A Most Able Officer: Major General John Le Marchant

Paul Le Messurier reveals the little-known story of esteemed cavalry officer Major General John Le Marchant, the founder of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

John Gaspard Le Marchant joined the British Army at the age of 16. Despite his family’s moderate wealth and lack of society connections, he rose through the ranks to become one of the most accomplished cavalry officers of his time.

A master swordsman, he set about designing a new cavalry sabre, writing instruction manuals on swordsmanship and training cavalry men throughout the country.

Following his proposal for a military establishment for the professional training of Army officers, the Royal Military College was eventually founded in 1801. Le Marchant served as its inaugural Lieutenant-Governor. The institution later relocated to Sandhurst, where it evolved to become the world-famous Royal Military Academy.

About the speaker

Paul Le Messurier

Paul Le Messurier is a historian and author who focuses on local and military history. His books include 'Surrey’s Military Heritage' and 'Founder of Sandhurst, Maj-Gen John Le Marchant'. Paul is an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a member of the Society of Authors.