Historical information

In 1862, the units of the Mounted Volunteer Corps in Victoria were formed into a single regiment known as the Victorian Volunteer Light Horse. This title changed again in 1863, to the Prince of Wales Victorian Volunteer Light Horse ( Hussars ). In 1870 a uniform was adopted that was based on the British 19th Hussars. Troops were based at various times at Geelong, Ballarat, Kyneton, Bendigo, Castlemaine and Dandenong, as well as metropolitan Melbourne. In 1885, most of the Cavalry were incorporated into a newly formed Victorian Mounted Rifles. (http://www.awm.gov.au/collection/REL/18070.001)

"It is notified in the Gazette that Lieutenant Laurence Whyte, Ballarat troop Prince of Wales Light Horse, has been appointed captain, seniority to date from January 31. " (The Argus, 17 February 1883)

"An official inspection of the P.W.L.H. took place in the Royal Park last evening by the colonel-commandant, assisted by Colonel Rede; Captain Medealf in command of the, troop. After bring exercised in field movements, a sword competition took place, toe first prize bring awarded to Trooper L. Whyte ; the "second to Sergeant Blight; the third, to Trooper Jenkins; and the fourth, to Trooper Orr, of Creswick. Major Sleep officiated as timekeeper. The colonel commandant complimented Captain Med-calf upon the efficiency of the troop, and officers and men afterwards dined together at Craig's hotel. (Ballarat Courier, 09 March 1877.)

Physical description

Silver coloured sword and scabbard with leather hand grip within the hilt. The sword was awarded to Trooper Whyte of the Prince of Wales Victorian Volunteer Light Horse (Ballarat) in 1877.

Inscriptions & markings

. Engraved into handle

"Ballarat Troop
P.W.V.V.L.H
Officers Trophy
FIRST PRIZE
WON BY
Trooper Whyte
AT
SWORD
Competition
8th March
1877"