THE ROYAL DOCK YARD BATTALION BAND

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SHAKO PLATE Circa 1847-1857.

WM.. VERY LARGE BADGE.


The plate in white metal with four lug fittings on the reverse. (one missing)

The dockyard battalions were formed in 1847 when the development of steam-powered vessels provoked worries about the vulnerability of England to invasion. A Royal Commission recommended strengthening the defenses of the Royal Dockyards. Each yard formed a local protective force which was supplied with uniforms and arms. They practiced drill after working hours, each man being paid 6d on hour overtime. The corps was broken up in about 1857.

Code: 53881