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Duke of Wellington's Regiment Museum

With nearly 300 years of history behind them, the Dukes continue the traditions of the old 33rd and 76th Foot. The ‘Iron Duke’ was the Colonel of the 33rd which became, after his death, the only Regiment to be named after a person not of the Royal Blood. The 76th served for many years in India and earned the privilege of carrying a pair of Honorary Colours (flags). Today the Dukes are unique in carrying four colours on Parade.

In 1881 these two Regiments were linked, thus forming the present day Dukes. Their Headquarters, as is still the case, were at Halifax and their recruits, as is still the case, came from their traditional recruiting area, the West Riding of Yorkshire.

The Regiments’ Battle Honours range from Dettingen (1743) to The Hook, Korea (1953), together with many unrecognised actions. Twenty one Battalions served during the First World War and during the Second World War men from twelve Battalions served as Tank crews, Artillery men and Engineers in addition to their traditional role as Infantry. Since 1945, the Dukes have served with United Nations Forces in several operations in addition to their Tours of Duty in Northern Ireland.

The Regimental Collection is displayed at Bankfield Museum, the former home of 19th Century mill owner Colonel Edward Akroyd. In 1859 he raised the 4th Yorkshire West Riding Rifle Volunteers, which later became the Dukes 1st Volunteer Battalion. As M.P. he gave enthusiastic support for the establishment of the Regimental Depot in Halifax.

In conjunction with the Regimental Archives, which are held elsewhere, the Museum can assist with historical enquiries (for which a charge may be levied). The Museum can also assist with a range of educational activities based on the collections, with emphasis on the National Curriculum and the two World Wars.

Opening times

Closed: Mondays (except Bank Holidays), Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

• Address:
• The Duke of Wellington’s Regimental Museum
  Bankfield Museum
  Akroyd Park
  Halifax HX3 6HG
• E-mail:
• museums-arts@calderdale.gov.uk
• Telephone:
• 01422 354823 / 01422 352334
• Fax:
• 01422 349020.

See also loans, donations and bequests .

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