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Auction: 24112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 93

China 1856-60, 2 clasp, Taku Forts 1860, Pekin 1860 (Jas Farley. 67th Regt), heavy contact wear overall, contact marks, nearly very fine

James Farley was born at Kinnagad, Westmeath, Ireland, in 1841 and enlisted with the 67th (South Hampshire) Regiment of Foot in 1859 with the service number 441. The next year the Regiment was stationed in China as part of the British force safeguarding the treaty signed in 1858, the Chinese rejected the ultimatum laid down within this treaty and war recommenced on 28 March.

An attack was ordered on the Taku Forts which the British had failed to take the previous year and the 67th went in as part of the second Division. They made repeated attempts on the wall, being thrown back every time until Lieutenant Burslem and Private Lane managed to force an opening. Swiftly followed in by Ensign Chaplin and the colours the Regiment managed to gain a foothold on the walls and seized the upper fort.

For their contribution to the action they received four Victoria Crosses awarded directly to the Regiment with another being awarded to Andrew FitzGibbon, a Hospital Assistant attached to them. They were further present at the Battle of Palikao which opened the way for the capture of Peking.

Farley remained with the Regiment in China for over four years before being posted to India for a year and from thence to 'British Burmah' where he remained for three years. After 18 years of service he was discharged in 1877 having served overseas for slightly over 9 years; sold together with copied service papers and medal roll.

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Sold for
£220

Starting price
£140