about 8 or 9 Ducks - about a dozen hens , which of course only lay in the Summer. Forget eggs at other times - we are all spoilt today with battery chickens. A chicken was a luxury food that was not rationed and my parents had to learn how to kill and prepare one. How many people could do that today ? We would have one on very special occasions. We also kept rabbits. This was a problem - I grew too fond of them and played-up when one was to be killed. I was allowed to keep one white one - and he actually won a small cup - which I still have over 70 years later ! To preserve eggs over the winter my Father had buckets filled with Isinglass in the spare bedroom. They didn't taste like eggs we know, but that was how they were preserved. I have no idea what Isinglass was. He also obtained an incubator and at the right time would put eggs in to hatch and we raised them in the garden. With the two gardens opened-up - the fence was taken down between them - we had potatoes and all of the green and root vegs. I have read articles in later years that say this was the most nutritious food the British had eaten and we were stronger and fitter for the limited diet. You rarely saw obese people - not like today will all the fatty foods. We certainly needed to supplement our food rations. I think at this time an adult - on his ration book , got about three rashers of bacon a week. Butter was about 2 0zs. (64 gms.) eggs - 1 or 2 a week, Meat about 4 ozs a week (125gms.). Of course ration books were saved and therefore for meat , we could have a whole 3/4 of a lb between three people (375gms). My Grandmother was a great cook and remembered the meals from the 1st WW - when food had also been short. Eggs changed when America entered the War and started sending powdered eggs - we also got Spam - and I still like it. One of the most strange memories for me is that I remember a grocer's shop before supermarkets and processed food. Tins were on shelves at the back - a front food counter held the perishables - and biscuits were weighed from the tins they came-in. Oh, Yes ! You also queued for everything - meat, veggies, groceries, sweets. There was always a line outside - even early in the morning. And, when word went round that something that had been out of stock was back - then see the women move. When I was in a push chair I could go as well, but after that it was too long for me to stand. THE WAR CHANGES FOR CIVILIANS The Battle of Britain - despite horrendous for our young pilots, was won by the RAF - coming to a head when we shot down over 200 German planes in one day. Numbers are contested by both sides - but, it was something around that figure. The German Airforce could not sustain losses of that size and they changed tactics. Flying at night was difficult in those days - pilots were never sure exactly where they were - hence the importance of no lights showing. From our point of view it also made it very difficult for our planes to locate the enemy. London was ringed with heavy ack-ack guns - 3,7" and also lighter 40mm Bofors guns for lower flying aircraft - strangely, 14 years later in Australia I was to be an instructor in Sydney on these light anti -aircraft guns. Giant searchlights were also installed to support the ack-ack and when a beam caught a bomber all of the other lights closed-in as well. Then the guns opened-up. It was strange to see this small plane in the middle of the guns and puffs of smoke going off all around. From Sept.7th. 1940 to 10th May 1941 - 76 consecutive nights - London was bombed by consecutive waves of German bombers. The damage was unbelievable - the casualties horrific. There was no quarter given to Civilians and it was this time that Children were permanently evacuated throughout Britian - some never to return home until after 1945. We left to an Uncle in Watford for a few weeks, but both my Mother and I had a 'meeting' and decided we would go home. This was the period of the famous London Blitz. Many people left for outer areas at night - but we stayed put. Because - like many others , we had not installed a shelter, we were very vulnerable. The Germans were trying to hit the Pool of London - West India Docks - Deptford - Greenwich and Gravesend. However, in the dark they were very inaccurate and the houses and towns around were very badly hit. Several houses around us were hit and destroyed and many fell on a golf course which was at the end of our road. I clearly remember my Father carrying me out of the shelter one night - that is when we had one - and the whole skyline from left to right was a a red colour. This was the famous night when London was nearly destroyed - when St. Paul's Cathedral stood alone in the flames - the night that is usually credited with British people saying - Enough - we will not be destroyed ! This was in December of 1940 - I was 4 years old - and I will never forget. Next thrilling instalment on Wednesday - is there any one out there ? ST. PAUL'S AT IT'S GREATEST HOUR

Scott - I have taken action regarding this man's abusive letters - you should have told us. I take it that the 2nd. extra payment has now been sorted ? I will also notify the Chairman. Your collection is excellent and well presented - I hadn't realised it was so extensive. Well done. Mervyn

AMMAR. I have just seen your messages to our member 2xvetran. I have made the first three invisible and have left the two sensible ones between you. GMIC is not a debt collection agency and your letters are a mis-use of our Forum. Should you have a disagreement with a member over finances deal with him direct - we will only be involved - via our Chairman - if it is a deliberate case of non-payment. You are most welcome as a member - your knowledge will be appreciated. Please take this as an official warning. Mervyn Mitton

Cathey and Rex - an excellent example. I hadn't realised that the standardisation of Scottish swords was nearly 20 years later than in England. (Stuart is going to ask you about photos from Melbourne - for the Comp. and for an article on shows in Aust.) Mervyn

It's good to see this Blog section coming together nicely - and with a wide range of interests.

