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Button, Bihar Light Horse, 1884-1947 (metal)
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Button, Bihar Light Horse, 1884-1947 (metal)
5927532 Button, Bihar Light Horse, 1884-1947 (metal) by British School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Button, Bihar Light Horse, 1884-1947.
White metal button with a boar design.
After the Indian Mutiny of 1857 concerns about future unrest and the threat to the European minority in Bihar led to The auxiiary formation of an unofficial corps. It was raised as a defence force by planters of the Tirhoot and Chapra districts in Bihar, India. The Soubah Behar Mounted Rifles Volunteer Corps was formerly established in 1862.
Pig-sticking, the hunting of wild boar with the lance, was a popular recreation for Indian Army cavalry units and may explain the adoption of the boar as the Bihar Light Horses emblem. The units commander petitioned the Secretary to the Government of India for the unit to be allowed to carry lances but this request was declined and the men were issued with carbines.
The auxiiary formation grew in size and reputation. In December 1883 the men of the Bihar Light Horse were invited to Calcutta to participate in exercises and drills. On 4 January 1884 the unit took part in the Proclamation Day proceedings where they were commended for their appearance by General Wilkinson, Commanding in Calcutta.
From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 25059060
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Army Organisation Auxiliary Boar Calcutta City Of Calcutta Inida
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases a rare artifact from the late 19th century - a metal button belonging to the Bihar Light Horse. The button, now housed in the National Army Museum in London, features an intricate design of a boar. The Bihar Light Horse was formed as an unofficial defense force by planters in Bihar, India after concerns arose following the Indian Mutiny of 1857. Originally known as the Soubah Behar Mounted Rifles Volunteer Corps, it gained popularity and reputation over time. Interestingly, pig-sticking - the hunting of wild boars with lances - was a favored pastime for cavalry units in the Indian Army. This may explain why the emblem of this unit became a boar. In December 1883, members of the Bihar Light Horse were invited to Calcutta for exercises and drills. On January 4th, 1884, they participated in Proclamation Day proceedings where their appearance received commendation from General Wilkinson. This print is part of Field Marshal Sir John Chapple's Indian Army Collection and provides us with a glimpse into both military history and recreational activities during that era. Through this image captured by Bridgeman Images for Fine Art Finder, we are reminded of how objects like this button can tell stories about forgotten regiments and shed light on lesser-known aspects of colonial India's past.
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