Battalion Company

Known as Hatmen.
The 18th century infantry regiment was made up of many different types of men. The most common idea of the soldiers of this era was that they were lowly criminals 'scum of the earth', when in fact they more resembled the modern army of our day.

Men were for the most part recruited by roving recruiting parties made up of a loyal Sergeant and soldiers of better character. Setting up in town centers and beating the drum to entice bored young men, young gentlemen seeking adventure or out of work trades men in taking the 'Kings shilling'. In times of war local governing bodies would be required to supply a number of men to the Army. It was during this time that the less desirable were pressed into service.

The men were taken to Army Depots for their rudimentary training before joining their Regiments. Here to be schooled in how to be a soldier and become familiar with his new best friends his musket and bayonet.

The regiment was made up of companies sometimes as many as 10 or 11 per Battalion or Regiment. One company would be the Grenadier Company. This company was usually made up of the largest (physically) of the battalion. The bulk of the regiment was made up of the Battalion men, also known as 'hat men'.

The Hat men wore the tricornered hats which differentiated them from the Grenadiers who wore the more coveted Mitre caps. The Hat men provided the fire power of the regiment. The calculated volleys of a well trained regiment could devastate an enemy in a single volley or in the practiced platoon volleys. After the firings to lower their bayonets to drive the remaining enemy from the field.

The hat men are the most recognized of the era when people think of a "Redcoat" they think of the tricornered men marching in ranks. Come join an established Regiment at Seven Year War events to meet the French and their native allies as one large unit.

Join us in remembering the men who cut the roads and fought their way to a new Empire.

The Highest Bounty will be given For a few Heroes, now wanted To complete this gallant company.
Volunteers will be genteelly treated, and have many advantages pointed out to them, on application.
BRINGERS well satisfied

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