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Title Eton College Home Service helmet, 1871 pattern
Nationality British
Period c 1880
Sold

Eton College Rifle Volunteers helmet, worn by Arthur Henry Bromley-Davenport while at Eton, 1881-1885 (his name is inked in on the lining). This comparatively rare helmet in other ranks format (I've never seen an officer's version) was worn by the College Cadet Corps from about 1880 to the Great War (ie 1914).

Davenport was a quite well-known actor/theatre manager in the Edwardian period. There is an extensive half-page biography of him in 'The Old Public School-boys Who's Who - Eton', first published in 1933. Minor moth-tracking to surface cloth, otherwise in generally excellent order throughout except for fading to the original colours (cornflower blue bands on a light purple backcloth).

The 2nd Buckinghamshire Volunteer Rifle Corps became Eton College Officers Training Corps in the 1920s. The original unit, the Eton College Volunteer Rifle Corps, was raised in 1872.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Militaria : Headdress : British : 19th Century]

testimonials

Just a brief note to confirm that the sabre has been delivered today. All is as it should be. I have to say I’m impressed with the ‘custom’ packaging, obviously essential in your line of business. I have made a very quick inspection of the sword & it fully lives up to your accurate description, very pleased with the purchase.

M B, UK, 18.06.2015

The documents were absolutely perfect - more than I expected.

C T, UK, 21.02.2012

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