First Sudan War 1884 - 1885

The Gordon Highlanders were one of the British Army’s most celebrated regiments. It was the local regiment of the North East of Scotland, was first raised in 1794 by the Duke of Gordon, who was assisted by the Duchess of Gordon. It was said she offered a kiss as an incentive to join up.

Always known as the Gordon Highlanders, the Regiment was officially designated the 100th Regiment of Foot, becoming in 1798 the 92nd Regiment of Foot. The numbering with which it has since been associated.

The 1st Battalion of the Gordons was sent to Sudan, and was issued grey wool jackets, which were worn throughout the campaign.

This was the uniform worn by the Gordons at the Battles of El Teb, and Tamai in 1884. There were seven companies at Tamai, and they formed the left side and front corner of General Buller’s square. Their "machine-like” volleys of gun fire were one of the main reasons that the pressure was relieved on the second British square which had been broken by the Dervish onslaught.

At Kirbekan, 10th February 1885, only Captain Ian Hamilton’s D Company was present in the last desperate attempt to relieve Gen. Charles Gordon in Khartoum.

At the close of 1885 the regiment returned to Egypt for a rest and was then reassigned to duty at Malta.