Join Charles Fair, Richard Hendry and me as we discuss the formation, composition and wartime contribution of the London Territorial Force.
Created under the Haldane Reforms of 1908, the Territorial Force was a volunteer element of the British Army made up of infantry, artillery, engineering, medical and logistical units. Many of its formations developed strong identities connected to class, occupation or heritage, bonds that helped sustain them through some of the major engagements of the First World War. By 1918, several territorial units had earned reputations as elite fighting formations.
The London Territorial Force was one such formation. Yet before the outbreak of war in August 1914, it faced persistent difficulties. Indifference, criticism and even hostility in some quarters often undermined efforts to recruit and maintain units at full strength.
In this talk, Charles, Richard and I, editors of the two-volume London Pride: The London Territorial Force in Peace and War, 1908–1921 (Helion, 2025 and 2026), explore the circumstances behind this challenging beginning. Together we will examine the social, economic and demographic landscape of Edwardian London, the early experiences of those who volunteered and how ideas of identity shaped cohesion and performance on the battlefield. Event is free. Tickets: https://www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/london-territorial-force-peace-and-war-1908-21