Northumbrian Gunner: Beamish - 68th Durham Regiment of Foot

The 68th Regiment of Foot (Light Infantry) was an infantry regiment of the British Army, raised in 1758. There first Colonel was John Lambton from Durham.

In August 1782, it was decided to attach counties to regiments to aid recruitment, and the 68th was allotted to County Durham, becoming the 68th (Durham) Regiment of Foot. Under the Childers Reforms it amalgamated with the 106th Bombay Light Infantry to form the Durham Light Infantry in 1881.

They served in the Seven Years War (1756 to 1763) as Britian and France fougt for global pre-eminene. They fought in France and the West Indies, and spent some time stationed in the North East.

During the Peninsular War (1808 to 1813) against Napoleon, they fought at Salamanca, Vitoria, in the Pyrenees, crossing into France. In France they engaged in the Battle's of Nivelle and Orthez, and aftered the fighting was over they entered Bordeux in March 1814.

The 68th Foot were awarded their first battle honour Peninsular. They would not active service again for 40 years when they were involved in the Crimean War.

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BEAMISH

The Old 68th Durham Light Infantry Society and Display Team

The Old 68th Durham Light Infantry Society and Display Team have set up camp at Pockerley Old Hall this weekend! Watch drill displays, see musket-firing demonstrations and find out about life in the army in the 1800s. pic.twitter.com/VKcHQg3DCk

— Beamish Museum (@Beamish_Museum) May 21, 2022