Queens South Africa Medal clasps Cape Colony, Paardeberg, Driefontein (3948 PTE. E. GILLIATT. 10TH HUSSARS)
Edwin Gilliatt Burnett, for such were his full names, enlisted for service with the 10th Hussars and saw service in the Anglo Boer War in South Africa with them, taking part in the epic battles of Paardeberg and Driefontein in early 1900 before succumbing to Enteric Fever at Rensburg outside Bloemfontein on 11 April 1900.
A Printer by trade, Burnett was known by his second name, Gilliatt, and hailed from Barton-on-Humber. The Hull Daily Mail of 4 June 1900 contained a poignant insert which read thus:
"Supposed Death of a Local Soldier at the War - Although no official information has been received there seems to be little reason to doubt that Private Gilliatt (3948), 10th Royal Hussars, had died in Bloemfontei Hospital. Three letters sent to him by a friend, Mr William Garton, have been returned unopened, and officially marked "Deceased."
The last letter received from him is dated April 7th, from the Hospital. He says: "My bones are touchimg one another, and no wonder, my temperature has been 104 for days." Deceased was a Printer by trade, havng served his apprenticeship with H.W. Ball, Market Lane. He was attached to General French's Division, and had been in several engagements, twice having his horse shot dead under him."
The fact that he had died became evident in an article in the Hull Times on 18 August 1900 - it read as follows:
"Burnett - At Rensburg, South Africa, of eneteric fever. Trooper Edwin Gilliatt Burnett, of 10th Royal Hussars, aged 22 years, fifth son of Mr W and Mrs Burnett of the Waterworks, Barton-on-Humber. Deeply mourned."
Medal is in good condition unless otherwise indicated. Sold with some research.
