In 1875 the British Army recognised the need for Mounted Infantry detachments. The first ‘School of Instruction’ was established at Aldershot, and training was in progress by 1888.

In 1896 the Highland Company of Mounted Infantry composed of detachments drawn from The Black Watch, The Seaforth Highlanders, The Gordons and the Argylls was formed at Aldershot. This company formed part of the force sent to quell unrest in Matabeleland in 1896.