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Auction: 20001 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - conducted behind closed doors
Lot: 255

British War Medal 1914-20 (Sister F. Spindler. Nyasaland F.F.), edge knock, good very fine

[R.R.C.] London Gazette 3 June 1919.

Florence Rebecca Spindler served in East Central Africa from 14 May 1917, additionally being entitled to a Victory Medal and Royal Red Cross 1st Class for services in East Africa whilst attached to the Nyasaland Medical Service.

Pre-war Spindler played a part in saving the life of a young girl from drowning in the Canoe Lake at Southsea (Portsmouth Evening News, 19 April 1904 refers) and after service in East Africa married a Mr. Andrew Wilson M.C., late Lieutenant 1st King's African Rifles, the local newspaper announcing the event with the enthusiastically-titled: 'An African Romance at Swansea' (South Wales Weekly Post, 25 October 1919 refers).

Additionally it appears that the thereafter-known Mrs. Spindler authored a book entitled Barney's Own Tale about a dog in East Africa, the preface stating:

'The incidents so simply recorded in this little story are those which actually happened in the life of a dog. It has been written in the spare moments of a busy life and was originally intended for the interest and amusement of my small son.

At the request of several friends it is now in print. It is hoped that anyone who may be kind enough to read it, will, through these pages be led to a greater interest and realisation of the possibilities of Africa and the characteristics of its people.
That it may serve as a reminder of the unselfish devotion shown by the natives of that country in the cause of the Great War.

Specially do I wish to keep in the mind of my son the remembrance of the sacrifice and service so freely given by his father-M.C., late King's African Rifles, and as its consequence, the years of strain which followed. Inasmuch, in not forgetting this he will possess a kindliness of heart, sympathy, love and consideration for all those, who, as his father, did likewise.'


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Sold for
£130

Starting price
£40