Alan Breck’s Volunteers

 

The Alan Breck Volunteer Regiment is an independent living history society which was raised by the Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust to support its activities. The Regiment was formally raised in a speech at Holyroodhouse on 21st September 2007, by Prince Charles Edward Stuart (portrayed by Arran Johnston, who is now chairman of the society). Martin Margulies was appointed Honorary Colonel of the regiment, and Adam Watters took the lead on the field as the group began to grow. The society is named after Alan Breck Stewart, who changed sides at Prestonpans in 1745, giving the society its most important characteristic: members are prepared to fight for either side according to the need of the occasion, free from prejudice or politics.

Today the society has grown into one of the leading 1745 period re-enactment groups in Scotland. With members right across the country (and a few beyond!), the Regiment undertakes living history and re-enactment events throughout the year. 

Although the society is completely independent, we retain close links with the Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust, taking a leading role in its re-enactments and regularly supporting smaller events at their museum. 

If you are interested in joining us, or in holding a re-enactment event you would like us to be involved with, please contact: ajohnston@battleofprestonpans1745.org

 

WHAT WE DO

Living history, dramatic scenarios & battle re-enactments

We present exciting, informative and entertaining historical events across Scotland and beyond, bringing to life the events of 1745-6. Events range from small show-and-tell events ideal for museums and heritage days, to participation in large battle events alongside other societies. We are proud to be the host regiment of Britain’s largest Jacobite battle event at Prestonpans, now held every 3 years.

We are a non-profit society, and our members portray both Jacobite,redcoats and civilians. We pride ourselves on tailoring our events to suit the opportunities provided by each site, so no two events are ever the same.

As well as tented encampments, our weekend events usually feature a series of timed displays, clothing and weaponry presentations, and exciting skirmishes – all designed to bring history to life.

Contact Us

Our Jacobites

JACOBITES

From the ferocious Highlander to the sturdy Lowlander, from the sword and targe to the musket and bayonet, our Jacobite soldiers are a diverse and formidable mixture of men.

Under the leadership of  Captain Johnston, this hardy band is determined to play its part in restoring the House of Stuart to their rightful place.

These warriors have answered the call of their Prince, Charles Edward Stuart, who is accustomed to leading his men in person at our larger events!

But can the courage and determination of these Jacobites overcome their inexperience?

Our Redcoats (Edinburgh City Guard)

REDCOATS

The official redcoat unit of the Alan Breck’s Regiment is The Edinburgh City Guard. These men were trained and equipped much the same as line regiments, although unlike the historical Guard our company is most commonly found outside the city boundaries! Our soldiers are just as used to patrolling the Highland glens as the closes of the capital!
Sometimes the City Guard are supported by artillery, and sometimes by militia or sailors from HMS Fox. Under Captain Fletcher’s leadership, the City Guard are always keen to demonstrate the military drills of the period, and never miss a chance to skirmish with our Jacobites!

Civilians

JACOBITES

As well as the fighting men of the Regiment, you will often encounter civilians at our events. These are the ordinary men and women, some rich and some poor, whose daily routines were thrown into confusion by the outbreak of conflict.
Sometimes you will meet our civilians in genteel settings, but often they are found supporting the rival forces on campaign, and they will gladly talk to you about the men, women and children who followed the armies in search of profit or security.

The Alan Breck Volunteer Regiment is an independent living history society which was raised by the Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust to support its activities. The Regiment was formally raised in a speech at Holyroodhouse on 21st September 2007, by Prince Charles Edward Stuart (portrayed by Arran Johnston, who is now chairman of the society). Martin Margulies was appointed Honorary Colonel of the regiment, and Adam Watters took the lead on the field as the group began to grow. The society is named after Alan Breck Stewart, who changed sides at Prestonpans in 1745, giving the society its most important characteristic: members are prepared to fight for either side according to the need of the occasion, free from prejudice or politics.

Today the society has grown into one of the leading 1745 period re-enactment groups in Scotland. With members right across the country (and a few beyond!), the Regiment undertakes living history and re-enactment events throughout the year. 

Although the society is completely independent, we retain close links with the Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust, taking a leading role in its re-enactments and regularly supporting smaller events at their museum. 

If you are interested in joining us, or in holding a re-enactment event you would like us to be involved with, please contact: ajohnston@battleofprestonpans1745.org

 

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WHAT WE DO

Living history, dramatic scenarios & battle re-enactments

We present exciting, informative and entertaining historical events across Scotland and beyond, bringing to life the events of 1745-6. Events range from small show-and-tell events ideal for museums and heritage days, to participation in large battle events alongside other societies. We are proud to be the host regiment of Britain’s largest Jacobite battle event at Prestonpans, now held every 3 years.

We are a non-profit society, and our members portray both Jacobite,redcoats and civilians. We pride ourselves on tailoring our events to suit the opportunities provided by each site, so no two events are ever the same.

As well as tented encampments, our weekend events usually feature a series of timed displays, clothing and weaponry presentations, and exciting skirmishes – all designed to bring history to life.

Contact Us

Our Jacobites

JACOBITES

From the ferocious Highlander to the sturdy Lowlander, from the sword and targe to the musket and bayonet, our Jacobite soldiers are a diverse and formidable mixture of men.

Under the leadership of  Captain Johnston, this hardy band is determined to play its part in restoring the House of Stuart to their rightful place.

These warriors have answered the call of their Prince, Charles Edward Stuart, who is accustomed to leading his men in person at our larger events!

But can the courage and determination of these Jacobites overcome their inexperience?

Our Redcoats (Edinburgh City Guard)

REDCOATS

The official redcoat unit of the Alan Breck’s Regiment is The Edinburgh City Guard. These men were trained and equipped much the same as line regiments, although unlike the historical Guard our company is most commonly found outside the city boundaries! Our soldiers are just as used to patrolling the Highland glens as the closes of the capital!
Sometimes the City Guard are supported by artillery, and sometimes by militia or sailors from HMS Fox. Under Captain Fletcher’s leadership, the City Guard are always keen to demonstrate the military drills of the period, and never miss a chance to skirmish with our Jacobites!

Civilians

JACOBITES

As well as the fighting men of the Regiment, you will often encounter civilians at our events. These are the ordinary men and women, some rich and some poor, whose daily routines were thrown into confusion by the outbreak of conflict.
Sometimes you will meet our civilians in genteel settings, but often they are found supporting the rival forces on campaign, and they will gladly talk to you about the men, women and children who followed the armies in search of profit or security.

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