Description
Queen’s South Africa, 3 bars, Cape Colony, OFS, Tvl, 70 Trooper Henry Hughes O’Neill, B Division South African Constabulary, who died during the war at Rustenberg.
Officially impressed: “70 3rd Cl. Tpr: H. H. O’Neill. S.A.C.”
Confirmed on the medal roll. SA 1901 and SA 1902 were set on loose later and never attached.
With detailed full set of his SAC service papers.
During the war, Trooper O’Neill died of disease at Rustenberg, on 4th January 1902.
The SAC went all around England, Scotland and Ireland recruiting adventurous men for the constabulary.
Henry was a Dairyman and Farm Bailiff from Winchester, he signed on at the Temprorary Recruiting Office at Clarence Barracks in Portsmouth on 18th January 1901.
He was about 21 years old and about 144 lbs at the time. Born 5th April 1879.
Posted to No 1 Troop B Division on 1st August 1901.
His Next of king was recalled as Sailor Frank O’Neill of HMS Royal Oak.
His detailed set of records has his riding and shooting certificate, and service details, even including the proceeds and distribution of his possession via auction upon his death including who bought what and for how much. He was said to be a “Good” Rider and “Fair” Shot.
Sent back home was his purse, pocket book and letters.
They also include his 2 letters of recommendation one reads:
“I have known Henry O’Neill for the past 15 months and have always found him to be a steady, straightforward, hardworking man. I also know him to be a fairly good shot.”
