The Royal English Regiment  History  The Royal English Regiment was raised in 1672 for service in France as part of Charles II alliance with Louis XIV. They fought in the French Dutch War until being recalled to England in 1678. They were commanded by James Monmouth, later made infamous by his Rebellion against James II, and included the future Duke of Marlborough, later the deadly foe of Louis XIV, but here as a brave young Ensign. Uniforms  There is evidence that the Royal English were kitted out by the French, so were given Grey coats with Blue Cuffs, Blue breeches and Grey stockings. This is for both the musketeers and pikemen. Flags  The Royal English carried the St George Cross with the Royal Crown in the centre, perhaps with Charles’ cipher as well. Officers  Regimental Officers, including Ensigns, during this period were encouraged by their Sovereigns to wear Regimental colours. Where they did, they would have a better quality of cloth, lined with silver or gold lace. But many would still wear their civilian clothes, at the height of fashion of course.

Other Clothing & Equipment   Shirts, lace and neck scarves were almost always  white. The best quality worn by officers would be  whiter than that of the men.  Leather gloves, straps, pouches and other  accoutrements in various natural brown or buff  coloured leathers. Officers may expensive coloured  alternatives covered in fabric. Some cartridge boxes in  black. Shoes, dark brown or black leather. Officers may  expensive coloured alternatives covered in fabric.  Shoelaces could be black, grey or more attractively