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Auction: 25113 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 54

Indian Mutiny 1857-58, no clasp (Drumr John Harrison 37th Regt.), good very fine

John Harrison was born at Alcester, Warwickshire in 1829 and attested with the 37th Regiment of Foot at Warwick on 8 October 1846 whilst underage, he achieved the age of eighteen the next year. Harrison was to serve overseas for over 16 years, starting with 10 years and three months in Ceylon.

The 37th Regiment was posted to Ceylon in 1846 and the next year saw service in the suppression of the Matele Revolt. Despite large numbers of supporters, the rebels were poorly armed and did not pose the well-equipped regulars much trouble.

They moved to India in 1857 and saw action in the Indian Mutiny, with a large number being present for the first relief expedition towards Arrah in July 1857. This ad-hoc force was cut to pieces by a mutineer ambush on the way to the town and was forced back to British lines. Notably Ross Mangles, a civilian volunteer, was awarded the Victoria Cross for saving the life of a wounded soldier of the 37th, in spite of his own wounds.

Harrison was appointed Drummer on 9 April 1860 and as such received a medal named to the rank. He was to serve as a Drummer for the rest of his service, being posted to the Regimental Depot on 20 October 1869. Finally discharged on 5 April 1870 his character was described as 'good'; sold together with copied research.

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Estimate

Starting price
£110