History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, Vol. 1: Compiled from the Original Records

"History of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, Vol. 1" by Francis Duncan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book details the development and service history of the Royal Artillery, tracing its roots from early artillery efforts in England through to the peace established in 1783. It explores the complexities and significant milestones in the evolution of military artillery throughout various conflicts, highlighting key figures and events that shaped the regiment. The opening of the work sets the stage for this extensive history, beginning with a poignant illustration of the struggles faced by early artillery personnel, such as John Hawling, a Master Gunner who petitioned for assistance, reflecting the precarious nature of their role. Duncan introduces the organization and responsibilities of the Board of Ordnance, emphasizing the transition from rudimentary artillery to the more structured Royal Artillery, while underscoring the historical challenges that impacted its development. He outlines the need for a coherent record of the regiment’s past to maintain a sense of unity and discipline among its current members, foreshadowing comprehensive explorations of key battles and organizational changes that will follow in subsequent chapters.