The Trained Bands

There was no professional army in England prior to the Civil War.  The country relied on the militia of Trained Bands.  These were supposed to be a middle class force whose primary role was to control any local disorder or riot.  By 1642, however, the quality of both recruits and equipment had deteriorated alarmingly.  Training had become sporadic and some were equipped with bills, pikes and antiquated calivers (an early type of  musket).  They were an inauspicious start for either side to contemplate building an army to fight a Civil War.  They were also reluctant to fight beyond their county boundaries. Although some units continued into the Civil War, many were absorbed into new volunteer regiments.  Although some of the Trained Bands had been issued with uniforms prior to the Civil War, and others were issued with 'clothing' during the Bishops War of 1639-40, there is no evidence that such local militias were issued with uniforms during the Civil War itself.  They would have fought in their civilian doublets.

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Trained Band Drummer

Trained Band musketeer with antiquated caliver

A lower class substitute

The Pike

Trained Band Muster

Peace-time Trained Band soldier in best clothes

Inspecting armour

Discussing the cause


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