Ayrshire Yeomanry adopts 'Earl of Carrick's Own'

Background. The Ayrshire Yeomanry was formed as an independent troop of Fencible Cavalry by the Earl of Cassillis around 1794 and formally adopted into the Army List in 1798. By 1897, the regiment sought to honour the Prince of Wales, who had held the title for almost 60 years. The specific sub-title 'Earl of Carrick's Own' was chosen because the Earl of Carrick is a subsidiary title of the Princes of Wales, deriving from the Ayrshire district of Carrick.

Adoption of the Title. In 1897, the regiment was granted permission to use the title 'Ayrshire Yeomanry Cavalry (Earl of Carrick's Own)' in honour of the future King Edward VII. At this time, Edward was still Prince of Wales and heir apparent, having held the title since 1841. The adoption reflected the connection between the Prince's subsidiary title and the local Ayrshire district, rather than his status as King, which he did not assume until 1901.