3-003-702 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Presentation of the prizes by the Duke of Cambridge in front of the grand stand, 1861. National Rifle Match on Wimbledon Common, London. 'Shortly after three the Royal ensign was raised, the band of the Hon. Artillery Company played a few strains of "God Save the Queen," and the Duke of Cambridge stepped upon the dais. Ranged in a long line...were the successful competitors, who awaited their prizes. The diversity of figure and dress gave some force to the idea that our national marksmen have gathered from far and wide. Here was an active Lancashire lad in the serviceable grey uniform of his corps; there an aristocratic young man in faultless morning costume; here an Australian rifleman with his plain felt helmet; here a kilted Highlander with his claymore girded on his side, and there an elegant-looking officer in the scarlet regimentals of a volunteer corps...To each and all, in proportion to their supposed desert, a tribute of applause was given by the lookers-on...His Royal Highness, in speaking generally of the success attending the second annual assembly of the association, observed that the competition throughout had been wonderfully close, and that many who had not won prizes had nevertheless proved themselves to be excellent shots'. From "Illustrated London News", 1861.