Orders, Decorations and Medals

Seven: Captain William Lister, Gordon Highlanders

Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Elandslaagte, Defence of Ladysmith, Laing’s Nek, Belfast (1142 Q.M. Sgt., Gordon Highrs.); King’s South Africa, 2 clasps (1142 Q.M. Serjt., Gordon Highrs.); 1914-15 Star (Q.M. & Lieut., Gord. Highrs.); British War and Victory Medals (Q.M. & Capt.); Army L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (1142 C.Sjt., Gordon Hdrs.); Meritorious Service Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Col/Sjt., Gordon Highrs.) contact marks to the earlier medals, very fine or better (7) £240-280

William Lister was born at Ceres, Fife, on 22 August 1867, and enlisted into the Gordon Highlanders in 1883, serving with the 2nd battalion until 1902. During this time he served in India 1898-99, and South Africa 1899-1902. In 1902 he was posted to the 6th battalion and served with them until discharged with the rank of Colour Sergeant in 1908. He re-enlisted in September 1914, as a Private in the 8th Gordons. On 12 September 1914, he was promoted to Company Sergeant Major in the 9th Gordons, and on 18 September was promoted to Regimental Sergeant Major. Three days later, on 21 September, he was commissioned Quarter-Master and Lieutenant in the 10th Gordons. He went to France on 8 July 1915 and served during the War with the Gordons, the Camerons, the Seaforths, and the London Scottish. Two of his sons served in France, one being awarded the D.C.M. and commissioned into the 3rd Dragoon Guards, the other being killed at Loos having been twice previously wounded. Sold with further research.