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by Myke Cole.
Hardback (6.4×9.5 inches). 280 pages. 2024.
Subtitle: Crown, Commonwealth, and the Last Knights in England
This book covers Sir Arthur Hasilrige’s Regiment of Horse, known as “The Lobsters,” during the English Civil War. Sir Arthur and his unit fought in a number of battles and skirmishes: Edgehill, Ripple Field, Lansdown, Devizes (siege), and Roundway Down.
The chief characteristic was the almost full-body armoring of its troopers, with armor from head to knee and thick leather boots. Cole offers an excellent description of the arms, armor, and equipment. In addition, the book offers a captivating comparison of the Dutch caracole versus Swedish fire and charge tactics.
Sir Arthur proved to be an energetic opponent of King Charles, so much so the King ordered his arrest, but Parliamentarians hid him and four others. Once the war started, Sir Arthur raised a troop of cavalry and led them out to war.
The battles and skirmishes are well covered, with Sir Arthur finding himself being pulled into battle and often coming out on the victorious side — at least until the end. While trying to escape, Sir Arthur faced Richard Atkyns, who shot him multiple times, but the armor held. Then, in a miraculous escape, Sir Arthur was rescued by other Lobsters and fled to Bristol. Yet the demise of the armored knight had been complete by the end of this battle.
The book contains seven black and white maps, seven color photos, and 11 color Osprey illustrations.
Sir Arthur’s armored cavalry didn’t last long, but this unit history does the Lobsters — and Sir Arthur — justice. It reads well, dissects the differences in tactics, and delivers an analysis of how the Lobsters fared in battles. Superb.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
