This 1886 (makers and inspection mark) dated, 6 panel Colonial pattern Helmet. Any surviving FS helmets are rare, but research of the individual really brought this helmet and its history to life, with surprising results on the life of a Sudan Veteran.

Stamps showing the manufacture date of April 1886 and the issue date of November 1888

The helmet was issued to No 362, 1st Battalion (Princess of Wales’ Own) Yorkshire Regiment in November 1888. No 362 turns out to be Private William Welch. William was born in Lancaster and was an “Engine Driver” before enlisting into the “2nd Yorks” on 17th May 1882, in Liverpool. He was 5ft 5”, with a 35 inch chest, he was 20 years and 5 months old. From December 1882 to July 1884, he was stationed in Nova-Scotia, then Malta from February 1884 to August 1884, he is then listed as being in Egypt from August 1884 to January 1888.

He was then “Present with the Expeditionary Force at the Battle of Ginnis” Egypt, December 1885, one of the last battles that the British Army fought in Scarlet. William was entitled to the Egypt Medal and Khedive’s Star.

William spent “3 Years, 181 days” in Egypt before heading to Cyprus with the 1st Btn Yorkshire regiment in February 1888. It was in Cyprus, in November 1888, that he was issued this very helmet.

He then spent another 57 days in Egypt before returning “home” in September 1889. He completed his 7 years with the Colours in October 1889 and his 5 on the Reserve in May 1894.

Note the opposing broad arrow stamps indicating that the helmet was returned to stores.

The fact it was issued in Cyprus probably explains the form of “Mediterranean Order” of no Puggaree (pre 1884) and the “Home Service Helmet” furniture. The cork spacing between the headband and the shell is also an indicator of its being “Mediterranean Order”.

Whilst I am sure, in 130 years of existence, the helmet furniture might have been changed, (it came with a dodgy RA helmet plate) I am 100% confident in the original markings on the inside, if only it could talk. Now to find his medals…

Toby Brayley

August 2020