Alan Breck’s Volunteers

 

The Alan Breck Volunteers were first raised in September 2007 to fight with the 77th Montgomeries and Glenbucket’s Regiments at the Battle of Prestonpans that year. Colonel Martin Margulies took immediate command under Proclamation by HRH The Prince Charles Edward at Holyroodhouse Palace on September 21st, 2007.  Its founding members are those who fought on September 21st and 22nd in the engagement with Colonel Gardiner at Bankton House and in the capture of Lieutenant General Sir John Cope’s baggage train at Cockenzie House after negotiating the Riggonhead Defile at 4 am in the morning.

 

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-scale character appearances to participation in large battle events alongside colleagues from other societies. We are proud to be the host regiment of Britain’s largest Jacobite battle event each year at Prestonpans.

 

Most of our events involve tented encampments, where our soldiers will eat and sleep whilst “on campaign” at a venue. If there is an enemy camp nearby, you can be sure that their patrols will clash and trouble will follow…!

 

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 you might find our men defending ancient fortifications or lying in ambush on wooded track ways!

 

Weekend events usually feature a series of displays, clothing and weaponry presentations, and exciting skirmishes.

 

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 Johnstone, 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?

Redcoats

REDCOATS

The official redcoat unit of the Alan Breck’s Regiment is The Edinburgh City Guard. These men were trained and equipped the same as line infantry, so our soldiers are just as at home in the firing line as patrolling the closes of the capital!

Photo by Anita Nutter

At our events you might also meet Barbara, our magnificent “galloper” cannon. Our barrel is deactivated to allow you to get a closer look! Just like the cannons at the Battle of Prestonpans, Barbara is usually left in the care of our sailor from HMS Fox.

 

 

 

 

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 shattered by the outbreak of war in their homelands.

 

Meet the ladies of Edinburgh and ask why they cheer for the “bonnie” Prince? Do the gentlemen of the town feel the same?

 

Talk to the men, women and children who follow the rival armies both in search of profit and security.

 

ese 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?