Sword and scabbard, presented by soldiers of 42nd Regiment to their commanding officer Lieutenant-Colonel James Stirling

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This silver-gilt hilted sword and scabbard was presented in 1809 by the non-commissioned officers and men of the 42nd Regiment to their commanding officer Lieutenant-Colonel James Stirling.

The sword blade is inscribed 'A TESTIMONY OF ESTEEM & RESPECT FROM THE NON-COMD. OFFICERS AND PRIVATES OF THE ROYAL HIGHLANDERS TO LIEUT. CO JAS. STIRLING THEIR COMDG OFFICER.' The Gaelic inscriptions on the blade translate as 'let he who is worthy carry it' and 'children of the Gael, shoulder to shoulder'.

Until the 20th century, the treatment of soldiers owed much to the personal inclination of commanding officers. Stirling's strict but benevolent approach was indicated by his nickname in the regiment - 'Old Daddy'.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-180-000-229-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  M.1956.72
• Date: 1809
  
• Material: Sword
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Sword
  
• Subject: Weapons : edged weapons : swords
  
• Who: Lieutenant-Colonel James Stirling (Owner)
  Royal Highlanders (British land forces)
  
• Where:
• Event:
• Description: Royal Highlanders - Presentation sword given to Lieutenant-Colonel James Stirling by the N.C.O.'s and men of the regiment
  
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