11th (Service) Battalion

[Neil Pearce]

Has anybody information on the bronze cap badge for the 11th (Service Battn) Manchesters?

Specifically, where and when this was worn?  I have been browsing the hundreds of fantastic photographs, and can see no reference to this badge....

The badge is fleur de lys, with scroll reading "11th Manchester".  I gather it has also been seen in silver, so presumably for officers only?

All the information on this site suggests that the fleur de lys cap badge was not worn until 1922/23 (1923 officially approved), so am seeking clarification on theis confusing issue.

Is the badge in question a collar badge?

Thanks to all in anticipation!
Regards, Neil

[kingo]

Neil, there is a photograph of the cap badge on page 17 of Michael Stedmans "Manchester Pals" and he speculates that they were "privately struck by a group of Officers wishing to emphasize the character and origins of their unit as well as the personal status of each Officer". As far as i am aware, the Men wore the traditional cap badge of the coat of arms of Manchester.

[Neil Pearce]

Thanks Kingo.  I will obtain a copy of the book.  There seems to be little available information on this badge.

Attached are pictures of my example.  I will post more information as and when it becomes available.

Thanks again, Neil

[harribobs]

The floriated fleur de lys is very much in the style of the 7th Battalion and (as they were previously) the 4th Volunteer Battalion



the 11th fleur de lys is a very rare badge