Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Relief of Kimberley, Paardeberg (6510 Bomb. A. Keynton, 76th Bty. R.F.A.) toned, extremely fine £350-400

Killed in action at Paardeberg on 18 February 1900, the only man of his battery killed in an epic incident with the Boers on Kitchener’s Hill. Five men of the 76th Battery are listed as having been wounded at Paardeberg.

‘The loss of Kitchener’s Hill was a serious matter, as the hill dominated all the ground south of the Boer laager at Wolveskraal. It was strongly held by the enemy, who now placed 400 or 500 men upon it, and from it poured in a tremendous fire upon the 76th Field Battery, which was stationed on the right. Four guns of this battery fired to the south, at the hill; the other two played upon the Boer laager, receiving in return a terrible fire from one of the enemy’s “Pom-Poms.” At one gun every man was put out of action except one; he continued laying, and loading, and firing as coolly as if he was on parade, a proud and splendid sight to the armies which gazed upon his consummate bravery. “These English,” said a foreign observer, “are so enduring.” Yet this deed has passed without its due tribute; the devoted gunner’s name is unknown.’ (Extract from With the Flag to Pretoria)

Sold with an original portrait photograph.