These breeches were worn by Nelson (1758-1805) when he was mortally wounded at the Battle of Trafalgar. There are blood stains to the knees and seat that probably belong to Mr John Scott, Nelson's secretary, who was killed earlier in the battle. The breeches were cut by surgeon's scissors so they could be easily removed.

The breeches are of white twill woven wool with a napped finish and feature a flap front. At the back of the breeches is a white linen gusset that was used to adjust the fit. This was done with linen tying tapes that were passed through eyelets on either side of the gusset. They were secured at the knee with four small gilt brass flag officer's buttons and small brass buckles.