Orders, Decorations and Medals

An unusual Boer War C.M.G. pair awarded to Mr T. J. M. Macfarlane, Natal Guides

The Order of St. Michael and St. George, C.M.G., breast badge, silver-gilt and enamels, complete with ribbon buckle and contained in its Garrard case of issue; Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Tugela Heights, Relief of Ladysmith (Serjt. T. J. M. Macfarlane, Natal Guides) nearly extremely fine (2) £600-700

Mentioned in Lord Roberts’ despatch dated 4 September 1901 and in General Buller’s final despatch which stated: “Early in the war a corps of guides was formed in Natal from colonists with local knowledge of the districts in which our forces were operating. These gentlemen rendered the greatest possible assistance. Foremost in every fight, always ready to undertake difficult or dangerous duties, they helped me equally in field operations, with supply, with transport, and in dealing with the Dutch inhabitants. To the Hon. T. K. Murray, C.M.G., at first, and latterly to Mr F. Struben, who were in charge, my principal thanks are due; but I am equally indebted to many others, among whom I must mention Mr F. Knight, the brothers Loxton, the brothers Alison, the brothers Whipp, the brothers Robinson, Mr Foster, Mr Macfarlane, Mr Godson, and Mr Otto Schwikkard, whose wonderful energy and great knowledge of transport details were invaluable.”

Macfarlane and three other members of the Natal Guides all received the C.M.G., whilst nine Guides were awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.

Thomas John Malcolm Macfarlane was born on 11 July 1859, son of John Macfarlane, Resident Magistrate at Weenen, Natal. He was an Associate Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers and served during the war in South Africa 1899-1900 with the Natal Guides (despatches, C.M.G.). His wife, Agnes, who he married in 1893, was the daughter of Walter Macfarlane, late Speaker of the Legislative Council of Natal.