The 185th (Cape Breton Highlanders) Battalion, CEF was a unit in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War. Based in Broughton, Nova Scotia, the unit began recruiting during the winter of 1915/16 throughout Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. After sailing to England in October 1916, the battalion was absorbed into the 17th Reserve Battalion on February 15, 1918. The 185th (Cape Breton Highlanders) Battalion, CEF had one officer commanding: Lieutenant-Colonel Frank Parker Day.
In 1920 the perpetuation of the battalion was assigned to the Cape Breton Highlanders.
The 185th (Cape Breton Highlanders) Battalion, CEF was authorized on 15 July 1916 and embarked for Great Britain on 12 October 1916. There it provided reinforcements for the Canadian Corps in the field until 15 February 1918, when its personnel were absorbed by the 17th Reserve Battalion, CEF. The battalion was subsequently disbanded on 29 November 1918.
Meek, John F. Over the Top! The Canadian Infantry in the First World War. Orangeville, Ont.: The Author, 1971.