'General Beatson', 1850 (c)

Steel engraving by Stodart from a photograph by Mayall, published by James S Virtue, 1850 (c).

General William Fergusson Beatson (1804-1872) in the uniform of Beatson's Horse.

General William Fergusson Beatson (1804-1872) fought in the Carlist Wars in Spain and gained considerable experience commanding native troops in India. In 1854, during the Crimean War (1854-1856) he was given charge of the Bashi Bazouks, Turkish irregulars in British pay. Beatson took part in the Charge of the Heavy Brigade during the Battle of Balaklava as a member of Brigadier James Yorke Scarlett's staff.