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Author :
Dave C George
Year :
2008
My books examine the ‘Man behind the Gun’. This is possible due to the Boer custom of naming their rifles, which adds a very personal touch to an otherwise nameless weapon. This practice was unique to the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. The Boer generals encouraged their men to name their rifles and some of the officers set an example by having their own weapons carved. The carvings range from highly ornate creations to the very basic . I endeavour to relate a brief service history about each soldier or burger. This includes the battles they fought in, if they were wounded, decorated or captured. Many of the Boers were sent overseas to POW camps. In these cases, they often continued to carve small items and mementos from wood, ivory and bone etc. Where possible I add a photo of the person and any other available post war details. I am passionate about recording as many of these historic weapons as possible.
Carvings from the Veldt - Part Two
Exceptional interest in Part One of ‘Carvings from the Veldt’ has uncovered many additional carved weapons and much encouragement to embark upon a second ‘follow-on’ edition. The new book features 306 new firearms: rifles, carbines and handguns used by both sides, the Boers as well as British and Colonial soldiers.
The hard covered book contains over 1,400 images (most of which are in colour) of carved and engraved weapons. In addition there are a further 25 farm maps, official forms and letters etc. There is also a selection of swords, bayonets, bandoliers, ammunition, medals, a large variety of unit badges and headgear worn by both sides. Included are two new chapters covering Anglo-Boer War re-enactor groups (in six countries) and Anglo-Boer war trench-art and carvings. (such as pipes and mementos carved in Boer POW camps.)
The service histories of Boers and soldiers are researched along with many previously unpublished original photos of groups of Boers and soldiers. Amongst the Boer weapons are four carved rifles that were used by famous Boer Generals. Also featured are 70 weapons that were used or souvenired by British and Colonial officers and troops (British, Canadians, Australians, South Africans and New Zealanders). This book is guaranteed to be of interest to a wide variety of collectors and military historians. The book is A4 size, hard cover and has 349 pages.
I have included a chapter on the large variety of 'Trench Art' and curios that the Boer prisoners of war (POWs) used to carve and make in the various POW camps.
Many of these items were sold and are highly collectable these days.
Order your copy by emailing david.george7@bigpond.com
You Tube Channel - Carvings from the Veldt
