The Green Tigers

The 49th Regiment of Foot or the Hertfordshire Regiment formed during the War of Austrian Succession in 1744. They became known as ‘The Green Tigers’ for the green facings on their uniform. The regiment took part in the American War of Independence before being sent back to Europe. During the Napoleonic Wars, the 49th campaigned in Holland with the Duke of York in 1799 and served as marines during the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801.

By 1803, the 49th came back to North America. The regiment was spread out across Upper and Lower Canada performing garrison duties. With the declaration of war, the 49th’s orders to return to Europe were cancelled. In October 1812, the 49th was in the Niagara when the Americans launched their invasion on October 13. The 49th performed well during the Battle of Queenston Heights where their former commanding officer Isaac Brock was killed. 

 

49th belt plate

As the war progressed the 49th found themselves fighting in a number of battles including Queenston Heights, Fort George, Stoney Creek and Black Rock, to name a few. Perhaps their most famous battle was at Crysler’s Farm in November 1813. The 49th, along with the 89th, fought against the Americans facing three-to-one odds and won the battle.

After the War of 1812, the 49th became a royal regiment and had its name changed to Princess Charlotte of Wales' Hertfordshire Regiment. They served in the First Opium War and during the Crimean War before being amalgamated with the 66th regiment to form The Royal Berkshire Regiment (Princess Charlotte of Wales's). This new regiment went on to serve in both the First and Second World War.

If you want to find out more about the re-enactors who portray the 49th Regiment of Foot, you can check out their website by clicking here.