Leeds Rifles blue plaque

This blue commemorative plaque records: The Leeds Rifles. A volunteer corps raised by resolution of Leeds Town Council in 1859 when the Government feared the French might invade Britain. This headquarters, Carlton Barracks, was built in 1887 and remained the home of the Leeds Rifles until disbandment in 1969. Recorded plaque organisation: Leeds Civic Trust.

The Leeds Rifles were a volunteer corps established in 1859 to defend against potential French invasion, reflecting Victorian-era fears of foreign attack; they served locally and overseas until their disbandment in 1969.