In 1725, six independent companies of Highland soldiers were raised by the English to act as military police there. These groups earned the name “The Black Watch” from their dark tartan plaids and their work suppressing crime and violence in the night hours. In 1739, King George II formed these units into the 43rd Regiment of Foot, later becoming the 42nd regiment.
In 1758, the unit was given the title of the "Royal Highland Regiment" in recognition of their bravery at Fort Ticonderoga during the French and Indian War (7 Years War).
The Royal Highland Regiment was sent to America in 1776 to help combat the American Insurrection. They fought at Long Island and during the recapture of New York City in 1776. In 1777, they were at the battle of Brandywine Creek, and saw action at the battle of Monmouth Courthouse in 1778. In addition, they were present during several smaller actions from New York to Georgia, extending as far as the Caribbean. The Black Watch remained stationed in New York City until 1782.
Although some sources suggest that the regiment switched out it's kilts for more suitable dress for the North American climate, these Perry figures wear the full highland barb. Whar's a General to do?
Break out the "tartan paint", of course!
I can't believe a find myself painting tartan once again! I used the same mwthod as for my Napoleonic Highlanders.
I cheated a bit by only doing the dicing on the upper part of the stockings. The sculpting on the figures didn't really permit depiction of the diced band at the base of the bonnets, not that I was complaining!
Reenactors from a Michigan outfit representing the 42nd during the American War of Independence.
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