Documenting the Regimental History

I noticed on the work's calendar that today was a significant date in our Regiment's history. On 21 July 1842, the 55th (Westmoreland) Regiment of Foot captured the town of Tching-Kiang-Fu (Chinkiang), during the first Opium War.

Our work diary has numerous significant dates littered throughout the year. From Acton and Smith's VCs in December, Arroyo day in October and Fontenoy in May, the Regiment and its antecedents have many a notable occasion to remember and commemorate. Sometimes, like Arnhem and Alma, the dates are shared by several key battles. And like many Regiments, their battle honours are listed on their colours which were proudly carried during campaigns and conflict. Some of which, often very fragile items, are carefully preserved in our collections.

So what of the Opium (or First China) War?  Like many disputes, the origins of this war started as a trade dispute between the British and the Chinese, which led to British merchants illegally smuggling Indian opium into China. With the Chinese addicted, the opium transactions generated an enormous amount of silver for the British covering the costs for the entire tea trade. By 1840, the Chinese had had enough.

Relations between the two nations became strained and soon there were naval skirmishes, followed by failed negotiations and further conflict. By August 1842, the Chinese sued for peace with the Treaty of Nanking opening up trade with China and ceding Hong Kong to Britain.

A little bit of history to read on a Tuesday evening. All from that wee date on the work's calendar...enjoy!