The RCR Museum
The South African War 1899-1902
This conflict was the first overseas campaign for The Royal Canadian Regiment and the first major international war in which the regiment had fought. While by today's standards the battles resulted in few casualties, the soldiers faced other obstacles - dysentery, infected wounds, poor equipment and even poorer rations all of which contributed to numerous cases of illness and death.
Less than three weeks after Prime Minister Wilfred Laurier received a request for support from Great Britain, 1000 volunteers left for South Africa to serve for one year "if necessary." The war dragged on until 1902. Some 8000 Canadians enlisted and 242 died in the South African War.
A majority of Canadians fought in Canadian units under Canadian officers - a first for our nation and a precedent followed in later wars.
This display houses a scale model of the Battle of Paardeberg - a monumental battle for The RCR, remembered every February to this day. Also exhibited is a replica of Private Thompson's scarf of honour. The scarf, crocheted by Queen Victoria, is one of the rarest honours bestowed on a soldier of the Empire. Awarded to Pte. Thompson, it represents a unique distinction for a Canadian soldier.
- Regimental History - The South African War
- Regimental Silver Memorial - The South African War
- Roll of Honour - The South African War
Pro Patria