COLOURS

The Ensign carried the regimental Colour; approx 6sq. ft of painted silk fixed to a wooden staff. The colour was used to distinguish regiments on the field, as a rallying point for soldiers and as a signalling device between regiments and armies. The Colour was therefore a very important part of the regiment, and the Ensign a vital person.

The Ensign wears clothes which help him to stand out on the field, this being the days before camouflage and would have to provide his own clothing and equipment for war, dressing as befits his status, rank and purse. A red sash of taffeta or silk would show his rank as a Royalist Officer. Due to his visibility and vital role within the regiment, the Ensign would have been a target for enemy musketeers and pikemen. The capture of an enemies colour was a very symbolic victory and devastating for the regiment.

Each company within the regiment had its own distinctive flag, or ‘colour’, carried by a junior officer with the rank of Ensign and was privileged to do so. The standards (flags) were important as a rallying point for each regiment during battle. Both sides had very similar uniforms and it was difficult to tell which side is which. Each regiment formed up, and reformed on its Ensign. If the standard was lost the regiment had to capture another standard before being allowed to fly another. The Ensign fiercely protects his standard and would defend it with his life rather than face the dishonour of losing it.

Our regimental standards are based on the “Gyronny” segmented square system and the one shown is the first Captains Colour which is a very well known Civil War colour. During battle re-enactments the colours are flourished in front of the assembled regiment prior to combat to advertise our position on the field and to taunt the enemy. The Ensign has a very responsible position as the colours are highly valued and always respected. It is also a chance to show off in front a big crowd.