Royal Marine Battalions in the War of 1812

Royal Marine Battalions in the War of 1812

Three Royal Marine Battalions fought in the War of 1812. Battalions fought at actions near Lake Ontario, and the attached artillery fought throughout Niagara. In 1814, these were heavily involved in the US counter invasion. Each battalion had attached artillery. The attached artillery fought in the blue and grey fatigues shown above. They would have been wearing a fatigue hat as shown. 

The plates above, and the information below were published by Carl Benn. The complete article is easily found online for more information. Though these are for the Royal Marine Artillery, I have included the text which explains that the  artillery had identical uniforms as the Marines. These are the best, and most comprehensive plates for these temporary formations. Unfortunately, no one makes these with regular back packs and pantaloons. Perry miniatures makes them, but with blanket rolls, they would be suitable for Egypt and the early Napoleonic Wars. Brigade Games sells heads and command packs. I am making mine a mix of Perry metals with a backpack swap, and the Brigade Games heads and command. 

Two battalions were formed to defend Canada, and a third battalion of regular companies mixed with the Colonial Marines was formed in 1814 of freed slaves. The third battalion had 3 companies of regular marines, and 3 of Colonial Marines. The third battalion had 1 company of each fight at Bladensburg, and North Point. Afterwards, the 3 companies of freed slaves resettled in the Caribbean. All three battalions were divided again after the war. 

All 3 battalions would have had red jackets, and either "fast blue" or white pantaloons. The high gaiters shown in so many illustrations is not correct for in the field since these were full dress. Technically, white pantaloons were worn in warm weather, and fast blue in cooler climates. I will make one of each colour of pantaloons.

These units had standards, but I believe these were kept at headquarters, as these were ad hoc formations that filled somewhat of a light infantry role. I'm not certain of this, but it makes sense.

Each battalion had attached artillery these consisted of; 4 six pounders, 2 5.5 inch howitzers, 2 eight inch howitzers, 2 ten inch mortars, and a rocket section (equivalent of 2 cannons). The rocket sections would presumably have had all three types of rockets (small, mid, and heavy) the launchers varied for each (see my earlier article). Elements of these fought at many engagements, but seemed to mostly be divided up for different purposes.

Our wargaming group will be continuing to game the rest of the War of 1812 campaigns. The Chesapeake Campaign, New Orleans Campaign, The Western Theatre, and even Queenston Heights. After a long hiatus, The War of 1812 returns.