Indian farriers, 1940 circa (b/w photo)

Indian farriers, 1940 circa. Photograph, India, 1940 circa. The farriers’ main job was primarily hoof trimming and fitting horsehoes to Army horses. This combined traditional blacksmith’s skills with some veterinarian knowledge about the physiology and care of horses’ feet. Most farriers were non-commissioned officers; the majority serving with artillery and cavalry regiments. One of their other tasks was the humane despatch of wounded and sick horses. From an album of 484 photographs, letters and newspaper cuttings, 1858-1961. Associated with 18th King George’s Own Lancers, 19th Lancers (Fane’s Horse) and 19th King George’s Own Lancers.