Royal Winnipeg Rifles printed title questions...

[ledfut]

Does anyone know when the Royal Winnipeg Rifles started wearing the printed canvas shoulder titles? I know these were available later in the war, but I don't know that I have ever seen a wartime picture of one of the Black Devils with the printed titles. How common would these have been in relation to the embroidered titles? What type of title would most of the troops have worn on D-Day, for example?

On a more general note - it seems to me that printed titles (for most Canadian regiments) are much more sought after by collectors. Is there a specific reason for this? Is it because they didn't hold up as well and are harder to find in nice condition?

[Bill A]

Second question first. The printed pattern titles are Second World War. For collectors, these are definitely that vintage.
First question. The RWR's did not get their printed titles until after the invasion. They were wearing embroiderd titles on D-Day.

[ledfut]

Originally Posted by Bill A

Second question first. The printed pattern titles are Second World War. For collectors, these are definitely that vintage.
First question. The RWR's did not get their printed titles until after the invasion. They were wearing embroiderd titles on D-Day.

Thanks for the reply, Bill. Just trying to learn a bit more about these titles (cloth and canvas) and also figure out why they seem to be so elusive. A second world war RWR title is the only cloth title missing from my Manitoba regiment insignia collection. I have been trying to locate one for some time and am growing frustrated (perhaps one of you guys with multiple versions might be persuaded to part with just one...)

Any leads on a single wartime Royal Winnipeg Rifles cloth shoulder title would be greatly appreciated...

[Bill A]

Be careful. The RWR Second World War title is oyster (silver/white) on black, but there were also that colour titles issued post war. The unit later switched to a white on dark green. Check out the militaria shows and handle as many titles as you can. It will give you a feel for the correct titles.

[ledfut]

Originally Posted by Bill A

Be careful. The RWR Second World War title is oyster (silver/white) on black, but there were also that colour titles issued post war. The unit later switched to a white on dark green. Check out the militaria shows and handle as many titles as you can. It will give you a feel for the correct titles.

Unfortunately, militaria shows are few and far between in my neck of the woods. If I can't find what I am looking for at Marway, then I pretty much have to rely on the internet to locate items...

[James S]

Here is an example of an embroidered title worn by the regiment on D-Day. I've also included a picture of my current collection of Royal Winnipeg Rifles' insignia. I hope the pictures can be helpful as a reference. I do see RWRs' titles come up on eBay from time to time.

[ledfut]

I have not seen this style before - with "Royal Winnipeg Rifles OF Canada" embroidered on it. What can you guys tell me about this style? WW2 era? What years would this type of shoulder title have been worn?

[William Brooks]

you should post the back. If there is glue smeared on the back it should be WW2.

[Bill A]

Hi Ledfut, the title you have illustrated is a variety of one type of title dating to the Second World War. These were not officially authorized, and may have been private purchase. Dating it is difficult, but the R Wpg Rif wore the triangular "Little Black Devil" patch until the spring of 1943. That would suggest that this one dates from 1943 until the end of the war.

[William Brooks]

I believe there was also a painted version too.

[Bill A]

Hello William. Welcome to the Forum.
By painted, do you mean the pattern that is flocked or sprayed on felt?

[William Brooks]

They are painted white letters on black material similar to printed titles. I have a set. I will post pictures this weekend. This is similar to other painted titles that I believe are English made.

[William Brooks]

This is the title I was referring to.

[Bill A]

Hi William, That third title is an interesting example. From your image, it appears to be done on a canvas backing? What does the back of the title look like?

[William Brooks]

Hi,

The backing is black like a canvas one. Should I post a picture?