Quote Originally Posted by OC Richard View Post
Just got a couple more vintage postcards, first of the Four Princes



then of a man of an unknown regiment, appears to be from the 1860s



Another old post card arrived yesterday! No name or date, but the postage required is a halfpenny!

Anyhow four unidentified pipers. This photo rewards careful study.

The unknown soldier is indeed, as OC Richards says, an early photograph of a London Scottish Rifle Volunteer soldier from the kilted company. In the pre 1908 days the cap badge was a plain white metal thistle (as on the sporran and collar dogs) but this wasn't reinforced, and many wore the Clan badge or plant of the Company Commander. The kilt is The Hodden Grey, and so is the tunic, the cuffs and collar are of a royal blue, and the braid was a dull buff. The Hodden Grey is now recognised as one of the first forms of camouflage.