Do you think all drummers were drummer boys? Find out about the Drums' historical counterparts in the "Who Were They?" section.

Uniform

The Drums depict the Corps of Drums of a typical British line infantry regiment stationed in Canada at the outbreak of war against the United States in 1812.  The group does not portray a specific historical regiment, but instead seeks to commemorate the services of all British field musicians during the war.  Our uniform therefore represents a generic impression of what was worn during the “early war” period (summer 1812 to spring 1813) as Canada transitioned from a peacetime garrison to the theatre of an active conflict.

The War of 1812 occurred during a period of transition for the British Army’s dress and equipment. While the basic uniform was outlined in 1802, the Napoleonic Wars in Europe prompted several changes in the infantry’s headdress and clothing by 1812, though these were sometimes slow to be implemented due to distance and ‘wear out’ periods.  At the same time, supply problems in North America often led to the abandonment of the inefficient system of regimental procurement in favour of mass-issues of generic garments.  The result was that the clothing of the British Army in Canada was in a constant state of evolution throughout the war.

Follow the links below to learn more about the Drums’ uniform and the British Army’s clothing and equipment.

Uniform and Kit


Jacket



Orders of Dress

- 1812 -
- 1814 -


Other Uniforms

 
 

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