The Formation of the modern Laghtnans

The Regiment

The present day regiment was formed in 1988 and takes its name from Colonel Thomas Laghtnan, the field commander of an Irish regiment fighting in Scotland during the Marquis of Montrose's campaign of 1644 to 1645.

We portray an Irish regiment which is part of the Scots Brigade in the Sealed Knot, Officially the Scots Brigade are part of both the Royalist and Parliamentarian armies so, although Laghtnan's is a Royalist regiment, as members of the Scots Brigade we find ourselves fighting on either the Royalist or Parliamentarian sides, depending on either historical accuracy, or the demands of the situation.

Present day members of Laghtnan's come from all walks of life, the age range is varied and we are proud to possess both family and individual members. We are happy to enroll people from all over the country as we have no regional ties, members at the moment come from as far a field as the Highlands in the north to London in the south, and from Wales right across to the east coast!

Individuals from the age of 16, and family groups alike, are welcome, and there are roles for both males and females. 
These roles can be split into two categories, fighting and non-fighting;

Fighting roles are;

Pike - foot soldiers armed with 13-16 foot long wooden poles

Musketeer - foot soldiers armed with a matchlock or flintlock musket

Artillery - crew for cannon

Colour Party - drummers, pipers and flag carriers

Non-fighting roles are;

Baggage Trail - provides refreshment and aid on the field

Living History - portray camp and town life off the field

Medics - trained medical staff who assist the injured or sick on or off the field.

Either sex can fulfill any role!

What will it cost?
There is an annual membership fee and a small annual regimental fee. You will need a kit consisting basically of; jacket,, breeches, shirt, hose, shoes and/or skirt and bodice or dress. The initial outlay does not have to be expensive as the regiment has spare kit which cm be borrowed! Until you buy or make your own.

Pike belong to the regiment, though pikemen will need to get a helmet for safety reasons. Musketeers will start with regimental dummy muskets, but they will need to purchase their own muskets and licenses in time.

Transport to and from an event is not provided but if a lift is needed there will usually be someone who would be willing to oblige. For those events which last a weekend or longer you will need a tent or caravan plus equipment (modern day unless doing Living History), but all Sealed Knot campsites are free!

Last but not least, you will need spending money for food, traders row, sightseeing and, most importantly, the beer tent!

Where is it held?
Venues for Sealed Knot events cover the length and breadth of Great Britain. The events range from small regimental displays at village fetes to major battles featuring numerous regiments from both the Royalist and Parliamentarian armies. Depending on the size of the event you could be there a few hours or, for a major battle, a weekend, week or more! You can choose to go to as few or as many events in a year as you like. Occasionally members are given the opportunity to travel to Europe or the U.S.A. for events/musters.