To the Call of Bugles: A History of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers 1798-1814

The history of Britain's conflict with France between 1793 and 1815 is well documented. Nevertheless, one aspect that has scant coverage, is that of the role of the Volunteers. With the fear of invasion from France's all-conquering armies desperately needed to defend their shores, To The Call of Bugles reveals, for the first time, how among those who stood forward in Home Guard style military bodies, there was no finer example than that of the valiant Percy Tenantry Volunteers.

This amateur body of men, 1,500 strong, consisting of cavalry, artillery and riflemen, was put together, trained, armed, dressed and operated by the 2nd Duke of Northumberland, General Hugh Percy. Not only does the author provide an in-depth understanding of how such a corps was organized but reveals how they were fashioned into an elite and innovative fighting force. The final chapters looks at some selected men themselves, who made their own personal mark in the world. For instance, Lieutenant Colonel D.W. Smith, ex Surveyor General of Upper Canada and a revered figure in the creation of that country. Other members of the PTV were Timothy Hackworth and William Hedley, the builders of the famous 'Puffing Billy' steam locomotion, an innovation that would revolutionize the world of transport.