Hi Planeteers.
After seeing Ridley Scotts sci fi take on the doomed Franklin expedition im rather taken by the assortment of uniforms on show.Was wondering if anybody has knowledge regarding the Naval uniforms of this time scale c.1840s.What i would like to know is what are the yellow or maybe golden bands that some of the crew are wearing on the peaked caps?.Plus any pointers to book references of the time particularly the Royal Marine detachments?,As its a t.v adaptation i was wondering if the uniforms arent true to the time with artistic license applied.I seem to recall the Royal marines wearing greatcoats with white leather straps over both shoulders.Any book help would be welcome.
Cheers gang and stay safe.
Richard.

I think the yellow cap bands you refer to on some of the officers are probably badly faded and weathered gold lace. It wouldn't have stood up to those harsh conditions for long. Damn good series, with a fine cast.

Alan

Hi Richard,
For Royal Marine uniforms I suggest you have a look at :
rmhistorical.com
which has a wealth of info about uniforms, equipment, shako plates etc for the period in question.
I hope this helps.
Nigel

Thank you kindly chaps.
Rich.

You’re very welcome, Rich. That’s a great website for all thing RM (ps hope you looked under the tab for “photos” as there is some pictures of uniforms for the period in question!).
Nigel

Ive had a quick look Nigel.When i get bit more time i shall have a good look and get immersed in it all.Thanks Chaps.Thinking maybe Some busts of the time period as i find the story interesting if somewhat tragic.
Stay safe guys.
Rich.

Can recommend this to anyone like Rich looking for further info on the Franklin expedition after watching “The Terror” on tv. As they say it’s a jolly good read!

Rich, it contains some daguerreotypes (early photos) of some of the officers for uniform reference.

Theres also great videos on YouTube from Parks Canada from inside the wreck of HMS Terror which is in an amazing state of preservation. Some of the finds are simply incredible.

all the best.
Nigel