Historical reference: Do not rely on this information. It is very old. About this collection
Gendarmes (French, "men-at-arms"), originally a body of French cavalr}7, first enrolled in the reign of Charles VII. The name has been transferred to the French police force, which dates from the year 1790. The gendarmerie forms a part of the regular army, and includes both mounted and unmounted soldiers, usually selected from other corps on account of their superior character and ability.