Private Thomas Large 1263 99th Regiment

Posts : 3460 Join date : 2021-01-04

Part of an article from the Lynn Advertiser - Friday 17 September 1920. Thomas was greenkeeper at the Royal West Norfolk Golf Club

"He was an old soldier, and had an interesting army career. He enlisted in the 15th Reg. of Foot on 19th June, 1875, at Hull. He shot for and won his company's sheild at Preston. Lancs., was picked for Wimbledon to shoot for the Queen's Shield, but the Zulu War broke out: he volunteered, and was transferred to the 99th Regt, landing in Natal in 1879. He formed one of the relief columns at Rorke's Drift. One of his treasured possessions was a book picked on the battlefield at Isandhlwana. He was present at the capture of Cetewayo at Ulundi.
He served again in Africa in 1881. and went to Egypt the following year, landing 24 hours too late to gain the Egyptian Star. During the Great War he was a corporal in the local V.T.C., while his wife was working on munitions and of his five sons, three served in the army, one in the navy, and the youngest in the Sea Scouts. Of a kindly and courteous disposition, the whole village regret his death. The funeral was yesterday (Thursday).

Subject: Re: Private Thomas Large 1263 99th Regiment Sat Jul 09, 2022 8:09 am

Perhaps another article that highlights family folklore and traditions about their deceased relative. (There seems to be a few). Since it was 40 years after events the writer has no knowledge of the accuracy of what they are being told and copy verbatim.

I have no idea if he initially joined the 15th Foot but can confirm that he did not "volunteer" for the Zulu war. He was already in the 99th as listed in the October 1878 pay-list. Though correctly they did land in January 1879

Since the 99th were in Pearson's column I very much doubt he ever went near RD or Isandlwana and we know Cetshwayo was not captured at Ulundi. I'm not sure if any 99th were involved in the search for the King.

Bill

Posts : 3460 Join date : 2021-01-04

A little re write to make it more accurate. What do you think Bill?

"He was serving in the 99th when the Zulu War broke out and landed in Natal in 1879. He formed one of the relief columns for Lord Chlemsfords army. One of his most treasured possessions was a book given to him by another soldier who claimed it came fromt he battlefield at iSandlwana. He was present at the defeat of Cetewayo's army at Ulundi. He remained in South Africa until 1881"

Posts : 3379 Join date : 2009-03-03 Location : Devon

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Posts : 3460 Join date : 2021-01-04

Interesting Andy. He answered 'No' to any previous military service which dispels the 15th Regiment enlistment in 1875.

Posts : 1074 Join date : 2009-10-16

Hi All,
Electoral roll 1930, Thomas John Large and Nellie May Large Lynn Road, Rudham District, Norfolk, nothing after this date.
There is a Thomas J Large, Probably dying june Qtr 1932, in Epsom District Surrey. This is the only person/date that fits. But iam still doubtful.
Rai Keynshamlighthorse.

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