Hello from a new guy,
Can anyone help identify the original owner(s) of a Webley No.5 revolver branded OVS on the grips?
The original holster has the names JOHN BESTER and J. HARMSE in ink on it.
The pistol was probably purchased, branded and issued well before the war (1890+/-) and issued to a OVS standing military unit. Probably the mounted border police or the artillery.
Where do I start my search here on this site?... Oh yes,,, the holster is stamped "HAMILTON COLONIAL SADDLERY" in an oval. Was that a British or African firm?
Thanks,
Doug Cooper

Hello Doug.....

Hamilton Colonial Saddlery was a Canadian Company.....

J. Harmse was a Burger who served in the Canadian Scouts.....

Not home right now will send more info later.....

Mike

Hello Mike,
I have a Webley holster by Hamilton's, I had always just assumed it was Great War period leather, now I need to find it!
Regards Frank.
QSAMIKE wrote:

Hello Doug.....

Here is the listing that I have, it may be your man.....

No there are two Harmse listed as members of the Canadian Scouts, since it is a Boer Name there may be many more.....


Harmse, C.J., Burger / NSN / 20 Aug. 1901 to 3 June 1902 / No Previous Service / QSA with Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1901 and South Africa 1902

and

Harmse, Johannes Michael, Burger / NSN / 6 Nov. 1901 to 17 May 1902 / National Scouts / QSA with Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1901 and South Africa 1902

Mike

Hello Mike,
What city was the Hamilton Colonial Saddlery in?? In the 1880's &90's I presume Hamilton..
Thanks for the info
Doug

Hello Doug.....

I think they were located in Hamilton, Ontario.....

Mike