Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

New Zealand 1845-66, reverse dated 1863 to 1866 (146. Corpl. John Heagerty, 50th Qn’s Own Regt.) officially impressed naming, light contact marks, otherwise very fine £400-£500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of New Zealand War Medals.

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John Heagerty was born in the Parish of Birr, King’s County, and originally attested for the 47th Regiment at Templemore on 7 April 1855, aged 14 years 3 months. At the age of 16, although still under age, he transferred to the 50th Regiment on 1 March 1857, and joined the regiment in Ceylon where he served for 6 years 1 month. During this period he was appointed Drummer in December 1857 and attained the age of 18 on 9 January 1859. Heagerty was promoted to Corporal in December 1862, but one year later was reduced to Private for being drunk. The 50th Regiment arrived in New Zealand from Ceylon in 1863, being present at the battle of Hairini in Waikato. In 1864 it was sent to Wanganui and fought at Nukumaru, and was involved in Chute’s march. Heagerty was promoted to Corporal again in June 1867, the regiment being now in Australia, and to Sergeant in February 1870, having recently arrived home in England. In January 1874 he was reduced to Private for neglect of duty but immediately restored to the rank of Corporal. He was appointed Lance-Sergeant in April 1876 and promoted Sergeant in July 1876. He was finally discharged at Maidstone on 19 November 1878.

Sold with copied discharge papers and a detailed biography of his military service.