Blacksmiths and farriers, 1910 (c)

Photograph, 1910 (c).

The farriers' main job was primarily hoof trimming and fitting horsehoes to Army horses. This combined traditional blacksmith's skills with some veterinarian knowledge about the physiology and care of horses' feet. Most farriers were NCOs; the majority serving with artillery and cavalry regiments. One of their other tasks was the humane despatch of wounded and sick horses.

From a group of 36 photographs collected by Farrier Sgt J Wyvill, 2nd Dragoons (Royal Scots Greys) and 12th (Prince of Wales's Royal) Lancers, 1900 (c)-1918.