TOPIC:

We've all seen them. This one comes from a medal roll, but what does it refer to and, more to the point, where would one find the source documentation for them?

Rory,

I am not sure of the answer but it would seem that this number is a document reference, presumably maintained by the War Office, that contains the authority that was consulted to make or withhold an award. We see the number in other places too. The Important Decision Book ( www.angloboerwar.com/forum/15-important-decisions-book ) collated these queries and decisions into one place so that those going through the roles could make a decision more quickly.

Here is an example for the Natal Police:



68 is probably the category of query eg medal entitlement. SA is South Africa. 6962 is presumably the incrementing reference number.

I have never seen this source item, presumably a large set of documents containing the correspondence related to the query and the decision that generated the reference number to be assigned. It would no doubt be a fascinating volume to read.

So, in answer to your question, these references are unknown except for those listed in the Important Decision Book.

Once precedence had been set, the reference number was added to the roll to justify the award or withholding in individual cases,

That is my theory about this reference number. What do others think?

A different form of authorisation we also see on medals roll is the AG2 number ( www.angloboerwar.com/other-information/9...ory/2981-ag2-numbers ). We see this where a man or woman is listed on more than one roll. the AG2 number connects the rolls together and can confirm clasp entitlement and may indicate which unit issued the medal. All rolls have one AG2 number and some have many as each supplement could be given a different AG2 reference. The AG2 reference appears in a stamp on the first page of a roll or supplemental set of pages. An example from the Cape Garrison Artillery, AG2/M/1637:



Best wishes
David

That would make sense David. I wonder where these records are stored and if they will ever come to light.