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








On 5 April 1901 , just north of Smaldeel Siding
Derailed train. Rail removed. 4 men slightly injured.
2nd Batt Seaforth Highlanders.
( Treinvernielers by Tuan Schutte and Pete Coetzee, page 355)