Research help requested

[XV LD]

Dear All,

A short introduction: I served 15 years with the British Army of which 7.5 was with the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery. I also have 24 years experience of mounted re-enactment covering English Civil War, Medieval and Napoleonic periods. I now reside in Australia with several of my own horses and ride with the 15th Hussars (hence the XV LD).

I now require your help! I have been researching the 15th for the period 1809 to 1815 for the purpose of getting the re-enactment units equipment 100% correct. I have found that modern authors are not particularly thorough with their research! Even Mollo who is normally very good, has made statements that contradict primary source material and Mike Chappell a fantastic illustrator hardly ever shows buckles or construction.

I would be forever grateful to anyone who could provide me with details on the design and construction of the straps, girths, surcingles, bridle, breast plate, Y surcingle, surcingle etc etc, for the Hussar saddle. The saddle itself is well documented and originals still exist. The other sundry tack is normally under other items in illustrations and I have not been able to find originals. I will also need evidence (primary if possible) to support any conclusions drawn. The Holy Grail would be an original piece or a sealed pattern.

Thank you in advance for any help you can give!