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Auction: 24113 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 95

South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (29/1800. Pte. R. Pyke. 58th Foot.), light obverse scratches and very minor edge wear, otherwise good very fine

Richard Pyke was born in Torrington, Devon and attested at Exeter with the 34th Brigade on 15 February 1878 at age 19 after having earned his living as a labourer. Within just a few days, however, he was transferred to the 58th Regiment of Foot serving in the 29th Brigade. Pyke had his first overseas posting almost exactly a year after his attestation, and was sent to South Africa in February 1879 to serve in the Zulu campaign. He remained in South Africa until 5 May 1881, during which time he also served in the Boer campaign and was appointed Lance Corporal on 28 January.

From South Africa, Pyke embarked for Mauritius where he was later advanced Corporal on 5 December. He remained in Mauritius until being again stationed in South Africa on 19 November 1883. Once again finding himself in South Africa, Pyke was promoted Sergeant on 8 April 1883 and the next year was married in Cape Town to Harriett May Fogedy on 9 June 1884. Shortly after his marriage on 27 August, he extended his service to complete 12 years with the Colours.

Pyke continued his overseas service, being posted next to China from South Africa on 15 September 1885. He remained in China until finally returning home on 3 January 1888, having spent much of the last decade of his life serving abroad. He was posted to Northampton on 20 May 1888 and there on 21 January 1890, Pyke re-engaged to complete 21 years' service with the Colours. He was finally discharged on 21 July 1896 at his own request after serving for over 18 years; sold together with copied service papers which note his entitlement.

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Sold for
£1,300

Starting price
£280