The
Effect Of The Cardwell Reforms 1881
Major changes took place throughout the Army in the 1870s
and 80s, driven by the Secretary of War, Edward Cardwell.
He abolished the purchasing of commissions and altered terms
of service for both officers and soldiers. There were major
changes for the Infantry and the future relationship with
the County of Surrey developed. Cardwell divided the United
Kingdom into sixty-six brigade sub-districts, each of which
had a depot and two battalions, one of which would be abroad.
In addition, various committees worked on strengthening
territorial relationships. The Queen’s (Second) Royal
Regiment of Foot had already formed a 2nd Battalion in 1857
and in 1881 they became the 1st and 2nd Battalions
of The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey) Regiment.
Also, in 1881 The 31st (Huntingdonshire) Regiment and The
70th (Surrey) Regiment became the 1st and 2nd Battalions
of The East Surrey Regiment. |
