Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 23112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 148

An 'Siege of Ladysmith' casualty's Q.S.A. awarded to Private G. Kingham, 1st Battalion, Devonshire Regiment, who survived the Battalion's baptism of fire at Elandslaagte only to die of disease at Ladysmith

Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Elandslaagte, Defence of Ladysmith (3555 Pte G Kingham, Devon: Regt), good very fine

George Kingham saw service with the 1st Battalion, Devonshire Regiment on the North-West Frontier being there for the expeditions of 1897-98 and the Tirah expedition (Medal and clasps). Later posted to South Africa he was present here with the Battalion on the outbreak of the Boer War. Kingham saw heavy fighting at the Battle of Elandslaagte, where the Devons displayed great steadfastness in advancing through heavy Boer fire to close with the bayonet.

Kingham survived the fighting and was one of those who remained in Ladysmith to defend the town from the advancing Boers. It is not known if he participated in the other famous regimental action, the charge at Waggon Hill as he had contracted what his records refer to as a 'local disease'. The official casualty roll states 'Died Diarrhoea on 11/04/1900' a sad end to a soldier who had survived such fierce fighting; sold together with copied research comprising casualty rolls, medal roll and Registry of effects.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£480

Starting price
£110