Militia in the news

The militia were popular and frequently feature in contemporary local newspapers. In peacetime there are references to their exercises which often seem to have been occasions enjoyed by all classes. In 1774 The Leeds Intelligencer reported an inspection of a local militia regiment “when the men went thro’ their evolutions to the entire satisfaction of their officers as well as a great concourse of people assembled there.” Afterwards the commander laid on a tea tent for the ladies and entertainment in a local hostelry and a ball at the Assembly Rooms. Throughout their existence the militia were closely associated with social events; The Grantham Journal reported in 1870 on a ball given by the Royal South Lincoln Militia in the Guildhall giving a description of the decorations, dancing and food as well as providing a list of those attending.

Officers are frequently named but the men less so – unless they deserted, in which case there’s often a physical description and details of where they have been known to live or work previously. Robert Jones, who deserted from the Royal Flintshire Militia is described as: “Thirty years of age, five feet ten inches high, fresh complexion, grey eyes, dark brown hair, born in the town of Ruthin, by trade a labourer, has been at sea and has worked in Liverpool; he is commonly called Robin Parker.”

The militia would have been Britain’s first line of defence if France invaded but were only put to the test once on the UK mainland and once in Jersey. Cardiganshire Militia took part in the defeat of the amateurish French invasion of Fishguard in 1797, supporting local volunteer units, and are mentioned in contemporary papers.

Local newspapers can be accessed via Findmypast, the British Newspaper Archive and other subscription services but these can sometimes be accessed free via your local library.