2-913-844 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

New Cavalry Corps. - the Mounted Staff, 1854. British military uniforms during the Crimean War. '...new Corps...destined for special service in the East...They are designated the Mounted Staff Corps, and consist of men selected for their intelligence and good conduct from the Irish Police and Constabulary Force principally, and also from the Metropolitan Police...The uniform is a handsome scarlet Hungarian tunic, the front sleeves and collar richly braided, Royal blue facings (the officers' tunics richly and tastefully laced); blue trousers, with two scarlet stripes, and leather strappings and cuffings; handsome helmet, mounted with brass; a poncho of grey cloth, made to answer as a blanket and great-coat; a sling belt, with cavalry sword; pouch-belt, with pouch for Colt's revolving pistol. The makers of this new uniform are Messrs. Isaac Campbell and Co., of St. Jame's-street.' From "Illustrated London News", 1854.