Full medal write up
SOUTH AFRICA 1877-9, CLASP 1877-8-9 ’52. PTE T. MARTIN, 90TH FOOT’
Thomas Martin attested for 90th Foot on 14 August 1873. He served in South Africa during the Frontier Wars of 1877-8 and served with 2 Squadron Imperial Mounted Infantry from September 1878, serving throughout the Zulu War with them until sometime between July and September 1879. He was discharged on 20 November 1885 having spent an unknown period in the Reserve, although medal roll notes he had been discharged by the time the South Africa medal was issued, which suggests he was discharged circa 1880 and then to the Reserve.
Commanded by Captain Percy Barrow, 19th Hussars, the 120 strong 2 Squadron Imperial Mounted Infantry served with Pearson’s Column during the first invasion of Zululand. On crossing into Zululand, the squadron was immediately involved in scouting and harassing Zulu scouts. They were present at the battle of Inyezene and the initial occupation of Eshowe , before all the mounted troops were sent back to the border by Pearson. Continuing patrolling work for the next few months, they re crossed into Zululand and took part in the relief of Eshowe, taking part in the battle of Gingindlovu on 2 April 1879. At the later battle, the squadron were conspicuous for the part they played and lead the ruthless pursuit of the defeated Zulu army. Further taking part in the relief of Eshowe and the attack of Prince Dabulamanzi’s homestead, they formed part of the 1st Division during the advance on Ulundi.
During the Zulu War, 2 Squadron Imperial Mounted Infantry formed part of a small mounted contingent under the overall command of Captain Barrow, which included the Natal Volunteer units; Natal Hussars, Stanger Mounted Rifles, Victoria Mounted Rifles, Alexandria Mounted Rifles, Durban Mounted Rifles and during the second invasion, the Natal Volunteers Guides, a unit formed from volunteers from the last mentioned units.
32 Officers and men from the 90th Foot served with 2 Squadron Mounted Infantry during the Zulu War, which was predominately composed of men from the 90th, 2/24th and 99th Regiments.
Condition GVF, small pawnbrokers mark to obverse field. A scarce medal to a 90th soldier who served with 2 Squadron Mounted Infantry during the Zulu War.