Tunic

This tunic is from a sergeant's dress uniform of the famous British regiment raised in Scotland - the Gordon Highlanders. It was worn by Sergeant John Smith Jackson (1870-1963), who later immigrated to New Zealand.

The shoulder titles reveal that he was part of the 6th (Territorial) Battalion of the Territorial Force which was introduced in 1907 as part of the Haldane Reforms of the British Army (instigated by the British Secretary of State for War, Sir Richard Haldane (1856-1928)).

The yellow cuffs and collar of the tunic are called 'facings'. Yellow is the colour which denotes Scottish regiments. The tunic is similar to the standard British Army tunic of the period but was shorter at the front by an inch or so to expose more of the kilt. Sergeants wore the same uniform as the privates or rank and file, but from higher quality materials.

The 'Redcoats'

Red tunics were worn throughout the British Army from the middle of the 17th century and made an impressive sight. Soldiers became known for their striking scarlet clothing and were called 'Redcoats'. For some, the colour red came to symbolise steadfastness, loyalty and determination.

This tunic looks smart but would have been restrictive in battle.  However, many believed in the Victorian period that posture and tight-fitting colourful clothing were elements that marked a soldier. Smartness was allied to discipline.