Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Pair: Sergeant R. Bland, 34th Regiment

Indian Mutiny 1857-59, 1 clasp, Lucknow (R, Bland. 34th Regt.); Army L.S. & G.C., V.R., 3rd issue, small letter reverse (4309. Sergt. R. Bland, 34th Foot) edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine or better (2) £400-£500

Richard Bland was born in Lancaster and attested for the 34th Regiment at Preston on 10 December 1855, aged 15 years, a weaver by trade. He served as a Boy, under age, until appointed as a Private on 1 April 1857. He was appointed Drummer on 1 July but reverted to Private on 6 October 1857, and remained ‘under age’ until 10 December 1858. Promoted to Corporal in July 1861, he was tried and reduced to Private in February 1862. He re-engaged on 11 September 1867, being promoted to Corporal in February 1868, and to Sergeant on 11 August 1867. Despite his previous misdemeanour he was awarded the L.S. & G.C. medal with £5 gratuity on 1 May 1879. Sergeant Bland was discharged at Carlisle on 3 February 1880, having served a total of 21 years 56 days, including 6 years 5 months in India; he served a further 14 days before joining the Staff of the 1st Royal Lancaster Militia. His discharge papers relate that ‘he is in possession of the Medal for long service and good conduct, and the Indian Mutiny Medal and clasp for Lucknow.’

Sold with copied discharge papers.