What is the origin of the title: “Drum Major” and how did they come to wear a four bar chevron?
A. According to the 1985 edition of UK Army Infantry Training Manual titled The Drummer’s Handbook, the Drum Major was not a true rank until 1810 even though it has appeared as a title many years before. Prior to 1810, Drum Majors were officially paid as drummers, but were actually received Sergeants pay by levying the pay of the remaining drummers. In 1810, Drum Majors were officially recognized as Sergeants and while dressed as Staff Sergeant, 1st Class, they were paid as a Staff Sergeant 2d Class. Other Staff Sergeants, 1st Class, included the Sergeant Major (RSM) and the Quartermaster Sergeant (RQMS). The rank of Staff Sergeant, 1st Class, wore a four bar chevron with the point facing down. In 1869, those wearing four bar chevrons were instructed to wear them below the elbow. In 1881, those wearing four bar chevrons were instructed to wear chevron with the point facing up. However, also in 1881 many Staff Sergeants, 1st Class, were raised to Warrant Officer status, while Drum Major
