Orders, Decorations and Medals

General Orders from the ‘Siege of Mafeking’, the orders pasted into a scrap-book, 352 x 208mm., many being signed, damage to spine, wear and tear to boards and contents, some pages loose, fair condition, rare £1200-1400

This remarkable series of general orders and information notices, dating from 7 October 1899 to 28 April 1900, provides a wealth of information on the siege. Covering a wide range of subjects, including the state of the siege, other war news, deaths, commendations, courts martial, appointments, promotions, food rations, requisitions, pay, loot, etc., many of the documents being signed. One of the earliest, signed by Colonel Baden-Powell, records:

‘It is reported that a large force of Boers, under Cronje, is marching upon Mafeking from Rietfontein this day, It is advisable that every one should remain alert whether on his post at present or not’, signed Colonel Baden-Powell, 14 October 1899.

A few other documents also bear Baden-Powell’s signature, but most others are signed on his behalf by Major (Lord) E. H. Cecil, Major F. W. Panzera, Lieutenant R. Moncreiffe, Lieutenant A. Hanbury-Tracy, and others.

A small selection from the many documents:

‘Arrangements have been made by which any women with their children who care to avail themselves of the opportunity will be conveyed free of charge to Cape Town ...’, unsigned, 11 October 1899.

‘... The Boers will never come on and storm a position. They cannot possibly get in or even near the place if everyone sticks to his post and shoots straight’, signed Major E. H. Cecil, 11 October 1899.

A report on the action at Game Tree, 26 December 1899, signed by Major F. W. Panzera.

‘Mrs Poulton was unfortunately killed by a chance bullet in her house in town yesterday. ... the Colonel Commanding wishes to point out that it is against his advice that ladies and children come & live in town during the present stage of the siege....’, signed Major F. W. Panzera, 11 January 1900.

‘It is with much regret that the Colonel Commanding has to record the death, from wounds, of Sergeant Major Taylor, of the Colonial Contingent. ...’, signed ?, 6 March 1900.