Button, 22nd Regiment of Bombay Infantry, pre-1903

Large, gilt button by Hobson and Sons, London, with the regimental number, '22', within a garter bearing the title, 'Regiment', within a wreath.

The 22nd Bombay Native Infantry was formed in 1824 from the 2nd Battalion, 11th Regiment of Bombay Native Infantry. The term 'Native' was dropped from the title in 1885. In 'Her Majesty's Indian and Colonial Forces', published in 1890, Walter Richards records that the 22nd has 'always been recognised as a smart and efficient regiment' but acknowledges their lack of campaign experience. The regiment did however go on to serve in the 3rd China War, or Boxer Rebellion, in 1900. As part of the reform of the Indian Army in 1903 the regiment became the 122nd Rajputana Infantry.

From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.