Unknown Scottish unit

[Terra Nova]

For your learned consideration, a couple of photos circa 1916.

It is hoped that the uniform details and the partially visible cap badge may provide clues as to the unit. A few details, below, on the individual may suggest a local unit, if a Territorial.

A friend's great-grandfather, named James Brown, is the soldier on the left in picture 1. We are trying to figure out in what unit he served and then be able to plunge into his service records, if available. Being "James Brown", among the multitude with the same name, even basic Ancestry is a challenge. Thankfully a family Bible records that he was born 11 March 1884 in (likely) Riccarton, Ayrshire, UK. Died 28 February 1934 in Irvine, Ayrshire, UK.

If anyone can help put another piece in the puzzle, it would be most appreciated. Thank you!

best regards,

Tim

[Tinto]

Hi Tim,
Difficult to make out the badges. May be Royal Scots Regiment.
Cheers, John

[cbuehler]

I have tried, but just can't make out the badge nor the tartan enough to be sure.

CB

[Alan O]

The 4th, 5th and 6th Battalions Royal Scots were all in Egypt in 1916.

[cbuehler]

Originally Posted by Alan O

The 4th, 5th and 6th Battalions Royal Scots were all in Egypt in 1916.

I think this makes as much sense as anything.

CB

[Terra Nova]

Thank you, everyone, for weighing in. This does make sense and I know that the family will be very grateful for the lead.

with kindest regards,

Tim

[Toby Purcell]

The men in the kilts appear to be 9th (Highland) Battalion The Royal Scots (Territorial Force). They were the only Royal Scots (a lowland regiment) battalion to wear the kilt. The battalion favoured a particular pattern of leather sporran, which can also be seen. However, the 1/9th Battalion did not serve in Egypt, which suggests that perhaps the kilted men transferred to another battalion. It was not uncommon to do so. Also both 2/9th and 3/9th Battalions remained on the Home Establishment, but provided drafts of reinforcements for battalions in the field. The photo looks as if it was probably taken at Stobs Camp.

[Tinto]

Originally Posted by Toby Purcell

The men in the kilts appear to be 9th (Highland) Battalion The Royal Scots (Territorial Force). They were the only Royal Scots (a lowland regiment) battalion to wear the kilt. The battalion favoured a particular pattern of leather sporran, which can also be seen. However, the 1/9th Battalion did not serve in Egypt, which suggests that perhaps the kilted men transferred to another battalion. It was not uncommon to do so. Also both 2/9th and 3/9th Battalions remained on the Home Establishment, but provided drafts of reinforcements for battalions in the field. The photo looks as if it was probably taken at Stobs Camp.

Thanks for the information, Toby.
Here is a picture of a relative of mine, Benny Irvine of the "Dandy Ninth".
I recommend Neill Gilhooley's book, "A History of the 9th (Highlanders) Royal Scots, The Dandy Ninth".
Regards, John

[Toby Purcell]

Originally Posted by Tinto

Thanks for the information, Toby.
Here is a picture of a relative of mine, Benny Irvine of the "Dandy Ninth".
I recommend Neill Gilhooley's book, "A History of the 9th (Highlanders) Royal Scots, The Dandy Ninth".
Regards, John

I’m glad to help John. Thank you for posting your excellent photo and for the book recommendation.