RECORDS OF THE DORSET IMPERIAL YEOMANRY - 1894-1905 ***ABW**

Very scarce small hardcover in the original red and purple cloth boards with embossed silver titles edited by Capt. M F Gage, published 1906. 266 pages. Illustrated with half tone and colour plates. 

The volume is arranged in three parts. The first is a regimental record from 1894 to August 1905. The second, (p. 75-148) concerns the Dorset Yeomanry in South Africa and part three relates to regimental uniforms and organisation of troop and squadrons from 1794 to 1905. The 26th (Dorset) Co. I.Y. arrived at the Cape in March 1900. During an active campaign lasting 16 months the Company served under various commanders in the Orange Free State and Transvaal, In April the Dorsets engaged in operations south of Bloemfontein under Generals Rundle and Brabizon, They were part of the force employed in the relief of Wepener and, for a short period, part of the garrison at Thaba'Nchu. In May the Company entrained for Kroonstad to join Lord Roberts' army in the northern advance. The force entered Pretoria on June 5th. The Dorset I.Y. were present at the battle of Diamond Hill from 11-14 June but were not engaged. At this time Yeomanry units were reorganised and hereafter the Dorsets often served in composite squadrons. From July 1900 to May 1901 the Company took part in various treks in the Transvaal under Generals Mahan, Clements, Cunningham and other commanders. On 13th December 1900 the Dorsets were part of Clements' force attacked at Nooitgedacht by General De La Rey. The British sustained severe casualties in the engagement. The Company operated in western Transvaal until recalled from active service in May 1901. Appendices include notes on equipment, a roll of the yeomanry who served in South Africa and a casualty list.

A good copy with foxing to the endpapers.