PROUD OF OUR HERITAGE

The early history of the band is not as clearly documented as that of the Essex Yeomanry Regiment itself. Although trumpeters were used by all cavalry regiments as a means of giving commands, the first real evidence of an Essex Yeomanry Band (then on horseback), was recorded in 1809. In 1830, the Commanding Officer of the West Essex Yeomanry was financially supporting the band out of his own pocket. An engraving of 1846 shows a drummer mounted on a white horse, sporting a plumed turban. The other mounted bandsmen wore the Yeomanry uniform of the period. In 1877, the West Essex Yeomanry reformed and became the Waltham Abbey Town Band, continuing to wear the Yeomanry uniform.

The Essex Yeomanry became gunners in 1921, but still retained the band. The musicians were now dismounted, but continued to entertain all those who heard them play. By 1937, the band was in full dress uniform of the Regiment, complete with brass helmets. During the 1939-45 war, the Essex Yeomanry Band was disbanded, but reformed again in 1947. This was a difficult time for the players, as all the uniforms had been destroyed in the bombing of Chelmsford. In 1952, official recognition of the band was given by the War Office, but like the regiments was sadly withdrawn in 1968. In the early 1980s the band took a controversial step for the time and accepted women musicians, we even had to design a special uniform for them. Now more than 50% of the band are female. 

The band continues to have a close relationship with the Essex Yeomanry Regiment and a member of the Regiment acts as our President.

As a result of hard work given by successive Directors of Music and the loyalty of musicians, the band now operates on a self-supporting basis. Members pay an annual subscription towards the band's upkeep, together with income from concerts. The band plays at occasions ranging from public concerts to garden parties and special events.