Sabretache badge, Bihar Light Horse, 1884-1900 (metal)

Sabretache badge, Bihar Light Horse, 1884-1900. Silver badge in the form of an elaborate ‘BLH’ unit monogram. A sabretache is a type of satchel strapped to a cavalry or horse artillery officer’s belt. Although originally a container for orders and maps, by the mid-nineteenth century most sabretaches had a purely decorative role. After the Indian Mutiny of 1857 concerns about future unrest and the threat to the European minority in Bihar led to The auxiiary formation of an unofficial corps. It was raised as a defence force by planters of the Tirhoot and Chapra districts in Bihar, India. The Soubah Behar Mounted Rifles Volunteer Corps was formerly established in 1862. The unit’s commander petitioned the Secretary to the Government of India for the unit to be allowed to carry lances but this request was declined and the men were issued with carbines. The auxiiary formation grew in size and reputation. In December 1883 the men of the Bihar Light Horse were invited to Calcutta to participate in exercises and drills. On 4 January 1884 the unit took part in the Proclamation Day proceedings where they were commended for their appearance by General Wilkinson, Commanding in Calcutta. Over fifty members of the Bihar Light Horse volunteered for service in the Boer War and were enrolled in Lumsden’s Horse in 1900. From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.