North Somerset Imperial Yeomanry

[jfl]

Hi, have had this button since finding under a door post in Somerset. I can find lots of references to the North Somerset Yeomanry, but none to when the 'Imperial' was first used or taken off. Can anyone give an estimate of its age?
Thanks

[Bill A]

Welcome to the Forum jfl. Your account is active and open for posts.

[Luke H]

Welcome.

It will be pre-1908 as after this date the Imperial Yeomanry became Territorial Yeomanry.

If you can post a picture I’m sure one of the button aficionados will be able to give you much more information.

[jfl]

Thanks for reply, I thought I had attached a photo, but will try again!

[Hoot]

It is at the very least 113 years old. The North Somerset Imperial Yeomanry became the North Somerset Yeomanry in 1908 when the "Imperial" part of the title was dropped by all the yeomanry regiments under the reforms of that year. Your button dates from 1902 to 1908 and was replaced by a button of the same design but bearing the post-1908 title. The "Imperial" buttons were probably issued and worn long after 1908 in order to use up old stocks.

[jfl]

Thanks, most informative.
As it was in Shepton Mallet I found it in an old cottage possibly one of the previous occupants was in the Yeomanry.
Will have a look on old census records.