Historical information

During the desert campaign in World War One (1914-1918) when grazing was non existent the horses began eating their neck ropes as a substitute. As a result the ropes were replaced with the British cavalry neck chain. The links are for securing the toggle piece when it was around the horses neck whilst being ridden. When the rider dismounted he would unlink the chain and use it as the horses lead chain. It was also used to tether the horse. It is doubtful if the chains were ever issued to light horse in Australia so it is likely this chain was brought home from the Middle East after the war.

Significance

Rare relic of the Middle East campaign during World War One (1914-1918).

Physical description

Chain with loop om one end, toggle on the other and two intermediate plates with a cross shaped hole punched through them.