What was the Durham Militia?
In the 18th Century, every county in England had its own Militia with the local gentry as its officers and its part-time soldiers chosen at first by ballot. The Militia was only for home defence and in wartime would be called up (mobilized) to defend towns and coastal forts from invasion, freeing Regular (professional) soldiers to fight overseas. The Durham Militia was formed in 1759 by the Earl of Darlington at Barnard Castle. During the Napoleonic Wars, the Durham Militia was mobilized and served over 20 years in England and Scotland on garrison duty.
