Edinburgh - Scottish Horse Boer War Memorial

On the North side of the Esplanade in front of Edinburgh Castle is a memorial to the soldiers of the Scottish Horse who lost their lives during the Boer War. It records the names 14 officers and 123 men who were killed.

Esplanade Edinburgh Castle
Scottish Horse Boer War Memorial

 In November 1900, Lord Kitchener authorised the raising of Regiment of Scotsmen in South Africa to support the British Army fighting the Boers. The Scotish Horse Regiment of three squadrons became operational on 4th February. Recruiting continued and the Regiment became six squadrons strong.

Recruiting was extended beyond South Africa with Volunteers from the United Kingdom and Australia making their way to South Africa. A second Regiment of five squadrons was formed. 

Scottish Horse South Africa

Scottish Horse South Africa

The Scottish Horse engaged in a guerrilla campaign launching raids on the Boers and destroying their farms. 

Scottish Horse attack at Rooiwal

Scottish Horse
Boer War Medal

During the Campaign Lieutenant William John English of the 2nd Scottish Horse was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions at Vlakfontein.

His citation read;

This officer, with five men, was holding the position at Vlakfontein on 3 July 1901 during an attack by the Boers. Two of his men were killed and two wounded, but the position was still held, largely owing to the lieutenant's personal pluck. When the ammunition ran short, he went over to the next party and obtained more; to do so he had to cross some 15 yards of open ground, under a heavy fire at a range of from 20 to 30 yards

Lieutenant W.J. English VC
2nd Scottish Horse

Anglo Boer War - Scottish Horse

The Scottish Horse was disbanded at Edinburgh Castle on 1 September 1902, after repatriating Australians and discharging South Africans.