The Lorne Scots Regiment

The Lorne Scots trace their origins to 1866, with the formation of the 36th “Peel” Battalion of Infantry and the 20th “Halton” Battalion of Infantry. These units were raised to provide local defense in the regions now known as Peel, Dufferin, and Halton Counties. The battalions developed strong local ties and became central to the emerging militia system in southern Ontario.

In 1879, following a visit from the Marquis of Lorne, the Halton Battalion embraced Scottish military traditions. This led to the formation of a pipe band in 1881, the adoption of tartan trews, and diced Glengarry bonnets. Later, the battalion was redesignated as the 20th Halton “Lorne Rifles”, cementing its Scottish identity. The Peel and Dufferin elements developed in parallel, participating in domestic operations and militia duties.

The regiment also adopted the primrose hackle, which it inherited from the Lancashire Fusiliers, a British regiment with which the Lorne Scots developed a historic connection. The hackle remains a distinguishing feature of the regiment’s headdress, symbolizing both heritage and camaraderie with allied units.

During the First World War, the regiment’s predecessor units contributed volunteers to several Canadian Expeditionary Force battalions, serving in major battles on the Western Front, including Ypres, the Somme, and Vimy Ridge. In the Second World War, the Lorne Scots mobilized as part of Canada’s active service forces, deploying companies to Italy and Northwest Europe. Their soldiers earned numerous battle honours and upheld the regiment’s reputation for discipline and effectiveness.

A major militia reorganization in 1936 merged the Peel, Dufferin, and Halton elements with the Lorne Rifles, forming the modern Lorne Scots (Peel, Dufferin & Halton Regiment). Since then, the regiment has continued as a Light Infantry unit in the Canadian Army Reserve, contributing soldiers to domestic operations, peacekeeping missions, and overseas deployments, including Afghanistan.

Today, the Lorne Scots maintain a strong connection to their community and Scottish heritage, proudly wearing Highland dress and the primrose hackle, and carrying the regimental motto: “Air son ar duthchais” meaning “For our heritage.” The regiment’s long history reflects over 150 years of service, combining local roots, Scottish tradition, and operational excellence.