Canada, Dominion. A Queen’s South Africa Medal to Pte. Crawford, Canadian Mounted Rifles

 A Queen’s South Africa Medal, in silver, rim impressed 57 PTE A. W. CRAWFORD. CANADIAN M. R., with SOUTH AFRICA 1902, TRANSVAAL and CAPE COLONY clasps, replacement ribbon, very dark patina, very fine. 

Footnote: Allan W. Crawford, no. 57, is on the Queen’s South Africa Medal Roll, serving with the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles. 

The 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles served in the later stages of the Second Boer War, mainly carrying out mobile patrols and counter-guerrilla operations against Boer fighters. As mounted infantry, they rode horses to cover large distances but fought on foot, helping protect supply lines, scout enemy positions, and take part in British “drive” operations that aimed to trap Boer commandos. Rather than major battles, their work focused on constant movement, reconnaissance, and wearing down resistance in difficult conditions.