BJ-005 -- British 4th Regiment of Foot, (Barrell’s) GrenadiersSet # 1

Grenadier, derived from the word Grenade, was originally a specialized soldier, first established in the mid to late 17th Century, for the throwing of grenades, and sometimes assault operations.

It was usual for the Grenadiers to be chosen from the strongest and tallest soldiers.

At this time the complicated movements necessary for the throwing of the grenade made the adoption of a special headdress a necessary measure. Before the grenade could be thrown, the musket had to be slung across the shoulder, which meant that the cumbersome three-cornered hat generally worn at the time would usually be knocked off. A tall mitre cap without any projecting brim was therefore chosen.