Ryde was often regarded as a more genteel area in which to live, compared with the hustle and bustle of Portsmouth. This meant that many military people came to live in the town. There were several garrisons on the island, and always a military presence at the numerous balls and functions which took place around Ryde throughout the 19th century. The military were part and parcel of life in the town, and no social event was complete without its fair share of Colonels, Majors and Lieutenants!
Isle of Wight Observer – June 9, 1888
IW RIFLE VOLUNTEERS
A AND B (RYDE) COMPANIES
Orders for the ensuing week – 1. The Detachment will parade on Thursday for drill under the Adjutant, glengarries to be worn; the band will attend. – 2. Second-class firing for A company on Wednesday and Saturday, at 4pm. – 3. Winners of monthly competitions, Lance-Sergeant F W Flux, with 90 points; Corporal H Griffin, 74 points. – Orderly officers, Lieutenant H Sweetman, Sergeants W Waller and J M Trodd.
Jas Flux, Capt., Comdg. Detachment.
HANTS CARABINIERS
E TROOP, ISLE OF WIGHT
Orders for the ensuing week. – The above troop will parade (mounted) for drill at Mr Gibson’s Farm, East Ashey, on Tuesday, at 1o’clock punctually, in full marching order, viz., helmet, tunic, haversack, pouch and belt, gloves, pantaloons, jack boots and spurs, horse properly equipped, with sword, carbine, cloak, nosebag and shoe case on saddle, nosebag folded, head rope on head collar.
By order, H ALEXANDER,
Capt. Commanding Troop.
