Argylls

The displays in the Gallery include the 7^th and 8^th Battalions, 2^nd Stand, Queens and Regimental Colours 1961-1967 (centre and right).Colours are the ceremonial “flags” of military regiments. A stand of colours typically consists of a Queen’s Colour and a Regimental Colour. The Queen’s Colour has a design of the Union Flag with a gold circle in the centre, within which the Regiment’s name is embroidered. The Regimental Colour is in regimental colours with the Regiment’s insignia in the centre and the battle honours on both flanks. They measure 3'0" × 3'9" (914mm×1143mm).

The pipe banners are suspended around the walls of the Gallery; most are embroidered with an officer’s family crest and motto on one side, and the Regimental crest and tartan on the other.  When in use they were attached to the largest drone of the bagpipes. Pipers in the present Pipes and Drums band continue the tradition of carrying banners during parades, ceremonial occasions and regimental functions.

The Ramshead Snuff Mull dates from 1864.  The silver container, set between the horns, is split into different compartments so that it can hold various types of snuff.  It was passed around the Officers’ dining room table on its own castors, which are on the underside of the head.  The head was usually passed around at the end of a meal so those attending could enjoy a good pinch of snuff with their glass of port or Madeira.

The Victoria Cross (first left) was founded by Queen Victoria in 1856; it is Britain’s highest decoration awarded for bravery in the face of the enemy. Cast in the form of a Maltese Cross, it is made from the metal of cannons captured at Sevastopol during the Crimean War (Russia) c1854-1856.  The case gives the details of sixteen individuals from the Regiment who were awarded this rare medal.  Seven were won during the Indian Mutiny 1857-59, six during the First World War 1914-1918, two during the Second World War 1939-1945 and the last one during the Korean War 1950-1953.