Four Volunteer Battalions were formed in 1883 from the various Rifle Volunteer units that existed as individual units or administered by one of the two remaining Admin Battalions. The units existed until 1908 when converted and renamed upon formation of the Territorial Force.
1st Volunteer Battalion
Previously the 1st Essex Rifle Volunteer Corps and before that the 3rd Admin Battalion. At peak strength consisted of 14 Companies.
Helmet Plates.
First pattern: officer silvered and other ranks blackened Maltese Cross.
Second and third (Star) patterns. Officer (silvered) and other ranks blackened; other ranks white metal.
Glengarry Badges.
Officer silvered Glengarry badge; Other ranks first and second pattern Glengarry badges (blackened).
Cap Badges.
First pattern: Officer silver and bronze cap badges; Other ranks blackened and white metal cap badges.
Second pattern (South Africa scroll): Officer silver and bronze cap badges; Other ranks blackened, white metal and gilding cap badges.
Other Badges.
Field service cap badge worn pre 1905 (blackened.)
Successor unit: The 4th (TF) Bn Essex Regiment