Captain Albert - I enjoyed this story - you can be proud . I agree with Nick - you should start your own Blog - this is exactly what we are looking for. Mervyn

My apologies to Irishgunner and to Frank, who I left off the list of regular bloggers , posted on the Lounge. I was hoping to persuade a few more of our Members to join-in and make regular posts. Everyone has something happening in their lives - let us be part of it ............... --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well, at the end of part 2 we had reached Dec. 1936. Neville Chamberlain was Prime Minister - King George 6th. was on the Throne - and Hitler was busy taking over bits of Europe that no-one was contesting. War was declared by Britain against the German 3rd. Reich on September 1st. 1939 - the ostensible cause being Germany's invasion of Poland. I was at that time 2 3/4 years of age - so, you will forgive me if my memories are not too solid. During this time Britain was not idle - our armed forces were being re-inforced - civil defense units were set-up and our police,ambulance and fire brigades were trained in possible future events management. The problem was that despite happenings in Europe no-one had any idea of the horrors that were to follow. I have clear memories of my Mother making blackout curtains - one of the laid down civil defense measures. They were hung inside of normal curtains and had to be fully light proof. I can also remember being taken to the local clinic - with the proximity of war, essentials started to be in short supply and youngsters under a certain age were entitled to free orange juice and cod liver oil - I think I also had another unpleasant one called malt extract. We used to go to the clinic every 2 weeks and I enjoyed seeing the other youngsters. During this period my Father was badly ill with a duodenal ulcer and spent nearly three months in hospital with an operation. I can remember being taken to see him regularly, either by my Mother or, Grandmother. My Mother did not work , as was normal in those days. Probably such an ulcer would not be so serious today - however, the drugs were not invented then to deal with it. He was left poorly for a long time and I don't think ever fully recovered. He was not allowed to be 'called-up' as it was termed then and died in 1974 at 64 years old. THE WAR STARTS I have very clear memories of the thousands of troops travelling down the Rochester Way - which we overlooked, going to Dover and embarkation to France. Part of the BEM - British Expeditionary Force. I was too young to go down the wooded slope to the road - but did on many other occasions. Tanks - on the backs of lorries would take ages to go past - they were slow. The soldiers often stopped and the men came-up to our row of houses for water - again, I clearly remember my Mother and Grandmother - and all the other ladies making sandwiches and tea - leaving everyone short but, this was important. Neither side seemed in a hurry to engage and there was the period known as the 'phony war'. Nearly our entire army was in France and Belgium and yet there was no real fighting. This was to change with the attacks on Belgium and Holland - and our army retreated towards Dunkirk (UK spelling). From May 26 to June 4 1940 our army was evacuated by the great armada of small boats, ferries and old warships. I was 3 1/2 now and understood a lot more. I can sense now the worry in my parents - everyone was listening to radios all the time and I can remember the men in the area having meetings - although many of the younger ones had gone to join-up. When the call for volunteers was given on the radio all of this groups went to Gravesend to try and help. I believe some did go as crew to France - Father was rejected as being not fit enough, This upset him for many years to come. CIVIL DEFENSE - IN THE TRUEST SENSE. So, this was it. We were in grave danger and invasion was a real possibility. With the frightening example of Rotterdam all adults knew civilians would not be spared. Evacuation for children out of London became a reality - my Mother refused to let me go - and we didn't think we were in danger as Blackheath was the other side of Greenwich and about 10 or 12 miles from Central London. How wrong we were ! Humans are a strange species - we can read signs better then most and knew the possibilities. However, life has to go on and even the Wall's ice cream man still used to visit once or, twice a week. The cycle had a big insulated container on the front and we all waited patiently for him - he wasa lovely old man - used to tell us about the 1 st WW. What had changed was that rationing had come into force - food, furniture, clothing - even cigarettes and drink - were now on a points system and we all had a ration book with the coupons for different periods. Even sweets had gone - I think they were what I missed most. Another thought - we had to go to the local school to collect gasmasks - it was compulsory to carry them at all times. I can remember my childs' version - the bit over the face was of mickey mouse. Oh yes ! There was one other piece of equipment I was given by my Grandmother - that will be in the next installment...... I will try for Sunday.

Thankyou Jonathan - I knew there was a reason we kept you ! Actually, seeing your design of the grip holder confirms that it is probably German. They always seem to vary. I don't think I've ever seen a plain officer's one and Robson doesn't make it clear. Anyway - thankyou for that info.. I hope you are well and giving them 'hell' on your sword forum ? Mervyn Steve - I wouldn't like to be at the receiving end of this sword - I think it has a much better balance then the 1853 and 1864 varients. The French always complain - if they didn't like it they should have surrendered - as they were supposed to do !

Two more great prints Benny - thankyou for adding. The question now - is who is the 2nd Dragoon Officer who is being caricatured. These were never without a purpose - who was their Colonel-in - chief at that time ? You don't give a date - I would think Crimea War or, later.

