The Boer War field glasses of L.Cpl. Walker S.N.H.

 A pair of cased field glasses by one of the worlds best optic makers, Ross of London. One tube engraved "S.N.H.", the other with the issue number of "66". The case lid stamped "S.N.H.", and the base with the same issue number of "66". Also written at the base of the case, "Cpl.Walker". The writing now a  little faded, but the full lettering can be made out when held against angles of light. The set remains in excellent overall condition. 


It would be interesting to know when the South Notts Hussars acquired these field glasses, and how many. With this one being number 66, maybe it was the case that every man was issued a set, or maybe just the Officers and N.C.O.s. Were they may be purchased by the South Notts Hussars in their preparations to embarch for South Africa, field glasses being of much use for mounted troops in the vast expanses of land across the South African landscape. 

George Walker was born in the Parish St Marys Nottingham in 1879. His address at the time of joining the South Notts Hussars was 7, Alfred Terrace, Abbotsford Street, Nottingham. A Butcher by trade, he attested for the Imperial Yeomanry, South Notts Hussars 21st January 1901 at the age of 22 years and 3 months, and was given the number, Trooper 20311. His attestation was approved by Colonel Rolleston on the 26th January 1901 in Nottingham. Detailed to join the 12 th Company, Imperial Yeomanry. 

George Walker was promoted to Lance Corporal.  It is not entirely clear when this was. The Historical Records of the South Nottinghamshire Hussars Yeomanry stated this to have been 7th May 1901 while still on active service. There are other inconsistencies in this record also. It gives his name as 20311 E. Walker, not G. Walker. He is, however, the only Lance Corporal Walker on the Nominal Roll. His short service states he was promoted to Lance Corporal 2nd October 1901. 

Possibly he was given the set of field glasses on his promotion, or maybe they were already in his possession, and he proudly wrote on his new rank. Walker returned to England with the Regiment 6th August 1902. Discharged from service with the 12th Company Imperial Yeomanry at Aldershot 30th August 1902 after a service period of one 1 year and 222 days. His conduct and character while with the Colours was recorded as "very good". 

On the 14th May 1905, the annual church parade was held at the South Notts Hussars regimental church of St. Mary's. Colonel Rolleston on this day took the opportunity when the  Regiment had returned to the Market Place to present long service medals to thirty five members of the Regiment. This included Corporal Walker. 






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