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Auction: 25112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 321

The campaign pair awarded to Sergeant H. Robertston, 42nd Highlanders (The Black Watch), who served in the famous double-V.C. Maylah Ghat action of 15 January 1859, when a gallant band of 37 under Captain Lawson held off 2,000 rebels - from sunrise to sunset - who had crossed the Sarda River, the border between Oude and Rohilcund - it might be considered the 'Rorke's Drift' of the Indian Mutiny and such be counted in the great defences

Indian Mutiny 1857-59, 1 clasp, Lucknow (H. Robertson, 42nd Rl. Highlanders.); Army L.S. & G.C., V.R., small letter reverse (1094. Serjt. H. Robertson, 91st Foot.), both with silver riband bars, very fine (2)

Hugh Robertson was born at Fintry, Stirling in 1835 and joined the 42nd Highlanders in June 1853, a cotton spinner by trade. He landed in India in November 1857 and his original Account & Service Book gives confirmation:

'Indian Medal & clasp for Lucknow.

In action at Mayla Ghat on the Surdah with No. 6 Company 42nd Royal Highland Regiment "The Black Watch" on the 15th January 1859, under the Command of Capt. Wm. Lawson.

No. 6 Company was only 37 men, the Rebels 2,000. The enemy was kept at bay for 15 hours and eventually repulsed with great loss.

Lord Clyde complimented the Company as being a pattern of Valor & discipline.

Sir R. Walpole in his Despatch says it is impossible to speak in too high praise of the way of the small band of the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment boldly led by Capt. Lawson.'

Privates Walter Cook & Duncan Millar took a Victoria Cross for their troubles, a remarkable double award of the decoration for such a small band.

Robertson himself remained in the service and transferred to the 91st (Argyllshire Highlanders) Regiment of Foot and was discharged in August 1876. It was noted he intended to live at Stirling Castle.

Sold together with his original Service & Account Book, a remarkable survivor confirming his participation in this legendary action.

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Sold for
£7,000

Starting price
£950