| Place | Africa: South Africa |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL/01758 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Linen |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | United Kingdom |
| Date made | c 1899 |
| Conflict |
South Africa, 1899-1902 (Boer War) |
Souvenir handkerchief : The Absent-Minded Beggar appeal
Description
White linen handkerchief. Printed in blue is the text of the poem 'The Absent-Minded Beggar' by Rudyard Kipling and the music from the score written by Sir Arthur Sullivan. On the top left corner is an image of Lord Roberts, while on the bottom right is an image of Queen Victoria above a scroll that reads "GOD SAVE THE QUEEN". In the centre right of the handkerchief is a map depicting the Orange Free State, Transvaal and Natal.
History / Summary
In 1899 Rudyard Kipling wrote the poem 'The Absent-Minded Beggar' to raise money for the war in South Africa. This was done as part of an appeal organised by the Daily Mail. The poem was accompanied by a musical score that was written by Sir Arthur Sullivan. As part of the appeal the Daily Mail produced these handkerchief's. The appeal was a great success and managed to raise over 250,000 pounds.