TOPIC:

Hi Forum members

I have recently acquired a 9ct small gold medal, enscribed to Fireman W Fincham, and dated 5th April 1901.

I also see that W Fincham was a member of the Imperial Military Railways.

Can a forum member help me to figure out why this medal was awarded to Fincham ?

Thanks

Adrian

Adrian,

What a wonderful item.

Can I ask if there's anything on the reverse?

With thanks
David

Hi David

Sorry, the reverse appears exactly the same without any engraving.

A rumour from the seller is that it relates to an incident in the Orange Free State, but whether that is correct, I am not sure at all.

A Driver Fincham was involved in a train accident at Graaf-Reinet on 1 January 1924. But that may not be the same man at all.
There is a death notice in the Cape Archives for W Fincham dated 1901 ? I have no contact to obtain that as yet.
WO 100/252 has records for W Fincham and W R Fincham for the Imperial Military Railways . I am waiting to see whether the first name or only the initials are given.




Regards

Adrian

Adrian

Check the casualty rolls - any will do but I recommend a certain one

Stoker Fincham [no initial] IMR injured slightly Smaldeel April 5 1901.

I think this is your man - a number of soldiers were killed and injured in a train accident at Smaldeel on this day. I don't think the Boers were involved.

Regards
Meurig

Hi Meurig

I really appreciate your help, you have found my man , and I am a happy chappy!

I understand from the wink, that there must be a special casualty roll you recommend. Which is it, and how do I get it for the future ? Is it yours ?

Regards

Adrian

Hi Forum

Now that I know Smaldeel was the scene of the accident, here aare 3 extracts from newspapers relating to it.

They are from the Dundee Courier, 11 April 1901, the Aberdeen Journal 13 April 1901, and the Lincolnshire Echo, 20 May 1901.

Regards

Adrian