2-913-670 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The 5th (French) Regiment of the Line passing through the Porte des Dunes, on their way to the Camp of Boulogne, 1854. Crimean War: soldiers in northern France. '...English residents and visitors at this favourite watering-place have been much interested of late in the formation of the French Camp in the neighbourhood. The large numbers of soldiers that are constantly marching in...make the usually quiet town a continuous scene of bustle and excitement...the picturesque costumes of the French soldiers are admirably contrasted with the neat appearance of the English visitors. Nearly all the regiments forming the camp pass through this gate. The long marches, burning sun, and dusty roads, all contribute to the peculiar character of the French troops: their large moustaches and thick beards are covered with dust, as well as their clothes..'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854.