To The Call of The Bugles: A History of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers 1798-1814

The Percy Tenantry Volunteers, a Home Guard-style military body created by the 2nd Duke of Northumberland, General Hugh Percy, in 1798 to defend Britain against an impending invasion by France, is explored in this book. It features stories from the original volunteers and provides an in-depth understanding of how the corps was organized and trained into an elite and innovative fighting force.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: McNidder & Grace

This captivating illustrated biography delves into the rich history of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers, offering exclusive access to the Duke of Northumberland's treasure trove of archive records. Written with a keen interest in military history, particularly during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic war periods, this book appeals to both enthusiasts of global conflicts and those seeking to explore the local history of Northumberland, with a special focus on Alnwick Castle. While the history of Britain's conflict with France between 1793 and 1815 is extensively documented, one aspect that has received limited attention is the role of volunteers. In 1798, with the fear of a French invasion looming large, the British government urgently sought to strengthen their coastal defenses. To The Call of Bugles unveils, for the first time, the remarkable story of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers, a Home Guard-style military body established by the 2nd Duke of Northumberland, General Hugh Percy. Comprising a formidable force of 1,500 cavalry, artillery, and riflemen, this amateur corps was meticulously assembled, trained, armed, equipped, and operated by General Percy himself. This book offers a firsthand account from the original volunteers, providing a deep insight into the organizational structure and transformation of such a corps into an elite and innovative fighting force.

The Percy Tenantry Volunteers emerged as a response to the imminent threat of a French invasion in 1798. Recognizing the need for a dedicated and well-trained military force to defend the shores of Britain, General Hugh Percy, the 2nd Duke of Northumberland, took the initiative to establish this volunteer corps. The volunteers, drawn from the local communities, were enthusiastic and eager to serve their country in times of need. General Percy played a pivotal role in organizing and training the volunteers, ensuring that they were equipped with the latest weapons and tactics.

One of the key achievements of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers was their rapid response to the French invasion threat. Despite being an amateur corps, they were able to mobilize quickly and deploy to various coastal locations in Northumberland. Their presence served as a deterrent to the French forces and helped to maintain the peace and security of the region.

The volunteers themselves were a diverse group of men, including farmers, tradesmen, and even aristocrats. They were drawn together by a shared sense of duty and a desire to protect their homeland. Their training and discipline were rigorous, and they were taught to operate as a cohesive unit, relying on each other's skills and expertise.

In addition to their military capabilities, the Percy Tenantry Volunteers also played a significant role in the local community. They provided assistance to the needy, helped to maintain law and order, and served as a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Northumberland. Their commitment to service and their bravery in the face of adversity earned them the respect and admiration of their fellow citizens.

To The Call of Bugles provides a detailed account of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers, their history, training, and contributions to the defense of Britain during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic war periods. It sheds light on the role of volunteers in military history and highlights the remarkable achievements of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in military history, particularly the period of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. It also offers a glimpse into the local history of Northumberland, with a special focus on Alnwick Castle, which played a significant role in the defense of the region.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857162502