History Browser

A new rifling system was developed at the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield, consisting of five deep grooves that could withstand the intense heat generated by the cordite. The result was the .303 Lee-Enfield Mark I rifle, introduced to the Canadian Army in 1896.

Repertoire of resources pertaining to John McCrae, a doctor, teacher, and poet who served in both the South African War and the First World War. His famous poem "In Flanders Fields" can also be found here.

The Canadian government allowed individuals to raise private military formations to serve in South Africa. Lord Strathcona raised a regiment of mounted rifles under Sam Steele. The British also recruited over 1,000 men to serve in the British South African Police as mounted policemen.

Strathcona's Horse developed its own variant of a high leather boot with a sole that was intended for walking, and a laced instep that provided the wearer with greater flexibility and ease of movement for its service in South Africa. The Strathconas issued these boots to all members of the regiment, and not just to the officers.

Weblink provides a picture of the cemetary and a list of soldiers who are buried within the cemetery from the South African War.

The 12-pounder breech-loading gun that equipped the Brigade Division, Royal Canadian Field Artillery in South Africa replaced the 9-pounder rifled muzzle loading guns that had equipped Canada's field artillery units since the 1870s.

An article about the origins of the South African War and Canada's involvement in it. Includes reading list.

A second contingent of Canadian soldiers was offered to the British with better training and suitability for South African service. This contingent was composed of five field artillery batteries and two mounted infantry battalions. Canada’s first overseas Victoria Crosses were won by members of this group.

Weblink provides a picture of the cemetary and a list of soldiers who are buried within the cemetery from the South African War.

A short listing of popular and marching songs celebrating the Canadians who fought in the South African, or Boer War.