72nd Seaforth Highlanders of Canada - waughfamily.ca

INTRODUCTIONwrapped over both shoulders and firelock in rainy weather.At night the plaid served the purpose of a blanket. Thesewere called belted plaids, from being kept tight on the bodyby a belt, and worn on guards, reviews, and on all occasionswhen the men were in full dress. On the belt hung thepistols and dirk, when worn. In the barracks and when onduty, the little kilt or philabeg was worn. A blue bonnet,with borders of white, red and green, arranged in smallsquares to resemble the fess chequey in the arms of the different branches of the Stewart family, and a tuft of feathers,or sometimes a small black bearskin. Tartan hose with buckled shoes were worn and sporrans of badger skins. The armswere a musket, a bayonet, and a large basket-hilted broadsword.In the spring of 1756 the 42nd (Black Watch) HighlandRegiment embarked from Ireland for New York to takepart in the struggle for supremacy in North America, between France and Great Britain. The 42nd formed part ofAbercromby s division, which reached Halifax in 1757, inthe first expedition for Louisbourg, which was abandonedin consequence of the strength of the French forces there.In the year following they made the memorable charge atin New York State. The second battalion ofTiconderogathe 42nd was raised in 1758, and joined the first battalionin 1759, the combined regiment taking part under GeneralAmherst in the operations ending in the capture of Montreal and the termination of the war. After the revolutionary war, in which the 42nd bore & distinguished part, itserved in Nova Scotia, remaining there until 1789.Eraser s Highlanders So far as actual service is concerned, no Highland regiment has been so closely identifiedwith Canadian history as Fraser s Highlanders, the old 78thRegiment. This regiment, in company with Montgomery sHighlanders, landed in Halifax in June, 1757. At Louisbourg they bore themselves with distinction, won theconfidence and praise of General Wolfe, and took an imxxiil