Three: Corporal J. Howe, 43rd (Monmouthshire Light Infantry) Regiment of Foot

South Africa 1834-53 (John How [sic]. 43rd. Regt.); Indian Mutiny 1857-59 (Corpl. John How [sic], 43rd. Lt. infy.); New Zealand 1845-66, reverse undated (1959 John Howe, 43rd. Foot.) edge bruising and contact marks to first, this good fine, the remainder very fine (3) £1,000-£1,400

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Medals - The Property of a Gentleman.

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John Howe, a shoemaker by trade, was born in the Parish of Leamore, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, Ireland, on 3 November 1825. He enlisted in the 43rd Regiment as an under-age Private soldier on his 17th birthday, 3 November 1842, and witnessed two years and three months of active service in South Africa in operations against Chief Sandilli who was blockading Fort Cox in Kaffraria. Following intermittent but severe fighting, the rebel Kaffirs were driven into the mountains until they sued for peace under Chief Moshesh and Chief Mocomo on 20 December 1852. Peace was proclaimed on 12 March 1853; 592 Medals were awarded to the Regiment.

Transferred to India as Corporal for the following ten years, Howe witnessed his Regiment being heavily engaged in the suppression of the Mutiny. Sent to New Zealand from December 1863 to March 1866, his Army Service Record notes a lapse in conduct and character when arrested for being drunk on duty; imprisoned and Court Martialed, he was reduced from Sergeant to Private on 12 October 1863. Sent back to England, Howe was discharged at Portsmouth at his own request ‘free’ and with pension for 22 years’ service. He subsequently returned home to Ireland.

Sold with copied service record and medal roll extract.