We are a living history society

with an interest in the 60th Royal American Regiment.

 

    This site is dedicated to providing a place to share our interests and enjoyment. With links to groups portraying the 60th from the French and Indian War, the Napoleonic War and War of 1812, through later periods of history. Today’s Rifles are currently serving in Afghanistan. We do  our best to keep their history alive.

5th / 60th

 Welcome to the 5th of the 60th (USA) who work to defeat the tyrannical forces of Napoleon Bonaparte. We recreate the lives of soldiers and camp followers during the Napoleonic Wars, engaging in dramatic battles and living in period encampments. Our society is made up of enthusiasts who gather to portray this outstanding regiment of the first Riflemen and their followers.

A little history...  Our Society re-enacts a period in which Great Britain’s military engagements occupied its forces across the globe. The regiment saw action in the Americas, the Iberian Peninsula and  various other campaigns.

 Formed in 1756 as ‘The Royal American Regiment of foot’  the 60th fought the French in British North America.  At the battle of Quebec in 1759 the unit was given the motto ‘Celer et Audax’ (Swift & Bold) by General Wolfe.

  As early as 1794 rifles were introduced into the British army. A battalion of the 60th were the first to receive them. The 5th Battalion was raised in 1797 and dressed in green and armed with the Baker rifle. They were unique in their time as they were the only regiment of riflemen in the British Army pre-dating the ‘Experimental Corp of Riflemen’ by three years. It did not take long for this latest development in British Military history to display its potential and acquire such a reputation that it would become classed amongst the elite of Wellington’s Army and gain more battle honours than any other regiment in the Peninsula..   

Opening of the Peninsular War