Introduction

History is about people. A few of them are famous but most are not. Kings, Queens, Popes, Politicians, Generals even footballers find themselves into the history books, but miners, factory workers, shopkeepers etc are seldom remembered.

For my Great Uncle, a long serving soldier, a man of simple tastes and outlook, his story for me speaks for the men who served in the Army during this period in history.

In time I will be adding to this blog the service career of my Great Uncle, from enlistment in 1897 to 1919 when he was discharged. It was quite a journey for this lad. The Connaught Rangers saw him serve from Ireland, the Anglo Boer War in South Africa, India, to the battlefields of Northern France.

My detailed research to date has covered the events surrounding several battles that the 1st Btn saw action in during the 1899 - 1902 Anglo Boer War with particular reference made to the Battle of Colenso in 1899 and the Battle for Terrace Hill in early 1900. Two epic battles that the Connaught Rangers as part of General Harts 5th (Irish) Brigade played a major but costly role in.

I appreciate these events took place over a century ago, but in comparison to the ever growing interest in the Great War, the South African campaign appears to have been totally forgotten about to this day throughout Ireland. You may think otherwise.

I hope this blog will raise people's awareness and educate you at the same time. I welcome any comments, opinions, additional information as I wish to learn more along the way too.