The 1st Volunteer Battalion began life in 1859 but took several months to reach battalion strength. By 1861 it was called the First Administrative Battalion and was based at Fakenham, then in July 1862 it was based at Norwich. By the end of the century there were 4 Volunteer Battalions. In 1908 there was a reorganisation which meant that the militia were being phased out. The 3rd and 4th Battalions of the Norfolk Regiment which had been the militia battalions were reduced to one which became the 3rd Special Reserve Battalion 1st Norfolk Militia. The four Volunteer battalions were reduced to two which became the 4th and 5th Territorial Battalions, the beginning of the TA. The 6th Cyclist Battalion was then added on which was also part of the Territorial Army.
This red drum-major’s sash has the crown and cypher of Queen Victoria so was worn before the battalion adopted the same scarlet uniform as the regular battalions. Before 1877 the Norfolk Volunteers wore a grey uniform. This would have required a colourful sash to relieve the drab look of the drums and band. The two embroidered badges are the figure of Britannia and the representation of Norwich Castle, the badge of the Militia and Volunteers.
Regimental Details | Band and Drummers
