Mervyn Mitton

People tend to keep cuttings of famous events - but, few last the test of time. These two turned-up in an old envelope on a store shelf and I thought I would post them for their historic information. Remember, all of this will be in books and on the internet - however, these cuttings are the news as reported to the public at the time. The one for the campaign against the Germans in South West Africa in 1915/16 is good in that it reports casualties. I hope they are legible ?

Hi - Simon. I would say South African - the helmets have a familiar look about them - having said that - Stuart or, Will , will now prove me wrong... The helmet badge does look a little like the SSB - but, not sure about the collars - which should be mins. of the main one. The background of hats and the trees in winter is interesting - could they have been in UK for a Coronation - perhaps King George 6th. in 1937 ? But, if so, why shorts ? Mervyn

Not likely - I need all of my fingers ! I really had forgotten the details on this piece and have only what was sent on the disc. I will ask the family to have a look next time they visit the flat. Best wishes.

Peter - that's a tragedy. Do you think it is a genuine theft - or, perhaps has a political background ?

Hi - welcome to our Forum. What are your interests ?

Peter - a few photos of the lock on my Lovell's have just come on a disc. Will post them here and see what you think. Hope all is well - haven't seen you post for a while ? Mervyn

Mike - a nice 'run' for an interesting period. Unfortunately, these bound volumes are so often broken-up to be sold separately. They are popular with families who like to know what happened the day someone was born. For me - it was King Edward V111 th. - I was born on the 6th and he promptly abdicated on the 7th. - perhaps I was the cause and not the 'slag' ? For historical reference I prefer the Graphic or. The Illustrated London News.

Just a short post - perhaps it will get some interesting threads going on the Canadian Artillery. The top one is a helmet plate for the ball topped blue helmet - QV Crown - perhaps a Territorial Unit. The other is a King's Crown Cap Badge.

When the Metropolitan Police first marched out from New Scotland Yard in 1829 , they were the forerunners in many different aspects of Policing. Today, we take the organisation and the discipline for granted - however, things were far different to begin with. Apart from the Bow Street Horse Patrol - who were a small unit - they were the first to wear a regular uniform. Also, until 1839, they were on their own. An Act of Parliament in that year allowed Boroughs and Towns to appoint a Watch Committee and set-up their own Forces - but, modelled on the Met.. This was known as the Permissive Act - it was not until 1856 that the Rural Police Act - known as the Obligitory Act - was passed that all areas had to establish a proper Force. The very rare frock coat I show here was for - probably - the Chief Constable of the West Riding Constabulary. This was set-up in October 1856 and had an establishment of 464. The first Chief Constable was a Colonel Cobbe and it is entirely possible that he was still the CC in 1862. I probably bought this frock coat some 40 years ago and I don't recall all of the details. However, the date was on a piece of paper I had put in a pocket - so, it must be based on some evidence. I also illustrate this uniform in my book - with this date. My note also says he was based in Wakefield. Frock coats were still being worn at that date - it was during the 1860's that there was a gradual change over to the German tunic. The amount of strapping is quite impressive and I have always liked the the little tassels at the back. The top hat is also from this period - County Forces had a somewhat smaller version then for the Metropolitan Police. He may have worn a helmet - being ex-military - however, for the purposes of this short article it fits.

Well done, Colin. Will be great to have some more Aussie collectors. Didn't you take any photos ?

Some more very unusual items - I particularly liked your display of orders and decorations. I see from the comment box that you are returning to Iraq on duty - so, we must expect lots more pieces for the collection ? Be careful and return safely. Mervyn

This is a standard pattern silver button for senior officers.

I have a number of historic police uniforms - and have just remembered them hanging in a wardrobe. I apologise for the size of this first post - since they 'blew-up' my computer with changes for the World Cup, I have just taken delivery of a new Samsung laptop - Windows 7 - which may be the latest advance, but, is more complicated then my old XP. I think they call it progress ! This first tunic was owned by the Chief Constable of Edinburgh - I think he was one from the 1930's. His two loops for a ribbon bar are in position.The quality of the bullion on the sleeves and collars is exceptional and would cost a fortune today. He would also have had a bullion brocade dress belt and his ceremonial sword. Pre-1940 the Scottish Forces were still wearing helmets - it is therefore, possible that he would have had a dress helmet. The one he is wearing is actually an English Supt's - also from the 1930's - it just makes the photo look better ! I will include some further pictures - and will show other old uniforms under their own threads. Please comment or, add.