26th (Cameronian) Regiment of Foot

The 26th (Cameronian) Regiment of Foot was an infantry regiment of the British Army, raised in 1689. It underwent several changes in designation throughout its history, reflecting various reorganizations and reforms within the British military.

Early History and Formation:

Initially raised in 1689 by the Earl of Angus in the aftermath of the Glorious Revolution, the regiment was originally known as the Earl of Angus's Regiment. It was formed primarily from members of the Cameronian sect, a strict Presbyterian group in Scotland, hence the later association with the "Cameronian" name. The regiment was intended to defend the Protestant settlement and the new monarchy of William and Mary.

Service and Campaigns:

The 26th served in numerous conflicts and locations across the globe. Early service included engagements during the Williamite War in Ireland, including the pivotal Battle of the Boyne in 1690 and the Siege of Limerick. Throughout the 18th century, the regiment saw action in continental Europe, participating in wars such as the War of the Spanish Succession and the War of the Austrian Succession. They served in various locations including Flanders and Germany.

In the latter half of the 18th century, the regiment was involved in colonial conflicts. They served in North America during the American Revolutionary War, participating in several significant battles.

19th Century and Designation Changes:

In 1881, as part of the Childers Reforms which aimed to streamline and regionalize the British infantry, the 26th (Cameronian) Regiment of Foot was amalgamated with the 90th Perthshire Light Infantry. The resulting regiment was named The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). This marked the end of the separate existence of the 26th as an individual regiment.

Legacy:

The 26th (Cameronian) Regiment of Foot maintains a significant place in British military history. Its connection to the Cameronians reflects the social and religious influences on the composition of the British Army during its early years. The regiment's long service in numerous campaigns contributed to the overall history and traditions of the British infantry. Its identity was ultimately subsumed into The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles), which continued to carry on the Cameronian legacy until its own disbandment in 1968.