Code: 12252
An interesting Boer War period Presentation Sword to an officer of the Durham Artillery.
The scabbard has been engraved with a presentation inscription, which reads: "Presented to Lt R.G.M. Johnson from his brother officers July 1901"
The sword of Major Richard George Mann Johnson.
I suspect this sword was a parting gift from those officers who weren't selected as part of the service company the Durham Artillery sent for overseas duty in South Africa.
Their faith in their brother officer was well placed. Only a few weeks later, Lieutenant-General Neville Lyttelton recommended Lt R.G.M. Johnson for the Distinguished Service Order for his gallantry whilst in command of a Sangar, where the brunt of the attack fell, during the defence of Fort Prospect, Zululand, on the 26th of September 1901. Several of the men under his command were also recommended for the DCM. For some reason, these awards were later downgraded to Mentions in Despatches.
Johnson continued to serve with the Durham Artillery until 1907, when he joined the regular army. In 1910 he was promoted Captain, serving as Adjutant. In October 1914 he was promoted to Major. Sadly he was killed in August 1916, serving with "C" Battery, 162 Brigade of the Royal Field Artillery.
His CWGC entry can be viewed HERE. A rather fine portrait of him can be accessed via Marlborough College's WW1 Archive, HERE.
Plenty of scope for further research into Major Johnson's time during the Boer war, and the events surrounding his death during WW1.
The sword with regulation steel three bar hilt with a fully chequered backpiece, stepped pommel, and shagreen grip bound with silver twistwire. Some service wear to the grip.
The 35 inch single fullered blade is marked at the ricasso by the retailer "Hobson & Sons 1, 3 & 5 Lexington St London".They operated at this address as a military tailor/outfitter. Judging by the "P" proof slug, it would appear to be produced by Pillin. Numbered on the spine no. 101241.
The blade is decorated with acid etched engraving, featuring the feathered wings and lightening bolts, flaming bomb, and "Durham Artillery".
Housed in its steel dress scabbard with twin hanging rings.
Good overall condition, both sword and scabbard would benefit from a gentle clean and polish, but generally very good, untouched condition.
Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched. Please send this at the time of ordering, to prevent unnecessary delay in your order being dispatched.
