'Wanted - Brisk lads, light and straight,and by no means gummy: not under 5 feet 5 1/2 inches in height. Liberal bounty, good uniforms, generous pay! Step lively lads and come in whilst there is time.'
or
'A recruit should be at least 5 ft 6 inches tall (or likely to grow to it), sound in mind and limb, and be prepared to swear before a magistrate that he is indeed a Protestant and not afflicted by anything else which might debar him from serving.'
These are examples of recruiting posters of the day, however our requirements are a little easier.
All we ask is that you are interested in the period and preferably (but not essential) British Military History, are prepared to enjoy yourselves, occasionally get wet and cold, or sweaty and sunburnt and be prepared to 'muck in.'
Our membership is open to everyone regardless of race, sex or disability. We accept men and women of all ages and marital status, children are also welcome but we do require that children under the age of sixteen have parental permission to join, and children under 14 are only allowed to join with an adult family member.
TAKING THE QUEEN'S SHILLING
This term is said to have originated from the practice of PRESSGANGING, when the Regiments sent out Sergeants, soldiers and drummers into surrounding towns and villages to recruit. Often unscrupulous Tavern Owners provided these recruits from their customers who slept off the effects of alcohol, receiving a bounty for each man. When the unfortunate man awoke he would find a shilling in his possession to prove he had willingly taken her Majesty's money and accepted enlistment.
In reality, the process was a lengthy one, the first contact being a member of the recruiting party. After haggling over the price of the bounty and a bargain being struck, the recruit received his shilling. This was usually converted into alcohol at the earliest opportunity. Then the recruit visited the Surgeon for a medical before visiting a Magistrate who attested the recruit by administering the oath. The recruit was now subject to Military Law under the Mutiny Act. Then the recruit was marched before the Commanding Officer, when he was accepted or rejected. If the Regiment was overseas this was performed by Depot staff. If the recruit was suitable he would be sent for training and exercise before joining the Regiment.
ENLIST
If you would like to join the 80th Regiment of Foot - Staffordshire Volunteers Please fill out the following details and send them together with the appropriate fee to
The Recruitment Officer
80th Regiment of Foot - Staffordshire Volunteers
16a High Rookery
Kidsgrove
Stoke-on-Trent
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Name
House name or number
Street
Town
County
Postcode
Tel number
Mobile Number
Date of Birth (if under 16)
Signature
Signature of guardian if under 16
Interests
Any skills that may be of interest to us.
The Current membership fee is: ADULT £15 per year or part of.
CHILD £7.50 (under 16) per year or part of.
DO NOT SEND CASH (unless by Registered Post)
Please make all cheques payable to 'The 80th Regiment'
