Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Sutlej 1845-46, for Aliwal 1846, 1 clasp, Sobraon (Corpl. John Bolton 16th. Lancers) with top silver riband bar, edge bruising and contact marks, nearly very fine £400-£500

Provenance: Clive Nowell Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, June 2009.

John Bolton was born in St. Martin’s, London, in 1816 and attested for the 16th Lancers at Bow Street, London, on 10 May 1835. He ‘served throughout the campaign in Afghanistan 1838-39, at the capture of Ghuznee (Medal), and served in the action at Maharajpoor in December 1843 (Star). Promoted Corporal on 4 December 1843, he ‘served at Aliwal in January 1846 (Medal) and at Sobraon in February 1846 (clasp)’. Promoted Sergeant on 26 July 1853, he was discharged on 16 August 1859, after 24 years and 93 days’ service. His conduct was ‘that of a very good soldier, and he was awarded the gratuity and Good Conduct Medal for Long and Meritorious Service.’ (recipient’s service records refer). He died as an in-pensioner on 19 April 1877.

The Battle of Aliwal, on 28 January 1846, was the scene of the spectacular charge of the 16th Lancers. Sold together with two books related to the Charge of the 16th Lancers at Aliwal, Lancers Charge!, by W. J. Gould; and All for a Shilling a Day, by D. F. Featherstone; and other copied research.