More than 16 million animals served in the First World War; including horses, pigeons, donkeys, elephants, dogs, tortoises, monkeys, camels…and even glowworms. Here are some of Richmond’s WW1 animals:
A horse receives treatment at a Veterinary in Etaples, 1916. (C) IWM Q557
Nancy the Springbok was the mascot for the South African Regiment. She was presented to the 4th South African Infantry Regiment in August 1915 and travelled with them through Egypt, France and Flanders. She died in 1918 and was buried with full military honours.
A baboon called Jackie became an official mascot of the 3rd South African Infantry Regiment. Jackie was a Chacma baboon, and was found by Albert Marr on his farm. When Marr joined the infantry he asked to bring Jackie along with him. The baboon was given a special uniform complete with cap, regimental badges, and his own rations! For three years Jackie accompanied soldiers on the Front Line in the trenches. He would even stand to attention, salute, and use a knife and fork.
Discover the animals who have been awarded the Dickin Medal , the highest award for animal bravery, in The Animal Victoria Cross by Peter Hawthorne (published by Pen & Sword Books).
‘The Springboks Attack in the Rear!’ Image Courtesy of Richmond upon Thames Local Studies Library & Archive
You’ve missed out goats. Taffy IV the goat, mascot of the Welsh Regiment even has a medal index card, and died on active service
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Excellent! I haven’t heard of Taffy IV – thanks for sharing!
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hi WW1 Outreach Coordinator – Pen & Sword Books have a title about Animal VCs: The Animal Victoria Cross. It’d be so good if you could feature it in this post! e-mail me @ digitalmarketing@pen-and-sword.co.uk. Here is a link to the product page! http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Animal-Victoria-Cross-Hardback/p/3709 Look forward to hearing from you! – Milly
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Hi Milly – thanks for sharing this book. I’m sure it would make a really interesting read as there are so many WW1 animal stories to share. I would be happy to provide a link. Daniella
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That’s fantastic! Thank you. If you want to review any books for us in the future contact me at digitalmarketing@pen-and-sword.co.uk and we can discuss further!
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