Object: Volunteers Badge

Date: 19th Century

Description: Large brass badge inscribed ‘Port Bannatyne Volunteers’ with a crown and thistle engraved in the middle. In May 1803 war was declared between Britain and France. Four companies were raised within the county of Bute – Rothesay, Arran, Kingarth and Port Bannatyne. Capt. Jamieson was in command of the Port Bannatyne company. In 1804 all four companies were placed under the command of Lieutenant-Commander John Campbell.

Origin: The selection of uniform was the choice of local officers and the government allowed £1 per man towards the cost of a uniform which included this oval shaped badge.