Archives show 1790s invasion fears

RECORDS of the East Riding militias formed to defend England during the threat of invasion following the French Revolution are being made available for viewing.

In 1792 France declared itself a republic and the following year King Louis XVI was beheaded, with the turmoil leading to fears of war.

To supplement England’s regular army, local people were called to arms to stand guard of their communities.

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The Committee For Internal Defence was formed and held its first meeting at The Tiger Inn at Beverley on April 17, 1794.

It was tasked with defending the area stretching from the banks of the Humber to Filey Bay, and decided first to repair the fort at Bridlington Quay and stock it with ordnance and ammunition.

A system of beacons was set up to act as an early warning system if the French landed on the East Coast.

Five companies of militia were formed in, each about 60 men-strong, in Bridlington, Hedon, Howden, Patrington and Pocklington, though only two volunteers were mustered at Hornsea.

The records are held at East Riding Archives and Local Studies Service in Beverley.