TOPIC:

I'm after some expertise about sleeping arrangements on the open veldt.
In this photo of Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry, I assume the rolled object over the mens' shoulders is a bedding roll - rather than a great coat - is that correct?
If so, can anyone give me details of what a bedding roll comprised?
thanks!
Rob

Rob
From what I have read, the bedding roll as shown consisted of a waterproof sheet (rubber) and a wool blanket. I would not think that a greatcoat would be carried that way.
Do you have a time frame for that photo?
Regards
IL.

Thanks, very useful.
The photo was taken on the upper Tugela in late January 1900
Note their unorthodox kit: the bedroll is not seen on line infantry in this theatre, and the TMI have an assortment of headgear. They carry Martini Enfield Mk I rifles and P1895 spike bayonets.
Rob

Hi Rob
I agree, I don't think they are great coats.
Is it possible that the kit they are carrying are usually on their horses?
Which can be easily transferable to carry? Looks very much like a bed roll blanket.



This chap looks like he has a great coat wrapped up in front of him. I think his ground sheet / blanket may be behind him next to that goose :

Regards

Dave....

6319 Corporal Ernest Carrington OUVRY, 34th (Middlesex) Company, 11th Bn. I.Y., reckoned a mail bag was the thing to sleep in. I assume he used a blanket as well, as a single layer of canvas wouldn't have provided much warmth.
Ouvry was promoted Corporal after the action at Senekal on 25 May 1900, and acted as Battalion Signaller. He was invalided home from Harrismith, on December 2nd 1900. (See Corner, 1902, pp.104, 337 & 506).



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