Usher of the Scarlet Rod
The Usher of the Scarlet Rod, formally known as the Gentleman Usher of the Scarlet Rod or Lady Usher of the Scarlet Rod, is a distinguished official serving the Most Honourable Order of the Bath. Established on January 14, 1726, this role is central to the ceremonial functions of one of the United Kingdom's most prestigious orders of chivalry.
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The Connection to the Brunswick Herald
At the time of the office's creation, the position was annexed with that of the Brunswick Herald, an officer of arms specifically for the Order of the Bath. An officer of arms is a professional herald responsible for the regulation of armorial bearings and ceremonial duties.
While the Brunswick Herald was not originally a member of the College of Arms (the official body of heralds in England), the final four individuals to hold the position were officers in ordinary of the college. This heraldic connection is still visible in the order's badge, which is enamelled with the arms of the Braunschweig (Brunswick) family: Gules, two lions passant guardant or (two gold lions walking and facing the viewer on a red field).
The dual nature of the role changed in 1857, when the Order of the Bath underwent a remodeling process, causing the office of the Brunswick Herald to lapse.
Key Facts
- Established: January 14, 1726.
- Primary Role: Usher to the Most Honourable Order of the Bath.
- Historical Link: Formerly combined with the position of Brunswick Herald until 1857.
- Current Holder: Major General Susan Ridge, the first Lady Usher of the Scarlet Rod.
- Heraldry: The order's badge features the Braunschweig family arms (two gold lions on a red background).
Chronology of Office Holders
Since 1726, the office has been held by a succession of distinguished figures, many of whom have held high ranks in the British Armed Forces.
| Holder | Term of Office |
|---|---|
| Edmund Sawyer | 1726 – ? |
| Sir Isaac Heard | bef. 1806 – 1814 |
| George Frederick Beltz | 1814 – 1841 |
| Colonel Sir Charles Wyndham Murray | 1913 – 1928 |
| Air Vice Marshal Sir Charles Longcroft | 1932 – 1948 |
| Air Marshal Sir Anthony Selway | 1964 – 1979 |
| Major General Charles Vyvyan | 2006 – 2018 |
| Major General Susan Ridge | 2023 – Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the office of the Usher of the Scarlet Rod established?
The office was established on January 14, 1726, to serve the Most Honourable Order of the Bath.
Who is the current Usher of the Scarlet Rod?
The current holder is Major General Susan Ridge, who assumed the role on June 19, 2023. She is the first woman to hold the position as Lady Usher of the Scarlet Rod.
What happened to the Brunswick Herald position?
The position of the Brunswick Herald was annexed to the Usher of the Scarlet Rod upon its establishment but lapsed in 1857 when the Order of the Bath was remodelled.
What is the heraldic significance of the Order of the Bath's badge?
The badge is enamelled with the arms of the Braunschweig (Brunswick) family, featuring two gold lions passant guardant on a red (Gules) field.
Was the Brunswick Herald part of the College of Arms?
Generally, the Brunswick Herald was not part of the College of Arms, although the final four holders of the office were officers in ordinary of the college.