Brief History of West Essex Yeomanry Cavalry
In December 1830 at the time of the
agricultural riots George Palmer was foremost in raising a troop
of Volunteer Yeomanry Cavalry, consisting of 82 members, which
at the time was the only volunteer force in Essex.
Funding for the Cavalry was withdrawn
in 1838 but continued to operate with funding from its members
until 1843 when funding was restored and the Cavalry recognised
by the Home Office once more.
At this stage the Yeomanry was armed
with rifled carbines and acted as a Light Artillery.
In 1868 Lt Colonel Palmer retired
after 38 years in command which seems to have started a decline
in the fortune of the Yeomanry. Within 3 years the Regiment
changed its name to the Essex Yeomanry Cavalry and by 1876 the
Regiment was no more.
