A SCARCE VICTORIA CROSS CABINET CARD OF LIEUTENANT LORD EDRIC GIFFORD, 24TH FOOT SHAKING HANDS WITH GENERAL WOLSELEY. GIFFORD WAS AWARDED THE VICTORIA CROSS FOR ACTIONS DURING THE THIRD ANGLOASHANTI WAR, IN THE TAKING OF BECQUAH.

“For his gallant conduct during the operations, and especially at the taking of Becquah. The Officer commanding the Expeditionary Force reports that Lord Gifford was in charge of the Scouts after the Army crossed the Prah,’ and that it is no exaggeration to say that since the Adansi Hills were passed, he daily carried his life in his hand in the performance of his most dangerous duties. He hung upon the rear of the enemy, discovering their position, and ferreting out their intentions. With no other white man with him, he captured numerous prisoners; but Sir Garnet Wolseley brings Him forward for this mark of Royal favour most especially for his conduct at the taking of Becquah, into which place he penetrated with his scouts before the troops carried it, when his gallantry and courage were most conspicuous”.

Edric Frederick Gifford (1849-1911) was born on 5th July 1849 at Ampney Park, near Cirencester, Gloucestershire. He was the eldest son of Robert Francis, 2nd Baron Gifford, and of the Honourable Frederica Charlotte, eldest daughter of 1st Baron Fitzhardinge. His brother was Maurice Gifford, CMG, who raised "Gifford's Horse" in the Second Matabele War. He was educated at Harrow, and entered the Army in 1869. He became a Lieutenant in the 62nd in 1872, and later that year, succeeded his father as the 3rd Baron Gifford……….

The above taken from the fine vconline website:

http://www.vconline.org.uk/edric-f-gifford-vc/4586770660.html

A scarce original period VC recipient Cabinet Card.