| Place | Africa: South Africa |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL36902 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Cotton drill |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | South Africa |
| Date made | 1901 |
| Conflict |
South Africa, 1899-1902 (Boer War) |
Boer War Christmas greeting and gift : Trooper W Alexander
Description
Boer War Christmas greeting and gift. It comprises a patch of khaki fabric with a drawing of crossed flags and the inscription 'BOER WAR 1901 S.A', and a greeting written on a piece of paper which reads 'this is the only christmas card I have to send/ Torn from my coat I send to thee/ A piece of old war worn khaki/ With luck and love from me alone/ To thee dear Cousin in your dear home.'.
History / Summary
This Christmas gift and greeting was sent by Trooper William Alexander to his cousin, also named William Alexander, in 1901 from South Africa. The donor believed the gift is associated with 138 William G Alexander Australian Commonwealth Horse (NSW). However there were only two troopers by this name in South Africa during Christmas 1901. They were 1528 William Alexander 3 NSW Mounted Rifles and 1261 William John Alexander.