Montgomeryshire Yeomanry Helmet Plate

[41st]

I’ve long been intrigued with the Montgomeryshire Imperial Yeomanry version of this plate as shown in Bryn Owen’s book, Montgomeryshire Regiments of Militia, Volunteers & Yeomanry Cavalry, as shown in the photo 1.
I have never seen one like this but having recently bought a rather beaten up helmet with the later MYC plate as shown in photo 2 I now know the reason why it was shown like this. The small upright band shown at the top of the star is in fact part of the helmet decoration that was soldered onto the back of the star plate as it has no fixings of its own to hold it in place, as shown in photos 3 & 4. The top section being secured under the spike base at the top. Photo 5 shows the comparison between the plate that has come off the helmet & another I have which has never been fitted to a helmet from the look of it as it is not curved to shape.
Photo 6 shows the plate back in place after I’ve taken out the major dents and cleaned it all. This is not a finished project as it is missing a liner, chin chain and other minor bits and bobs. The plume is a temporary addition as it is from a modern Life Guards helmet.

[Wmr-RHB]

Looks already splendid as it is now.

[Frank Kelley]

Those Welsh Dragons again, very nice indeed and really lovely to see.

Originally Posted by 41st

I’ve long been intrigued with the Montgomeryshire Imperial Yeomanry version of this plate as shown in Bryn Owen’s book, Montgomeryshire Regiments of Militia, Volunteers & Yeomanry Cavalry, as shown in the photo 1.
I have never seen one like this but having recently bought a rather beaten up helmet with the later MYC plate as shown in photo 2 I now know the reason why it was shown like this. The small upright band shown at the top of the star is in fact part of the helmet decoration that was soldered onto the back of the star plate as it has no fixings of its own to hold it in place, as shown in photos 3 & 4. The top section being secured under the spike base at the top. Photo 5 shows the comparison between the plate that has come off the helmet & another I have which has never been fitted to a helmet from the look of it as it is not curved to shape.
Photo 6 shows the plate back in place after I’ve taken out the major dents and cleaned it all. This is not a finished project as it is missing a liner, chin chain and other minor bits and bobs. The plume is a temporary addition as it is from a modern Life Guards helmet.

[41st]

Griffon in this case Frank, but I rather like it too.

[41st]

Thanks Henk, but a long way to go yet. Rather hoping that Ciney may be on in October but not looking good with the way Europe is looking atm.
Hwyl,
Kevin

[Frank Kelley]

I would never have noted that if you had not said, interestingly it is described as a Welsh Dragon in Ki&K, but, they are certainly lovely things.

Originally Posted by 41st

Griffon in this case Frank, but I rather like it too.

[49lassiepen]

Kevin well done a super item as it is it has cleaned up well .I suspect the ''dirty'' brigade will not agree

[41st]

Another restoration project of what is a scarce survivor to this unit. From what I can ascertain a brown leather valise bag mounted behind the saddle was first introduced in the 1840s and was discontinued circa 1896. This example was in a very dirty, dry and paint splattered condition when I acquired it. After cleaning and oiling it appears to be black as opposed to brown, which would fit with the colour of the horse fittings used in the later part of the 19th C. The roundels appeared to be bronze but turned out to be nickel plated brass.
Some before and after photos for those who may be interested.

[Luke H]

Very nice Kevin. You’ve done an amazing job on it.

[Bantam]

Nice one Kevin keep up the good work.
Bantam.

[BROOKIES]

Helmet would be better with the chin strap !!

Just thought would add image of our HP (front and back) and a horse furniture badge (imaged with collar/s badge to show size).

Ta

Jonathan

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[41st]

Jonathan,
What piece of kit do you think that larger dragon was worn on?
Hwyl
Kevin

[Fatherofthree]

Originally Posted by 41st

Another restoration project of what is a scarce survivor to this unit. From what I can ascertain a brown leather valise bag mounted behind the saddle was first introduced in the 1840s and was discontinued circa 1896. This example was in a very dirty, dry and paint splattered condition when I acquired it. After cleaning and oiling it appears to be black as opposed to brown, which would fit with the colour of the horse fittings used in the later part of the 19th C. The roundels appeared to be bronze but turned out to be nickel plated brass.
Some before and after photos for those who may be interested.

Great piece of work on a rare historic item, you must have derived great satisfaction from restoring it.

Regards.

Brian

[GriffMJ]

...have the valise badges got x3 loops in them Kevin? Great to see an original in the flesh. Can you post the dimensions for me? I wouldn't mind making copy for myself. Is it lined on the inside?

[41st]

Hi Griff,
Approx 40mm dia & no loops, rather three sets of double wires. I’ll see if I can get a mould for you.