NAM.2005-12-39-2

Scabbard associated with a basket hilted broadsword carried by Capt Colin Campbell Mackay of Bighouse, 1805 (c)-1806 (c). Leather with brass fittings. The locket is marked with maker's name and address, 'R Johnston, 68 St James's St, London', at that address until 1806. The locket and middle band both have suspension rings. Capt Mackay commanded the Grenadier Company of 2nd Bn 78th Regiment of Foot, 1805-1814. Previously he commanded the Bighouse (Mackay) Company or the Reay Fencible Regiment, known as Lord Reay's Highlanders, and served in the 52nd (Oxfordshire) Regiment of Foot (Light Infantry). He served in Calabria in 1806, was present at the siege of Maida and the capture of Catrone. With the 78th Regiment he fought in Egypt, 1807, including the attack on the heights of Alexandria, the siege of Rosetta and the actions at El hamet where he was wounded and taken prisoner (20/21 April 1807).