Baton, carried by Sir Hugh Rose, Lord Strathnairn

This baton was carried by Sir Hugh Rose as a symbol of his rank of Field Marshal, the highest rank in the British Army. It dates from 1877.

On top of the crimson velvet-covered baton is a gold figure of St George slaying the Dragon. Beneath this figure is a gold circlet of roses, thistles and shamrocks. These represent the Union of England, Scotland and Ireland. Mounted upon the staff of the baton is a gold lion wearing a crown, the Royal Crest of England.

The baton has been a symbol of military command since classical times. British field marshals first carried this particular style of baton after the wars against Napoleonic France. The British took the idea from the French, who had modelled some elements their armies on those of ancient Rome.

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