Who Used Spurs?
Mounted infantry were infantrymen who rode horses instead of marching.
Spurs, First World War, Original
Description: These objects are spurs. They are attached by a leather strap to the heel of a riding boot. A spur consists of a metal U shaped yoke with a protruding wheel of spikes that rotate. This is called a rowel. Spurs are worn in pairs – one for each foot – and are used by equestrians to help control and direct a horse.
Spurs have been used for centuries, particularly in the military. Spurs made from iron or bronze were worn by the ancient Celts, Romans and Greeks. Spurs are worn with the leather strap over the front of the ankle and the metal U cupping the back of the heel. The rowel sticks out behind the heel so that the rider can use it to touch the ribs of the horse.
These spurs date from the First World War when horses were heavily used in battle and for transport.