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Auction: 21003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 179

(x) Pair: Private H. Saviour, Shropshire Light Infantry

Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Cape Colony, Paardeberg, Driefontein, Johannesburg (5714 Pte H. Saviour, 2nd Shropshire Li. Infy.); King's South Africa 1901-1902, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (5714 Pte. H. Saviour, Shrops: L. I.), edge bruising, minor contact marks to both, very fine (2)

Henry Saviour was born in 1880 at Shrewsbury, Shropshire, the son of Robert Saviour. He lived with his family at 4 Newpark Terrace, Shrewsbury, He worked as a Carpenter and served with the 1st King's Shropshire Light Infantry Volunteer Battalion until 26 August 1898. At this point Saviour attested with the 2nd Battalion, Shropshire Light Infantry at Portsmouth. The Battalion was soon posted to South Africa, sailing on 7 November 1899 and formed part of the army intended to relieve Kimberley. In the process they were engaged at Paardeberg, suffering around 50 casualties in the battle - and again at Thoba Mountain, where a young Winston Churchill noted their bravery in taking and holding an important position. During the guerrilla phase of the conflict they were involved in a number of engagements, notably on 1 November 1900 when they joined General Smith-Dorrien for an attack on Witkloof. This attack was called off before it began, but in retiring the column came under attack and the Shropshire Light Infantry were particularly noted in the rear-guard for their gallant behaviour. Saviour returned to Britain on 3 July 1902 and was discharged on 22 September.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£320

Starting price
£190