Steve - at this stage don't touch it. Looking at the clasps for the suspender I think I am seeing some signs of work. Someone else needs to give their opinion. Perhaps it is just cleaning over the years - however, we see a lot of Zulu War medals that were brooch mounted at one time. I'm not sure where you live - but why not have a day trip to London and call On Spink's and Dix, Noone and Webb? Mervyn

Robson's details. The sword weighs 2.2 lbs. (1 kilo) The scabbard was heavier.

From Robson's Book. The two patterns

This shows clearly the curve of the blade - allowing for a 'sweeping ' action from the horse. Note how the blade swells from about 10 inches from the point - and is double edged at that part.

Showing the reverse. The langet shows clearly

Hilt and grip. Not bad for 215 years old - the leather grip is still in excellent condition.

I bought this old sword on Monday - it is the O/R's 1796 pattern light cavalry sword. A standard set of patterns for British swords was only established in the 1780's - prior to that each arm of service had their own style - and this could extend to individual Regiments. Officer's swords for Light Cavalry had half blueing on the blade and an intricate design in gold . There are no markings at all on the sword - I can only put this down to wear and polishing over 215 years. However, at that time, many swords for the British Army were made in Germany and this could well be one of those. There were two patterns with slight differences and I have shown the photo ref. from Robson's British Swords - probably the main book on the subject. I have also shown the details of length and weight which he gives. The main difference between the two is the one on the left (as does mine ) has Langets on either side. These really go back to fencing when you tried to trap your opponent's sword - they still offer some protection to another sword sliding down your blade. I am hoping to find a correct scabbard - probably going to be difficult, but, let me know if you have any contacts. Mervyn

Everyday - one learns a little more. That explains a lot on the development of the different weapon styles. Thankyou Windu - and well done on your first year. Mervyn

Stuart - I intend to post some general old prints. From those days everything had a link to police or, armed forces. I certainly, will welcome ALL old prints , and I feel sure Brian will back me. Your entries are looking good on the Photo Comp. - I hope others are going to enter ?

Steve - if there is an obvious indentation from a rose, then you should get one to complete the set. I can't open the attachment you gave - I always think it is better if these are posted as a picture - more members respond. Have you posted on the Photo Comp. yet ? Mervyn

Well - that was a surprise - I got my two readers - so, I have no excuse not to continue ! SOME PERSONAL HISTORY I was born in early December of 1936 - I didn't know it, but I was to be an only child. Like many married couples my parent's feared the war and held off adding to the family. A pity, I would always have liked a brother or, sister. From both sides of the family there were military people. My Grandfather had been a senior NCO with the Leicestershire Regt. and was commissioned as a Captain/Quartermaster in 1914 with the Gloucestershire Regt.. He left with the rank of Major. My Father had three brothers - one a regular army officer - one a leading stockbroker - and the other one went to Singapore in 1935 and was missing from the family until 1956. A story for another time. My paternal Grandfather died in 1933 - paralysed - we believe from WW1. My Father being the youngest son had to stay at home to help my Grandmother look after him. The Mitton side of the family goes back to the 7th Century - we were invading Angles - later to be joined by the Saxons. The word Angle - a tribe who settled in Scandinavia from central Russia - gave the name England. My name means the junction of two rivers and that was where the tribe settled in Shropshire. The village of Mitton still exists, as does the Manor House and the local pub - The Myton and Mermaid. Phoentic spelling gives differences - but, we are all related - although I must say I have never visited - just too many generations apart. The above picture shows my Father as a 4 year old (born in 1910) - at the front. My Grandparents - the one on the left is Arthur - at the back is George - who went missing - and not in the picture is the eldest brother who had joined-up. My Grandmother was born in India in 1873 and I have recently discovered that her Father at that time was a Sergeant in the Essex Regt. - I have never found out his final rank. She often spoke to me in Hindustani and I still remember a few words. I have no idea what his final rank was. He was of Welsh descent and in deference to this I was named Mervyn. This is one of the oldest name in Welsh and means 'son of the sea' - I think I was badly named - I've nearly drowned three times in my life and am not at all fond of water - the exception being that it should be shallow and about the usual temp. of my bath ! I find Kenya ideal. When I was born, my Father was involved in horticulture and we lived next door to my Grandmother - a pair of the big 1930 's semi-detached houses that you could buy for about 500 pounds - $ 750. We lived just outside of Bexleyheath - this was originally a country market town and the nearest big centre was probably the City of Rochester. Actually, not a big place - however, it has a Cathedral and is therefore a City. A very quiet area with not that many houses - we were in a single row, that ran along the top of a steep wooded embankment - at the bottom of this was the Rochester Way. The embankment and the main road will feature as it was the main road to Dover - a main embarkation point for troops. This happened in1939/40 and again in 1944 with the re-invasion of France. So, you now know a little about me - where I lived , and my immediate family. Now - we get to the important bit - December 6th , 1936 - ME ! You will have to wait - with bated breath - for the next instalment .