The Royal Scots have the proud distinction of being the oldest regiment in the British Army, dating its present existence from 1633. It was organised by Sir John Hepburn, and on his death 37 years later the command was given to Lord James Douglas and became known as "Douglas's Regiment." Nobly has it sustained its reputation, and in every quarter of the globe, the roll of "Dumbarton's Drums" has been heard.

"Pontius Pilate's Bodyguard" is the extraordinary nickname given to the regiment. This was on account of a dispute between the regiment (then the "Regiment de Douglas," or "Douglas Ecossais") when in the French service, and the Picardy Regiment, as to the antiquity of the two corps. The Picardy Regiment laid claim to having been on duty on the night after the Crucifixion. To this the 1st Foot wittily rejoined: "Had we been on duty, we should not have slept at our post."