Full medal write up
AFGHANISTAN 1878, 3 CLASPS, CHARASIA, KABUL, KANDAHAR ‘1610. PTE. H. BUCHANAN. 92ND. HIGHRS.’
David Buchanan, a 22 year old Rope Spinner from Barony, Glasgow, enlisted into the 92nd (Gordon) Highlanders on 29 August 1867 and took part in the Afghan campaign of 1878-80. He later took part in the 1st Boer War of 1880-81.
Private Buchanan was wounded in the action at Majuba Hill on 27 February 1881. His service papers stating:
“Gunshot wound right arm, February 27th 1881 at Majuba’.
The battle of Majuba Hill on 27 February 1881 was the final and decisive battle of the First Boer War, that resulted in a resounding victory for the Boers. Having occupied Majuba Hill on the night of 26-27 February, Major-General Sir George Pomeroy Colley’s force of some 405 men - comprising 171 men of the 58th Regiment of Foot, 141 men of the 92nd Highlanders, as well as a small naval brigade from H.M.S. Dido - were not properly dug in, and were unable to withstand the three Boer storming parties the following morning. Colley himself was killed by a Boer marksman, and total British casualties were 92 killed, 134 wounded, and 59 captured. The 92nd Highlanders suffered 34 all ranks killed in action, with 12 subsequently dying of wounds, and 52 all ranks wounded.
https://www.britishbattles.com/first-boer-war/battle-of-majuba-hill/
Private Buchanan was invalided out of service at Netley (hospital) on 30 August 1881. His conduct noted as ‘very good’. He was entitled to the Afghan medal with 3 clasps and the Kabul to Khandahar Star.
Note Initial ‘H’ incorrectly but officially engraved, which is not particularly unusual. Number and rank correct and only one Private Buchanan on the roll. Casualty details confirmed on both service papers and casualty return.
Condition VF, a little wear from Star, slight bend in suspension resulting in small crack at right pin. Dark toning, sold with copy service pages and casualty return.
A scarce Majuba casualty.