Revolutionary fears spurred its creation. The Oxfordshire Yeomanry Blue plaque marks a site of significant history. It commemorates the beginnings of the Oxfordshire Yeomanry in 1794.
Back then the Star Inn stood here at 34 Cornmarket Street. Today the Clarendon Centre occupies this location. The Blue Plaque is now on the north wall at the entrance to Frewin Court.
Imagine the scene in 1794. Fears of invasion by French Revolutionary forces gripped the nation. The government called for volunteer troops in every shire. In response nobility gentry freeholders and yeomanry gathered at the Star Inn.
This meeting led to the formation of the County Fencible Cavalry in 1798. This cavalry formed in Watlington. It was the forerunner of the Oxfordshire Yeomanry.
The Oxfordshire Yeomanry later received a prestigious title. Queen Adelaide conferred the title Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars in 1835. This happened after her visit to Oxford.
The regiment has a rich history of commanders. Several Dukes of Marlborough and their family members led the regiment. Sir Winston Churchill also had strong ties. He commanded the Henley Squadron from 1905 to 1913. At the time of his death in 1965 he was Honorary Colonel.
Men of the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars served in major conflicts. They fought in many wars of modern times. In 1972 the unit became part of the Royal Corps of Signals. They were based in Banbury. Later in 2014 they joined the Royal Logistic Corps. They remained Reservists in Banbury.
The Star Inn had a long history before the Oxfordshire Yeomanry. Established in 1397 as Marshall’s Inn it was first recorded in 1469. By the eighteenth century it was a major coaching inn.
In 1863 the Clarendon Hotel incorporated the Star Inn. It was one of Oxford’s best hotels. However it was demolished in 1954. This demolition made way for a Woolworth’s building. Later Woolworth’s was also demolished to construct the Clarendon Centre.
The Oxfordshire Yeomanry Blue Plaque unveiling occurred on November 8 2003. John Spencer-Churchill the 11th Duke of Marlborough unveiled it. The Duke spoke passionately about the regiment’s history. He mentioned the initial meetings at the Star Inn. He emphasized the importance of local peacekeepers.
He noted the evolution of the Oxfordshire Yeomanry. From quelling county disturbances to becoming a smart regiment. He also highlighted the service of its members in various conflicts. Ordinary people from Oxfordshire volunteered served and died for their country.
The unveiling event featured a contingent from 5 (QOOH) Squadron Royal Signals. Many members of the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars Association also attended.
So as you pass this Oxfordshire Yeomanry Blue plaque remember its significance. It honors the volunteers and their service to both country and community. Their legacy continues to inspire.