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11th Prince of
Wales's Own Lancers (Probyn's Horse) - Lieutenant-Colonel
D M Probyn VC, 1862
Born in London 21 January
1833. He was one of 6 sons of a naval captain. His mother
was sister to Sir William Macnaghten who was murdered at
Kabul in 1841. In 1849, at the age of 16 he was gazetted
to the 6th Bengal Cavalry and in 1852 transferred to 2nd
Punjab Cavalry. This regiment was commanded by the famous
Sam Browne. When the Mutiny broke out they were sent to
Delhi and then to Agra where Probyn won his VC. General
Hope Grant's despatch of 10 January 1858 says that Probyn
'...has been distinguished for gallantry and daring throughout
this campaign. At Agra, when his squadron charged the rebel
infantry, he was some time separated from his men, and surrounded
by 5 or 6 sepoys. He defended himself from the various cuts
made at him, and, before his own men had joined him, had
cut down two of his assailants. At another time, in single
combat with a sepoy, he was wounded in the wrist by the
bayonet, and his horse also slightly wounded; but, though
the sepoy fought desperately, he cut him down. The same
day he singled out a standard-bearer, and in the presence
of a number of the enemy, killed him and captured the standard.
These are only a few of the gallant deeds of this brave
young officer.' He also added '..skillful in the use of
word and spear and an excellent horseman, his active courage
and coolness in conflict have bourne him safely through
many combats.'
In May 1858 Probyn was appointed to command the 1st Regiment
of Sikh Irregular Cavalry. However, since he had been granted
2 year's sick leave in England, he did not assume command
until January 1860. He was treated as a great hero in London
and while there, had his portrait painted. He joined the
regiment just in time to lead them in the Second China War.
He bravely led many charges against Tartar cavalry near
the Taku Forts and at Peking for which the regiment was
awarded battle honours. There was a dispute with the Army
Pay Department because the regiment had accidentally been
paid twice for their service in China. Pending the result
of an inquiry, the extra money was put aside, but after
two years no demand was made so the money was used to set
up a regimental stud and the town of Probynabad. The first
Arab stallion at the stud was Probyn's own charger, Clear-the-Line.
There was further active service in 1863 during the Ambeyla
campaign.
He left the regiment in 1866 and went on to command the
Central India Horse. In 1870 he was chosen to accompany
Queen Victoria's son Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, as equerry
on the Duke's tour of India. In 1872 he became equerry to
the Prince of Wales, and so began his service to the royal
family that lasted until his death on 20th June 1924. See
General Probyn 1897 for picture in later life and account
of his last 52 years.
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